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Vansa, a fourth-year electrical engineering co-op student, has been employed with the Department of National Defence since 2022. A musician at heart and an engineer at mind, her goal is to work in the aviation industry to make air travel more efficient, sustainable and accessible. She is a longtime foodie and is always open to new cuisines and recipes.
As the sustainability coordinator co-op student from Real Property Operations Unit (West), I, Vansa Chang, eagerly applied for the University of Alberta – Canadian Students at Sea (CSaS) initiative, hoping for an adventure that would broaden my experiences. Little did I know, this experience would surpass all expectations and leave an indelible mark on my journey of learning and discovery.
Canadian Students at Sea Program with Royal Canadian Navy – HMCS Victoria
Photo supplied
Selected among 15 students, I embarked to CFB Esquimalt between April 14 -18, 2024. From the moment I stepped foot in the military base, I found myself fully immersed in a world of maritime engineering and the day-to-day life of the trades in the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN).
The CSaS program wasn’t just for sailing onboard Kingston-class coastal defence vessels; it was about understanding the intricate web of trades in the RCN, which plays a role in safeguarding our oceans and promoting our domestic security. Venturing beyond a hands-on trip at sea, we delved into other naval warships including a Halifax-class frigate and Victoria-class submarines. Additionally, we toured the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre Victoria, Duntz Heat, Fleet Diving Unit (Pacific), Naval Officer Training Centre’s Navigation and Bridge Simulator, Fleet Maintenance Facility and the Naval Electronic Sensors Testing Range (Pacific) to understand more about the Navy’s work ashore. Each excursion offered a glimpse of specific trades and provided invaluable insights into the dedication and expertise required to maintain the operations and goals of the RCN.
Canadian Students at Sea Program with Royal Canadian Navy – HMCS Edmonton
Photo by Vansa Chang
My experience with the CSaS program broadened my understanding with the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). Previous from the trip, I had greater prior experience with the Army’s conditions and working environment, mainly through my co-op position. The trip taught me that the culture in the Navy is distinct from the culture in the Army.
Canadian Students at Sea Program with Royal Canadian Navy – Zodiac
Photo by Vansa Chang
Through hands-on learning and meaningful interactions, the program solidified the connecting bridge between the U of A and the RCN – strengthening the bonds and both contributing to the promotion of both organizations. I give a special thank you that is extended to all participants who experienced this one-of-a-kind adventure and to those who made this outreach program possible, especially Lt(N) N. Zach Lipinski, Ashwin K. Iyer and Torrey Dance who made the entire experience engaging, informative and thought-provoking. All participants and I received an unforgettable experience that will be remembered for years to come.
Canadian Students at Sea Program with Royal Canadian Navy – Maintenance Facility
Photo by Vansa Chang
As I reflect on my time with the CSaS program, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all who made the journey possible. This wasn’t just learning about maritime engineering; it was about embarking on a voyage of discovery, camaraderie and personal growth – a journey that I will carry with me long after the waves have settled.