In January 2017, a college course on instrument technology was launched at Northwest Community College in Prince Rupert. The course introduced students to marine sensor technology, with an emphasis on underwater cabled observatories and shore-based coastal weather stations.

Students learned about the diversity of marine sensors, why and how they are used, and the challenges and opportunities of operating technology in a marine environment. Students designed and tested sensor apparatus in the lab and in the field, analyzed sensor data, and planned their own field missions. 

Due to its success, a version of this course is now being developed for Nunavut Arctic College.