Celebrating International Women’s Day

Three female sailors with HMCS Calgary were asked a series of questions in recognition of the March 8 International Women’s Day.

CalgaryKucher2
Lt(N) Sara Kucher, MARS Officer

How long have you been in the CAF/RCN?
I have been in the CAF since July 1999; I was a CIC Officer in Alberta and B.C. prior to becoming a MARS Officer in 2011.

What made you join the CAF/RCN?
I wanted to support my local cadet corps in the best way that I knew how and in order to be the Training Officer for my cadet corps I had to become a CIC Officer. As time progressed I was able to foster my love for travelling and my desire to work on the bridge of a ship. After moving to Victoria I chose to become a MARS Officer and realize a dream that I’d had since I was a teenager.

What is your favourite thing about serving in the military?
As cliché as it sounds I love the opportunities I have to travel and get a glimpse of the world and other cultures. However, on a day-to-day basis I absolutely love the fact that I get to meet and work with so many new and interesting people. I’ve been able to grow as a person and as a leader from my experiences with the people that I work with; each person has taught me something new and I look forward to meeting many more people in the future.

What is your biggest challenge?
My biggest challenge is finding a balance between work and family. I love to sail, but I also love watching my children grow and helping them to become the amazing individuals that they are and will be.

Do you have any advice for women joining the CAF?
My advice to women is no different than my advice to anyone joining the CAF – just be you, everyone has something to offer and once you find what you’re good at and what makes you happy, keep at it. Never stop learning. Professional curiosity is your number one asset and may lead you and your career in a direction you didn’t imagine possible.

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CalgaryElliott
WO Laurie Elliott, Senior Cook

How long have you been in the CAF/RCN?
I have been in the CAF for 17 years and I’ve served with the RCN for the past three years.

What made you join the CAF/RCN?
I wanted to work in an environment that provided opportunities for advancement and allowed for future travel and ability to move throughout my career.

What is your favourite thing about serving in the military?
I’ve loved my time onboard HMCS Calgary. Ship life is challenging but also fun and rewarding.

What is your biggest challenge?
Juggling home life with work commitments can be hard sometimes. Having strong family support is very important.

Do you have any advice for women joining the CAF?
Take advantage of all the amazing opportunities that will come your way. Be open to new postings/taskings as you will often be surprised how much you enjoy learning new things.

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CalgaryAllen
AB Elysia Allen, RMS Clerk

How long have you been in CAF/RCN?
Since February 2010.

What made you join the Forces?
I wanted a challenge and a diverse career with lots of opportunity.

What is your favourite part of serving in the military?
Enjoying the opportunities I wouldn’t have had in a civilian position – playing against the Canucks Alumni in the “Heroes for Hockey”, travelling the world, to name a few.

What is the biggest challenge?
Working with other women (smile).

Do you have any advice for women joining the CAF?
Have fun. Challenge yourself. Embrace the opportunities offered, and see the glass is always half full.

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  1. J. E. Christopher Moriah, S.LT.(Ret) says:

    Always a treat to read some RCN news!

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