Officer of the Order of Canada

• Awarded on: May 8, 2003
• Invested on: December 12, 2003

For over 30 years, Fred Smithers has contributed to the economic development of Nova Scotia. This visionary businessman and entrepreneur is the founder, president and chief executive officer of Secunda Marine Services, an international leader in the marine transport industry. He champions the employment of Canadian crews on his ships and is committed to developing young sailors through Secunda's cadet training program. He also played an instrumental role in developing Canada's first offshore oil field. In addition, the Shaw Group, Saint Mary's University and the Metropolitan Halifax Chamber of Commerce have benefited from his leadership and business acumen.