I am not one to be confined to a 9 to 5 job in an office dealing with the same work every day. I had friends who chose careers with the SAF and I thought the Navy would be a suitable choice for me, as nothing could be more dynamic than working on board a ship.
I am in charge of the command and control systems and navigation systems of the ship. Essentially, the command and control systems help to make sense of the dynamic three-dimensional battle situation, identifying and managing air, surface and sub-surface threats. The navigation systems, using radar, aid the crew in the navigation of the ship.
I think the list is very long… From the operations that we conduct daily knowing that they have a part to play in protecting our waters, to the many ports of call we visit, the many different roles that you can assume in your career, and the unmatched views you enjoy out at sea.
I used to be indecisive, soft-spoken and unsure of what I want. Now, I have a department under my charge, where I am entrusted with the responsibility to make critical decisions. This has helped me learn how to speak up and defend my stand.
I was given the opportunity to be part of the task group commanding a multinational force to conduct anti-piracy operations in the Gulf of Aden. I got to sail on board a US destroyer for three months. It was a real eye-opener as I got to liaise with the navies of many different countries.
I admit that it can be tough to strike a balance between work and family. I am lucky that I have a husband who understands my job and is supportive of what I do. When sailing, I stay in contact with my family through the Internet and satellite phone. The Navy also helps plan activities that include family members to help enhance family bonding and also to allow them to better understand our jobs.
