In a move set to bolster Canada’s standing in the global ocean tech arena, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster has unveiled a groundbreaking $2.5 million initiative aimed at revolutionizing how marine operations are planned and executed. The newly launched project, titled Tech Companion AI Search and 3D Visualization, seeks to blend artificial intelligence with immersive visualization tools to streamline maritime maintenance and boost industry performance.

“Advanced AI technologies are at the forefront of innovation in the ocean sector in Canada and globally. Canada’s Ocean Supercluster is excited to announce the $2.5M Tech Companion Project, which will tailor existing AI technologies to the ocean sector, ensuring the continued development of ocean AI, creating ocean industry jobs, and increasing Canada’s global competitiveness all while prioritizing environmental stewardship,” detailed Kendra MacDonald, CEO, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster.

At the forefront of this ambitious project is Nova Scotia-based Modest Tree, an advanced software development firm known for its innovative approach to training and simulation. Collaborating with them is Babcock Canada, a major player in marine support services with operations in Halifax and headquarters in Ottawa. Of the total project cost, approximately $1 million is being funded by the Ocean Supercluster, with the remainder contributed by the project partners.

“We are pleased to announce this Ocean Supercluster project and to collaborate with Babcock Canada to advance how technical data is accessed and understood in the ocean industry by leveraging AI and immersive 3D technology. By integrating interactive visualization, intelligent search, and heatmap visualizations, we’re enabling faster decision-making, improved efficiency, and greater operational confidence that not only impacts the project partners but the ocean economy in Canada,” expressed Emily Smits, CEO Modest Tree.

“Babcock Canada is delighted to continue working with Modest Tree alongside the Ocean Supercluster. This partnership and investment demonstrate how the Industrial and Technological Benefits policy can enable small-medium technology enterprises to continue growing capability and capacity in key areas,” stated Tony March, CEO, Babcock Canada.

The Tech Companion platform is a digital tool that merges technical documentation with 3D modeling to support maintenance activities. By incorporating real-time insights from Babcock and leveraging their operational expertise, Modest Tree will refine the platform’s capabilities to better address the unique needs of the ocean industry.

Key developments in the project will focus on three core areas:

Visual Maintenance Heatmaps:

Interactive 3D heatmaps will provide users with an intuitive overview of current, past, and future maintenance tasks. This function enables rapid filtering of data and improves long-term planning by predicting potential operational issues before they arise.

Enhanced Data Interaction:

Advanced 3D visual representations of marine equipment will be directly tied to work data, allowing users to engage with complex information more effectively. The platform offers a suite of tools—such as zoom, highlight, and clickable components—to make navigating technical details more intuitive.

AI-Powered Search for Marine Applications:

A specialized AI search engine will help users quickly locate technical content across documentation, training materials, workcards, and 3D models. This functionality is expected to dramatically improve access to mission-critical information that is often buried in dense, disconnected data sources.

Beyond the technological advancements, the project is expected to generate over 30 direct jobs in sectors like engineering and software development. More broadly, it supports the larger national effort to position Canada as a leader in the global blue economy.

The Tech Companion initiative not only showcases Canadian technological talent but also reflects a focused commitment to transforming how marine operations are supported—paving the way for smarter, more efficient maritime industries.