SLt Morin: From the RCN to McGill

Navy News / June 18, 2021

Sub-Lieutenant (SLt) Frédérique Morin is an intelligence officer with Her Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Radisson, the Naval Reserve Division located in Trois-Rivières, Quebec. Originally from Nicolet, Quebec, she has been wearing her Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) uniform for over three years now.

“As I’m always up for a challenge, I was looking for a work environment that would help me develop my language skills, my leadership qualities as well as my physical fitness—three key elements in the Canadian Armed Forces.”

Despite her busy schedule, the RCN was able to offer SLt Morin a part-time job that would allow her to continue her studies and her many social and sports activities.

“While at Cégep, I chose to join the RCN to take advantage of incredible opportunities for learning and personal and professional development with the ultimate goal of enrolling in the Faculty of Law at McGill University in Montreal. Immediately after graduating from Cégep de Trois-Rivières, I had the opportunity to start training as an intelligence officer, which ultimately helped me become perfectly bilingual and develop my discipline and academic rigour—qualities that earned me acceptance into my dream program.”

SLt Morin truly feels that she has contributed to the well-being of Canadian society.

“I often have the opportunity to assist local communities. Whether during Operation Lentus or Operation Laser, I’ve been able to meet with colleagues from across the country and work in cooperation with civilian authorities and communities to address real and pressing issues on the ground. So, the satisfaction I get from my job with the Canadian Armed Forces is unparalleled.”

And her experiences in the RCN have been varied and truly memorable.

“In 2018, when I began my journey with the Royal Canadian Navy, I was still very uncomfortable with the naval environment in general. With encouragement from my chain of command, I ended up having the opportunity to go to British Columbia and spend two weeks on an Orca-class ship. This was a very formative experience for me, as I was surrounded by competent and professional sailors who guided me through my learning. I also built friendships that I still cherish to this day. In having the opportunity to go out and visit the ports we would dock at, we were able to discover Canada’s west coast while forming bonds and creating unforgettable memories.”

Choosing the RCN is an excellent decision for students interested in combining their studies with work.

“I sincerely believe that the RCN is the best work environment for a student because it allows you to meet new people, learn a second language, stay active, travel and develop a professionalism and rigour that will serve you well even outside the organization. All you need to do is take advantage of the opportunities, as the doors are wide open in the RCN.”