Denis Hains

Denis Hains, a prominent leader in hydrography and hydrospatial matters, has played a decisive role in the global advancement of his field. His innovative approach—centred on strategic networking, cutting-edge technologies, and geospatial data—helps address climate challenges and better protect the blue of our blue planet.

A graduate in geodetic science from Université Laval, he spent over 35 years in the Canadian public sector where he held high-level leadership positions. As Director General of the Canadian Hydrographic Service (CHS) and Hydrographer General of Canada, he fostered a spirit of partnership and remarkable innovation, positioning CHS at the forefront of its field and strengthening its role in international research and development collaborations, notably in partnership with the private sector and academia.

Even after retiring in 2018, he remains an influential figure and key player in hydrography. As founder and CEO of H2i, a company specializing in hydrospatial matters, he is committed to building a safer, more efficient, and more sustainable blue economy by advancing strategic and tactical innovation in the hydrospatial field. He continues to serve as an international consultant and expert, contributing to the Nippon Foundation-GEBCO Seabed 2030 strategic initiative, among others.

Mr. Hains is a strong believer in knowledge transfer and collaboration and he is actively involved in mentoring the next generation through initiatives such as the Canadian Ocean Mapping Research and Education Network (COMREN) and the Université Laval hydrography and hydrospatial science summer school . He is committed to promoting the diversity of talent and raising the profile of professions in hydrography while also supporting community bathymetry projects among Indigenous communities.

In 2024 he received the prestigious Sam Masry Award from the Canadian Hydrographic Association in recognition of his contributions to the advancement of  hydrospatial science as a discipline  in Canada and internationally.

Université Laval is proud to award an honorary doctorate in geomatics sciences to Denis Hains in recognition of his exceptional leadership, his significant contributions to hydrography, and his ongoing commitment to the advancement of hydrospatial matters on a global scale.