Stories

There are many great stories about how NSCC has helped students pursue their passion and achieve success. But student success does not come without hard work, determination and a strong desire to succeed. Learn more about the experience of our marine students and faculty, the challenges they’ve overcome and the advice they have for those considering a career in the industry.

Instructor, Captain Arran Shepherd looking into the distance with the ocean in the background.

Guiding the next generation of seafarers Captain Arran Shepherd’s journey from cadet to captain began on the shores of Pictou, Nova Scotia, inspired by Coast Guard vessels in the local port. Now an instructor at NSCC’s Nautical Institute, he shares how hands-on training, real-world experience and a sense of adventure shaped his rewarding career at sea.

From whale watching to bridge watch Hannah is a fifth-generation seafarer whose childhood was filled with fishing, exploring the coast and joining her grandparents’ whale-watching tours. Drawn to the sea’s unpredictable beauty, she’s now pursuing a marine career through NSCC’s Bridge Watch Rating program.

Michaela, Marine Navigation Technology student in a classroom doing chart work at a desk

Charting the course With no previous experience at sea, Michaela was nervous to join NSCC’s Marine Navigation Technology program—but with hands-on learning and supportive instructors, she’s charting the course to a new world she loves.

Julianna Lucic on a simulated deck looking through a navigation device

A desire to explore the world Julianna is following in her grandfather’s footsteps and has her sight set on a career at sea. A desire to explore the world while maintaining work-life balance is what drew Julianna to NSCC’s Marine Navigation Technology program.

Two marine engineering students standing side by side, one pointing at a screen

Pursuing a passion Michaela Julian’s passion for engine work and a desire to return to her Mi’kmaq community to work on a fishing fleet led her to NSCC’s Marine Engineering Technology program.

Jay Julian sitting close to floor with his hands on an engine

Hard work, determination and a desire to succeed Jay Julian had experience working on large ships and enjoyed being on the water. A desire to expand his seafaring career and provide for his family led Jay to NSCC’s Marine Engineering Management Technology program.

Charles Maclean fixing engine aboard ship

Career change leads to travel and adventure at sea A career change for, NSCC alumni Charles Maclean, leads to travel and adventure at sea.

From Sea Cadets to Marine Engineering fulfilling her dream to work at sea From Sea Cadets to Marine Engineering, NSCC alumni Kelsie Maclean, shares her journey to a successful career at sea.