InnovMarine

Harnessing the power of AI for ship maintenance, helping reduce the RCN’s negative impact on the environment, and even assisting companies in navigating complex ITB obligations are some of the many ways InnovMarine is contributing to the success of Canada’s defence programs through the use of their digital solutions.

BY JAMES CARELESS

Based in Levis, Quebec, InnovMarine provides cutting-edge digital solutions to meet the Canadian Armed Forces’ (CAF) needs in current and future programs. This is vital at a time when the technological complexity of modern warfare is rapidly increasing, and timely given the CAF’s ongoing process of procurement and forces renewal.

“Our practical software and training enhance data access and efficiency across the vessel lifecycle,” said Melanie DeYoung, InnovMarine’s Director of Innovation and Value Proposition. “With over a decade of expertise, we’ve become a trusted partner in the Canadian defence sector, particularly in supporting the National Shipbuilding Strategy (NSS). Our innovative digital tools — like ShipConstructor, CMPIC, and QuickBrain — help streamline shipbuilding processes, improve efficiency, and facilitate data-driven decision-making. Additionally, as a small yet impactful team, we are committed to enhancing defence shipbuilding and maintenance through cutting-edge solutions and strategic partnerships.”

HARNESSING THE POWER OF AI

Artificial intelligence (AI) is arguably the most important software advance in recent years. InnovMarine is harnessing the power of AI to drive its suite of technical products and services, which have been specifically designed to meet the CAF’s unique needs. By doing so, the company is helping the CAF to better defend Canada in an increasingly dangerous world.

“For instance, tools like InnovMarine’s QuickBrain incorporates AI to analyze and classify defects during maintenance, enhancing accuracy and speed while reducing downtime,” DeYoung told CDR. “We also provide consulting, training, and technical support to ensure these technologies are implemented effectively, allowing our customers to focus on critical missions with the confidence that their supporting digital infrastructure is optimized for success.”

InnovMarine recently became an IBM Partner Plus member, in order to expand the company’s strengths in AI. “Joining IBM Partner Plus as both a reseller and build partner has opened up exciting opportunities for InnovMarine to integrate advanced AI into the marine defence industry,” DeYoung said. “Using IBM’s portfolio of watsonx AI products, we aim to revolutionize ship design, operations, and maintenance.”

In saying this, Melanie DeYoung has very specific ideas about taking InnovMarine’s use of AI to the next level. “AI enables us to analyze complex datasets with unprecedented precision, enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of design processes,” she told CDR. “In operations, AI can predict and mitigate risks, ensuring smoother functionality. For maintenance, AI tools embedded in platforms like QuickBrain can detect defects faster and more reliably, minimizing downtime and ensuring vessels remain mission ready.”

Leanne Clarke is IBM Canada’s Ecosystem Sales Director. “AI has the potential to transform the marine defence industry by addressing complex challenges in ship design, operations, and maintenance,” she said. “Through our partnership with InnovMarine, we’re enhancing decision-making, improving operational efficiency, and ensuring fleet readiness. By prioritizing transparency, reliability, and secure data practices, we are building solutions that the marine defence sector can trust as it embraces the future of AI-driven innovation.”

HELPING THE ENVIRONMENT
ONE SHIP AT A TIME

InnovMarine is applying its digital expertise in creative and diverse ways. A case in point: The company has launched a greenhouse gas reduction project in support of the National Shipbuilding Strategy. This initiative will help the Royal Canadian Navy’s next generation of ships have less impact on the natural environment.

“The Intelligent Marine Vessel Optimization Framework for Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions (IMOG) project, in collaboration with Elomatic and UBC, focuses on improving early-stage ship design to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. InnovMarine is contributing its expertise in digital shipbuilding to the IMOG project, ensuring the practical application of advanced technologies and methodologies to the NSS. Specifically, the project combines computational fluid dynamics (CFD), generative AI, and emissions data to create a holistic framework for optimizing ship performance and environmental impact. InnovMarine’s role is to bridge cutting-edge research with real-world shipbuilding practices, thereby advancing Canada’s National Shipbuilding Strategy and addressing global decarbonization goals.”

HELPING NAVIGATE ITB OBLIGATIONS

The Canadian government’s decision to massively increase defence spending is good news for defence companies, but only if they have the know-how to navigate Canada’s demanding procurement process. To facilitate this, InnovMarine recently launched a new operating unit called InnovConsultants. It is being led by Melanie DeYoung.

“InnovConsultants specializes in assisting organizations to navigate the complexities of the Industrial and Technological Benefits (ITB) policy to maximize their potential for economic growth in Canada,” DeYoung explained. “Our services encompass training, strategic planning, and continuous support to help businesses fulfill their ITB obligations and generate value. We work with a diverse array of entities including small and large businesses, non-profits, post-secondary institutions, and charities, to identify opportunities for collaboration within the ITB framework. By increasing awareness and aligning their clients’ capabilities with ITB policy requirements, InnovConsultants aims to foster partnerships and streamline efforts to meet contractual obligations.”

InnovConsultants’ purpose is to equip clients with the knowledge and skills to succeed in the Canadian procurement process. “At the core of our methodology is the mission to educate organizations about the ITB policy, dispel misunderstandings, and create mutual benefits,” DeYoung told CDR. “InnovConsultants’ objective is to help companies perceive ITB obligations not as burdens, but as opportunities for growth and innovation in Canada. Our vision for ITB consulting encompasses driving technological advancements and aligning investments with Canada’s defence priorities. This ensures the policy can unlock significant economic and industrial growth through collaboration and strategic alignment while protecting Canada’s sovereignty.”

EXPANDED SPENDING IS GOOD NEWS

Melanie DeYoung is optimistic about the impact of expanded military spending in Canada. “The increased Department of National Defence (DND) budget is a strong signal of Canada’s commitment to maintaining a robust defence infrastructure,” she said. “This growth will drive further opportunities for innovation and modernization in the defence sector, including advancements in shipbuilding technology and sustainability practices.”

“InnovMarine is poised to play a key role in this evolving landscape,” she concluded. “By offering cutting-edge digital solutions, AI integration, and supporting research initiatives, we aim to help our customers achieve their strategic objectives. As a trusted partner, we see ourselves contributing significantly to the success of Canada’s defence programs and enhancing the industry’s global competitiveness.”

James Careless is CDR’s Ottawa Bureau Chief