Opportunity often presents itself in unexpected ways. For me, opportunity came in the form of a part-time job when I was in Grade 11.
Compared to many of my peers in high school, my employment was not a usual or typical job like retail sales or a food service-based job. It was a job, which upon reflection, opened a world of possibility for me. I became a sailor in the Naval Reserve.
As I entered Grade 12, it was great to have a job that offered an array of skill development such as leadership and teamwork, while allowing flexibility in my schedule to focus on my studies. I did not have to worry about finding a job as I was guaranteed summer employment which involved travel to such places as Halifax, Victoria, and of course, time at sea!
In many respects it was the leadership, teamwork and communication competencies I attained in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) that helped shape my success in my civilian vocation. For so many reasons I highly recommend that high school-aged students consider the many career pathways that exist in the CAF today. Whether army, air or sea, there is an array of part-time and full-time opportunities to serve; and through service there is great reward and adventure!
Commencing in February 2019, HMCS Nonsuch, which is one of 24 Naval Reserve units across Canada, will be offering a great opportunity for high school students. A Naval Reserve Co-op Program (NRCP) will offer two basic training modules for students who meet the entrance requirements. This part-time, after-school program will offer a variety of meaningful training for students including first-aid, leadership, drill, and an opportunity to go to sea on a minor war vessel. In many ways, it is a paid opportunity to test drive the reserves. That is correct, this is a part-time job that offers competitive wages and benefits. What a fun way to earn Work Experience credits, too!
If you are a high school student who is seeking to experience a new and rewarding challenge, if you enjoy travel, meeting new people, and growing as a leader, then why not check out this exciting program. Students must meet all entrance requirements which may be found on the forces.ca website. Those students completing the NRCP will be able to deploy for summer training in 2019. Beyond that, the opportunities for diverse part-time and full-time employment abound. There is even a tuition reimbursement plan of up to $2,000 per year for post-secondary studies.
St. Albert area high school students are invited to find out more when the Naval Reserve recruiting team is at the St. Albert Centre Mall on Saturday, Oct. 13, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There will also be an open house at HMCS Nonsuch (11807 Kingsway Ave., Edmonton) on Saturday, Oct. 27, from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Students and parents are encouraged to come check out the details of the NRCP. Inquiries can also be made to the Nonsuch recruiting team at 780-973-4011, ext. 7130.
The motto of HMCS Nonsuch is a campis ad maria which means from the prairie to the sea. The NRCP is designed to provide such an experience for local students. When I was in high school the reserves helped me discover and explore pathways to my future success. I have developed lifelong friendships and gained a skill-set that has opened many doors. Perhaps a career in the CAF might offer a similar experience for you? In my humble opinion, it is worth your consideration!
Tim Cusack is an educator, writer, and member of the Naval Reserve.
