EdUp Canada

On this special episode of the EdUp Canada podcast, Sea of Opportunities, host Michael Sangster sits down with Sailor First Class Mack, a Martech Electrical with eight years of Royal Canadian Navy experience. Broadcasting from the HMCS St. John's Halifax during their five-month deployment, Mack shares an honest, unfiltered perspective on what it's really like to maintain the complex electrical systems that keep naval vessels operational—and how this technical career builds skills that translate far beyond military service.

As a Martech Electrical, Mack is responsible for preventative and corrective maintenance on a wide variety of equipment across the ship. His journey from an Alberta kid with no clear direction to a skilled naval technician illustrates how structured training programs can transform uncertainty into capability. Mack's story challenges common assumptions about military careers while highlighting the flexibility and transferability of skills gained through Navy service—including pathways to red seal certification and the often-overlooked ability to focus without constant digital stimulation.

This conversation offers valuable insights for students considering career colleges, education leaders developing workforce programs, and anyone interested in understanding modern career pathways that combine hands-on technical training, stability, and purpose.

00:42 - What does a Martech Electrical actually do? Mack explains the preventative and corrective maintenance work that keeps naval vessels operational across a large variety of equipment

01:35 - The critical career decision point: Why Mack's next training course (Integrated Platform Management System) will determine whether he stays for another five years or pursues his red seal certification

02:40 - "Play the game": Essential advice for anyone entering a new career or training program—how to mentally prepare and persist through challenging early stages

04:15 - "Honestly, just that we exist": A powerful reminder about career awareness—why an Alberta native had to join the Navy to learn the Navy exists, and what this means for career education in Canada

05:15 - The unexpected skill: How naval service develops the ability to "cope with boredom" and break free from constant phone addiction—a competitive advantage in the modern workplace

Read the full transcript here: https://share.descript.com/view/XQwvN6LMEoE 

Explore a career in the Royal Canadian Navy⁠: https://forces.ca/en/naval-experience-program/

On this episode of the EdUp Canada Podcast, Sea of Opportunities, host Michael Sangster sits down with Petty Officer First Class Evans, Weapons Engineering Technician Manager aboard HMCS St. John's. With 22 years of service under his belt, Petty Officer First Class Evans shares his unexpected journey from the tech industry crash to a fulfilling naval career, managing complex weapons systems and ammunition while travelling the world.

01:30 The dual role: Managing weapons systems while handling ammunition logistics like accounting

02:00 A day in the life: Managing weapons systems, drone defence, and combat first aid on a modern frigate

03:30 From layoffs to leadership: How job insecurity led to 22 years of stable naval service

05:30 The training advantage: Naval qualifications that transfer to civilian careers and everyday life

07:00 Pride in service: Representing Canada as a sentry at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Read the full transcript here: https://share.descript.com/view/xgV6wj3AyKb 

⁠Explore a career in the Royal Canadian Navy⁠: https://forces.ca/en/naval-experience-program/ 

Join host Michael Sangster for a deep dive into groundbreaking research with one of Canada's most respected pollsters, Nik Nanos (Order of Canada, Chancellor of Carleton University). Fresh data from nearly 3,000 career college graduates reveals stunning employment outcomes and the urgent financial realities facing students who are reshaping their careers.

Key Findings

• 30% of graduates hired BEFORE finishing their program
• Over 80% employed in their field of study
• 60% find work within 90 days
• 75% of students working while studying
• 40% are parents balancing education and family

This isn't your typical education conversation. It's about agility, resilience, and how Canada's career colleges are meeting the workforce exactly where it needs to be.

Key Moments

[04:00] 🎯 80%+ Employment Rate Reveal

[05:00] The Different Student Profile: 75% Already Working, 40% Have Children

[10:01] 🔥 30% Hired BEFORE Graduation - The Stat Everyone's Talking About

[13:15] 💰 Financial Reality Check: 57% Depend on Student Loans

[19:00] "Only 1 in 4 Has No Financial Worries" - Walking Through a Real Classroom

[20:35] 📊 70% Earn Under $60,000: Why This Proves Market Fit

[23:00] 🕐 "Today is Back to School Day for Someone"

[30:00] 💻 CompTIA Cybersecurity Case Study: When Employers Call Asking for Graduates

Read the full transcript here: https://share.descript.com/view/9eUQRDxFdrO 

Listen to past episodes here: https://www.edupcanada.ca/

In this episode of the EdUp Canada Podcast's special series, 'Sea of Opportunities,' Chief Petty Officer Roger Dollimont from the HMCS St. John's shares his experiences and insights from his 24-year career in the Royal Canadian Navy. He discusses his role as the engineering chief of the Marine Systems Engineering Department, the nature of naval deployments, and the various skills and leadership qualities developed in the Navy. Dollimont also touches on the importance of adaptability and the diverse career opportunities available within the Navy. Additionally, he reflects on the evolving emphasis on family support within the Navy and provides advice for those considering a naval career.

01:16 Meet Chief Petty Officer Roger Dollimont

01:52 Life on Deployment

02:14 Skills and Training in the Navy

04:14 Navy Traditions and Daily Life

05:16 Advice for Aspiring Navy Members

09:02 The Changing Navy and Family Support

Read the full transcript here: https://share.descript.com/view/1aXen0VvI7K

⁠Explore a career in the Royal Canadian Navy⁠: https://forces.ca/en/naval-experience-program/ 

In this special episode of the EdUp Canada Podcast's 'Sea of Opportunities' series, host Michael Sangster interviews Sailor First Class Christinson, a cook on the HMCS St. John's. Christinson shares his motivations for joining the Royal Canadian Navy, emphasizing the prospect of early retirement and career stability. He explains the concept of a 'purple trade,' which allows for diverse postings across various military branches. The conversation covers the multifaceted nature of his duties, which include casualty clearing and managing non-food orders, along with the unique challenges of cooking on a ship. Christinson also highlights the Navy's supportive infrastructure and evolving environment. The episode concludes with Christinson expressing gratitude and sharing a greeting to his family back home.

01:05 Meet Sailor First Class Christinson

01:26 Understanding the Purple Trade

02:32 Life as a Navy Cook

03:38 Secondary Duties on Board

05:12 Challenges of Cooking at Sea

Read the full transcript here: https://share.descript.com/view/borBWjVL1O8

⁠Explore a career in the Royal Canadian Navy⁠: https://forces.ca/en/naval-experience-program/

In this episode of the EdUp Canada Podcast, Sea of Opportunities, host Michael Sangster interviews Sailor First Class Hennebury, a Boatswain on board HMCS St. John's. Hennebury talks about her role, which includes managing small arms and small boats, standing watches, and conducting general maintenance. She discusses the demanding 12-hour shift schedule and gives advice for those considering joining the Navy, emphasizing the importance of understanding the commitment and responsibilities involved. Hennebury also shares personal reflections on her career choice and expresses gratitude toward her loved ones and fellow Canadians.

01:00 Meet Sailor First Class Hennebury

01:38 Life on Board the HMCS St. John's

04:36 Advice for Aspiring Navy Recruits

Read the full transcript here: https://share.descript.com/view/rCDAgLxHk1V

⁠Explore a career in the Royal Canadian Navy⁠: https://forces.ca/en/naval-experience-program/ 

In this special episode of the EdUp Canada Podcast, host Michael Sangster speaks with Sailor Third Class Gillis aboard the HMCS St. John's. Gillis shares his experiences and the challenging yet rewarding nature of his dual roles as a cook and a casualty clearer on the ship. He discusses the importance of healthy meals, logistical hurdles, and the vibrant camaraderie within the Navy. Gillis also reflects on his journey from a small fishing village to a fulfilling career in the Navy, emphasizing the significance of stepping out of one's comfort zone. The episode sheds light on the structure, support, and educational opportunities available to Navy personnel, along with heartfelt messages to loved ones and fellow Canadians.

01:07 Meet Sailor Third Class Gillis

01:36 Challenges and Training in the Navy

02:35 Life on Board: Food and Nutrition

03:54 Logistics of Fresh Food at Sea

05:03 Joining the Navy: Personal Journey

05:33 Daily Life and Duties on the Ship

07:58 The Importance of Morale and Camaraderie

Read the full transcript here: https://share.descript.com/view/RvxaLyFDBx1

⁠Explore a career in the Royal Canadian Navy⁠: https://forces.ca/en/naval-experience-program/

This episode of the EdUp Canada Podcast’s special series, Sea of Opportunities, features Petty Officer Thomas Forrester, a cook on the HMCS St. John's, who discusses life on a naval deployment. Over a six-month period, crew members bridge distances from their families while maintaining healthy diets and exercise routines, navigating international supply chains for provisions, and adapting to different roles and responsibilities. Forrester shares the rewards and challenges of naval service, emphasizing the vast opportunities for career growth and the strong support system among crew members. He also highlights the personal fulfillment he gains from his work and extends thanks to his family for their support.00:57 Meet Petty Officer Thomas Forrester01:15 Life on Deployment: Challenges and Routines03:37 The Importance of Nutrition and Fitness on Board06:17 Career Opportunities in the Navy09:28 Balancing Family and Military Life

Read the full transcript here: https://share.descript.com/view/JWg0ZqYpELH

⁠Explore a career in the Royal Canadian Navy⁠: https://forces.ca/en/naval-experience-program/ 

In this episode of the EdUp Canada Podcast's special series 'Sea of Opportunities,' listeners get an inside look at careers in the Royal Canadian Navy. The discussion features Petty Officer First Class Conacher, a Sonar Operator aboard HMCS St. John's, sharing his extensive experiences and the diverse roles onboard. He highlights the travel opportunities, technological advancements in communication, and the various responsibilities sailors assume. The episode also delves into the importance of support staff onshore and advice for those considering a Navy career. Hear firsthand about the challenges and rewards of life at sea, from maintaining properties to dealing with emergencies, and the unique experiences of a Navy sailor.

01:37 Life and Challenges on Deployment

02:01 Technology and Communication at Sea

03:07 Career Journey and Experiences

04:21 Opportunities and Training in the Navy

08:10 Roles and Responsibilities on Board

11:19 Support Systems and Mail at Sea

Read the full transcript here: https://share.descript.com/view/wBGW1hAR0DE 

⁠Explore a career in the Royal Canadian Navy⁠: https://forces.ca/en/naval-experience-program/

In this special episode of the EdUp Canada Podcast, 'Sea of Opportunities,' Petty Officer Second Class Chad Elenath of HMCS St. John’s gives an in-depth look into life in the Royal Canadian Navy. The episode explores Chad's role as a Senior Watchkeeper, highlighting his responsibilities from maintaining the ship's main engines to managing a team. Chad discusses the challenges and rewards of a naval career, focusing on the skills learned and the camaraderie onboard. He also shares insights on how education within the Navy can set up personnel for post-naval success. Personal anecdotes reveal both the professional and personal aspects of naval life, including the impact on family and the historical tradition of the daily soup as a morale booster.

01:31 Interview with Petty Officer Chad Elenath

01:47 Roles and Responsibilities on Board

04:28 Challenges and Daily Life at Sea

05:50 Morale and Traditions on the Ship

08:28 Reflections and Final Thoughts

Read the full transcript here: https://share.descript.com/view/AvY0rjJlZ4a 

⁠Explore a career in the Royal Canadian Navy⁠: https://forces.ca/en/naval-experience-program/