NEP Offers Challenge and Opportunity for S3 Gabriel Tremblay

For Sailor 3rd Class (S3) Gabriel Tremblay, joining the Naval Experience Program (NEP) was never about following tradition. It was about challenging it. 

“I come from a non-military background; I am not the typical sailor,” said S3 Tremblay. “Yet, I chose to join the Canadian Armed Forces because I saw it as a way to challenge myself and step out of my comfort zone.” 

He grew up in an environment where the military was often criticized for what it represents. But instead of accepting those assumptions, he wanted to see it for himself. Tremblay joined the NEP with a clear purpose: to push himself outside of his comfort zone and test his limits in a demanding, structured environment.

Once in the program, Tremblay quickly realized the experience would offer much more than he anticipated. From the very beginning, the NEP immersed him in the real day-to-day life of the Royal Canadian Navy—working alongside serving sailors, learning essential skills, and understanding what it means to be part of the naval community. 

“I joined, and I have no regrets,” he said. “This program allowed me to connect with genuine sailors actively performing the job, rather than just learning about it through a polished website description.” 

Tremblay said the opportunities available felt “limitless,” but only for those willing to pursue them. 

“The Canadian Armed Forces don’t hold anyone’s hand,” he explained. “But if you have the motivation to improve your situation within the institution, the resources and pathways for growth are available.” 

During his time in the program, Tremblay learned to sail and navigate, all while being paid. He emphasized how the program supported him in practical ways, from not having to pay for rent or food to having access to a gym whenever he wanted. 

“I’ve spent a year without paying for rent or food and have had free access to the gym whenever I wanted,” he said. “More importantly, I’ve met kind, supportive people who defy the typical stereotypes often associated with military personnel.” 

Despite his success in the program, Tremblay recently made the difficult decision to leave, at least for now. 

“The only reason I’m leaving is because I’ve found a once in a lifetime opportunity,” said S3 Tremblay. “However, I fully intend to return to the Reserves in the future.”

That opportunity led him to South Australia, where he now works in a remote school community. He says the experience would not have been possible without his military experience.

Now abroad, Tremblay reflects often on how his mindset has shifted because of the NEP.

“My time in the Canadian Armed Forces didn’t just give me skills, it helped shape a mindset that opportunities can be found anywhere if you’re willing to look for them,” he said.

He says the realities in his new community remind him of those faced by Indigenous populations back home in Canada—particularly around remoteness, community resilience, and cultural complexity.

“That perspective gave me the confidence to step far outside my comfort zone and take on a role in a remote school community in South Australia,” S3 Tremblay said. “I didn’t come here with a rigid plan, but rather with the openness to embrace where new experiences could lead.”

Tremblay says his journey of growth hasn’t ended; it’s only continuing in a new direction.

“It’s been a journey of discovery, and one that continues to unfold.”

The NEP offers participants like Tremblay a first-hand look at life in the Navy, from basic training to sailing experience, without the long-term commitment of a traditional contract. After completing the program, participants are offered the opportunity to choose a trade and continue their service with the Royal Canadian Navy, or carry their experience forward and explore new opportunities with the skills they’ve gained.