Sailor Third Class Jason Thomson, past Naval Experience Program member

I learned about the Naval Experience Program during a time of turmoil in my life. As a professional in the theatre industry prior to the pandemic, I found myself in dire need of a lifestyle change. My outlook on life was grim when I applied, and I did not realise at the time how blessed I would become by deciding to answer the ocean’s call. My experience with the Royal Canadian Navy has been very positive for my mental health, and has set me up for continued socio-economic success.

The program showed me the stereotypes and preconceptions I had about the forceswere wrong. The members of the Canadian Armed Forces proved themselves to be honest, respectful people who reflect the positive aspects of Canadian culture. I was afraid of being an outlier due to my artist background. When I arrived, I found myself welcomed by photographers, gamers, musicians, athletes, family folks, and others who were sailors by trade but people with heart first.

The program has created an accessible environment to determine whether you like to work in the Navy. I was able to make mistakes and learn from them with positive reinforcement from my chain of command. By the end of the program, I completed naval flood and firefighting training, sailed for two weeks, and gained a thorough understanding of the scope of the available jobs through job shadowing. Despite being seasick, I found renewed passion in my career prospects within the logistics trades. The training programs have bolstered my confidence, and have provided me with a positive outlook on my career after years of persistent disruption.

During a time of rising housing unaffordability, the opportunity to live for a year on the base with free housing and food should get your attention. In addition to the personal wealth I have gained in friendships, new skill sets, and a broadened understanding of the country I live in, I have gained literal wealth. I believe this program is the perfect opportunity for a young person to learn how to thrive within the modern economy, which is increasingly more demanding every year.

The Canadian Armed Forces is in a state of turbulence. As with any employer, there are moments when patience and persistence are required. The Canadian Armed Forces is experiencing funding challenges and retention issues, while attempting to navigate the cultural shifts of the post-pandemic zeitgeist. The bleak outlook portrayed by media outlets has a semblance of underlying truth, but it is within these challenges that people like me find opportunities to thrive.

There are moments of occasional idleness and obligatory monotonous duty postings within the program, but these moments are quickly left behind as you become engaged throughout the courses and tossed around by the ocean when you sail. For people who wish to embrace the challenges we face as a country, and feel a sense of civic duty, I cannot overstate how wonderful the Naval Experience Program is.

Jason is currently transferring to the naval reserves to continue part time as a Financial Services Administrator.