No life like it: Navy kicks off recruiting drive in St. John's
Marine Careers Expo 2024 kicks off on Friday and runs till Saturday at Harbourside Park in St. John's. Organizers say there are several vacancies in the marine industry and hope to attract younger talent. (Todd O'Brien/CBC)
On Friday, The Royal Canadian Navy set sail on a month-long national recruitment campaign at the Marine Career Expo in St. John's.
The Canadian Marine Careers Foundation (CMCF) has partnered with several public and private sectors in the marine industry to host its second recruitment drive to promote careers at sea and on shore.
The drive begins on the east coast at Harbourside Park before venturing off to Quebec.
The Navy says it's seeking candidates to fill roles in engineering, mechanics, and IT as it embarks on a push to modernize its fleet.
"The technical traits are in high demand," said the Royal Canadian Navy Lt.-Cmdr. Lucas Pang.
While the technical aspect of naval service is a key focus of the recruitment drive, Pang also emphasized the unique lifestyle that comes with it.
"The only experience [Canadians] have is watching a movie on the Second World War," said Pang.
"We certainly do not live like that."
The Marine Career Expo runs for two days in St. John's, and will also feature the Canadian Coast Guard, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Marine Atlantic and a range of companies who specialize in marine and ocean research.
Pang says this is the second recruitment drive but the industry is growing and this is one of many outreach events the Navy hosts throughout the year.
"It's important for Canadians to understand what the navy does … what the tax money pays for," said Pang.
Challenges and opportunities
"Recruitment in the marine industry has been a challenge," said Darrell Mercer, corporate communications manager with the Marine Atlantic.
Mercer says the corporation is participating in the career drive to attract young people to fill a range of positions.
With many of them offering benefit packages, including health and dental coverage, Mercer says the company hopes to appeal to a new generation of workers on the east coast.
Darrell Mercer, corporate communications manager with Marine Atlantic, says the company has several vacancies, especially for people with technical expertise. (Todd O'Brien/CBC)
Mercer says young expo attendees should know about the diverse career options available in the industry, especially in Newfoundland and Labrador, where the maritime sector has historically been a strong source of employment.
"This province has been a great spot for careers in the marine field," said Mercer.
However, Pang says life at sea can be demanding, especially during long deployments.
But a career in the Navy can also offer a chance to serve and protect and be part of a global mission.
"You make lifelong friends … it's a rewarding career when you think back," he said.
Pang says the individuals who join the Navy go through rigorous training sessions, so having a a strong commitment can make all the difference.
The navy recruitment journey will sail through November in different parts of the country after its initial launch in St. John's.
For those considering a career, Pang offers a simple message: "If you have a desire for adventure … like they say, you join the Navy, you see the world."
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