Memorial University’s Fisheries and Marine Institute (MI) partners with Royal Canadian Navy to launch the Civil Military Leadership Program Initiative.
Rear-Admiral Chris Sutherland, deputy commander, RCN, and Dr. Robert Shea, vice-president (Marine Institute) pro tempore, signed an MOU via video conference that will offer all CAF Reservists the opportunity to fulfil a portion of their leadership training through a university program that will grant a certificate of leadership recognized across civilian, commercial and governmental sectors.
This new partnership will offer Primary reservists in training a unique opportunity to achieve academic goals, military training and professional and personal development at the same time.
Breakout Educational Network’s persistent effort in initiating and promoting the concept was recognized by Dr. Shea referring to the initial discussions that began in 2013 between Memorial and Breakout.
Amazing Value
“Our sailors have long been and continue to remain the core of the Royal Canadian Navy’s success,” said Rear-Admiral Sutherland. “This partnership with Memorial University will provide amazing value to our reservists, providing them the opportunity to receive recognized academic credits while at the same time improving their leadership skills. Opportunities like this directly contribute to the building of a robust naval defence capability in Canada.”
“Memorial University’s Marine Institute has a long history working with the Royal Canadian Navy to develop and deliver outstanding education and training opportunities for its personnel,” said Dr. Vianne Timmons, president and vice-chancellor, Memorial University. “We are pleased to expand our collaboration through our new undergraduate certificate in leadership for sailors to develop their professional competencies to become influential, dynamic leaders in their field.”
Historic relationship
The CMLPI is to be delivered online and be made available to both officers and non-commissioned naval reserve members. Details about enrolment and course specifics will be announced in the future.
The historic relationship between the RCN and MI dates back to the 1990s when the university was the home for full motion bridge simulator training.
In past years, the university was also home to a Marine Engineering Technician and Naval Combat Systems Technician programs for the RCN.
Breakout Educational Network is a registered educational charitable organization with a mandate to produce materials on public policy. The Canadian National Leadership Pilot Initiative was conceived to reconnect young Canadians with their Armed Forces.