June 21, 2025
Earlier this year, the Indigenous Pathfinder Initiative was successfully launched at Seaspan. Indigenous mentoring is a valuable initiative that supports Indigenous workers by fostering positive relationships and providing guidance. Spearheaded by Indigenous Liaison and Recruitment Coordinator George Michell, this Seaspan-owned program empowers Indigenous employees and prospective employees by connecting them with Indigenous mentors who offer guidance, encouragement and support.
“We are incredibly proud to launch the Pathfinder Initiative as it represents not only an opportunity for growth and skill-building but a deep commitment to supporting Indigenous employees,” said George. “Mentorship is about more than just teaching technical skills; it’s about fostering a sense of community, sharing knowledge, and empowering individuals through meaningful connection. Through the Pathfinder Initiative, we hope to create a legacy of support, resilience, and success that will benefit Indigenous workers for generations to come.”
The program has been rolled out with seven fully trained mentors, including Hitam Treadwell of Seaspan Marine. A proud member of the Squamish Nation, Hitam was the first person to be approached by George and asked to become a Pathfinder Mentor.
“I immediately thought it was a good idea,” Hitam said. “I completed the online training and have been a mentor ever since. I feel honored and lucky to be part of this program. It’s incredibly necessary and I’m grateful it’s available to my peers.”
Because of his tenure at Seaspan, Hitam can use both his lived experience outside of the yard, but also within the yard, helping newcomers get the lay of the land, answering any questions, and offering a friendly face in an initial sea of strangers.
“I love talking about the program, it’s one of my favorite things to do and any time I get to do that, is a standout moment,” he said. “When people engage with the program, it shows they are buying into it, and they support it.”
The mentors also help to facilitate tours in the yard for prospective Indigenous employees, acting as ambassadors for both the company and the Pathfinders program.
“The relationship starts at that first meeting. When we meet folks, they can see that we are still on the tools, still tradesmen – we’re equal to them,” Hitam said. “They know that when they start at Seaspan, they already have a friendly face to greet them. I always make an effort to show them my office during the tour and tell them to come and find me if they get the job.”
The mentors are easily identifiable by the striking patches they wear on their coveralls or PPE vests. Designed by Raven Hillenbrand from the house of Ts’awl’aks Raven/Ganhada Tribe of Gitxaala Nation, the patch features an Orca as the guardian of the sea, protectors and representative of leaders with a strong sense of direction; and a moon, providing guidance and protection.
The Pathfinder Mentors are already making a positive impact at Seaspan, helping people navigate paperwork, successfully transition to full-time employment, and providing a friendly face to talk to in the yard. From the amazing feedback already received, we look forward to growing the program even further.