S2 Alice Laing: RCN is a really close team

Navy News / July 22, 2021

Sailor 2nd Class (S2) Alice Laing is from Windsor, Ont., and has been serving with the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) for just under three years.

“I joined the Royal Canadian Navy to get real and unique experiences abroad, as well as to learn skills in communication and Information Technology.”

S2 Laing is a Naval Communicator at the reserve unit Her Majesty’s Canadian Ship Hunter in her home town of Windsor. Currently she is employed as the Coxswain’s underwriter, a unique position requiring a high degree of organizational skills, attention to detail, administrative capabilities, and the ability to be discreet and process sensitive information.

“My job is very important to me, as it's a large part of my life. Not only did it offer very good money straight out of high school, but it really feels like you're working with a team.”

With the RCN, S2 Laing has found a sturdy educational and career path for herself, with opportunities for growth and adventure.

“The biggest challenge I faced was transitioning from male to female while in the Forces. I was initially extremely scared that it'd single me out or interfere with my career.”

“I overcame this challenge by being open and honest with my chain of command. Once I worked up the courage to tell them, my Chain of Command and my shipmates were extremely supportive. I don't think I'd have gotten that same level of support at any other workplace.”

S2 Laing explains the best parts of being in the RCN are the people and the community.

“I've had civilian jobs where I was friendly with my coworkers, but in the RCN I really feel like I can rely on the person next to me. It doesn't matter if they're male or female, older or younger - there's a level of trust there that there isn't present at other workplaces.”

S2 Laing’s most memorable experience with the RCN thus far has been undergoing Basic Military Qualification (BMQ), a three-month long, highly intensive introductory training course.

“My most memorable time in the RCN would definitely be (BMQ). We went from a bunch of strangers to a really close team, and I had never experienced anything like that.”

Some other highlights of her career include unique traveling opportunities within Canada and abroad.

“I had never left North America, and suddenly I was flying all the way out to Norway, getting to experience a different culture and climate, all because of the RCN.”

S2 Laing is outgoing and adventurous: “I'd say the most unique thing about myself is my willingness to try new things.”

Since joining the RCN, S2 Laing explains that she has learned a number of new things and continues to seek out new knowledge and skills.

“I've learned a number of coding languages, Morse code, and IT skills. The most recent skill I've started learning is knitting.”

Her advice to others considering a career with the RCN is to “take the jump. There's nothing to lose in trying, and there's so much you could gain from it.”