Membership Benefits

Membership Benefits

Membership Benefits of the ICS

Becoming a Member of the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (ICS) provides access to a wide range of professional benefits designed to support your career in the maritime industry:

  • Professional Qualification

The ICS qualification is recognized globally as the gold standard in the shipping industry. Through a structured education program, you can earn the professional designations MICS (Member) or FICS (Fellow).

  • Comprehensive Industry Education

ICS offers a detailed syllabus covering all key areas of commercial shipping, including dry cargo and tanker chartering, ship operations, port agency, maritime law, logistics, and finance. These courses equip you with both in-depth knowledge and practical skills.

  • Global Recognition

Whether you’re starting out or advancing in your career, ICS membership signals to employers and clients that you uphold the highest standards of professionalism and competence.

  • Continuing Professional Development (CPD)

The ICS Head Office in London offers member-exclusive webinars covering a wide range of topics in the maritime industry. These sessions are led by industry experts from the ICS’s international network, who share their knowledge on timely and relevant issues.

MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS with the Canada Branch

As a Member of the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (ICS), you have the opportunity to join a local branch—such as the Canada Branch, which operates through three chapters, on the West Coast (Vancouver), Central Canada (Saskatoon) and East Coast (Montreal).

The Canada Branch actively supports ICS members, students, and maritime professionals by being active and engaged in their respective local maritime communities.   The Canada Branch is pleased to offer additional Membership Benefits for all Canada Branch members.

Free Entry to ICS Canada Branch Events

The Canada Branch is active nationally with events being held in all three of its Chapters; Vancouver, Saskatoon and Montreal.  Events such as lunch & learns, speaker events, field trips, networking opportunities for both students and professionals and the annual Dry Bulk & Commodities Conference.  ICS Members who have paid their annual membership fees and are in good standing receive free entry to all Canada Branch events.

Annual Dry Bulk & Commodities Conference

The West Coast chapter of the Canada Branch in Vancouver hosts an annual conference focused on Canada’s dry bulk sector and its related industries. This flagship event has become a key fixture on the maritime community’s calendar, known for delivering high-quality content and insightful discussion.

Featuring a diverse lineup of speakers from across the industry, the conference covers timely and relevant topics that reflect current market trends. Sponsors consistently find value in being associated with this well-regarded industry gathering.  And attendees travel from across North America, underscoring the event’s broad appeal and reputation.

Lunch & Learn Speaker Events

The ICS Canada Branch hosts in-person speaker events that cover a range of topics relevant to the maritime industry. These events feature expert speakers engage in a small, classroom setting to share insights and industry knowledge on timely and important issues. Attending these events provides valuable learning opportunities and helps you stay ahead in the industry—equipping you to handle complex challenges and make well-informed decisions.

Student & Industry Connection Events

At the Canada Branch, we believe ICS students are our most valuable investment. We focus on building meaningful connections between students and the industry through unique opportunities—such as job fairs, industry networking events, and informal social gatherings—to support their professional growth and career development.

Local Professional Networking Opportunities

The Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (ICS) serves as a vital conduit within the maritime industry, bringing together professionals from all sectors. We recognize networking as a key asset to career and community development. Through social nights, field trips, and the Dry Bulk & Commodities Conference, ICS creates opportunities for meaningful connections and professional growth.