Local waterways inspire Napanee Amherstview graduate’s path to the Canadian Coast Guard

June 12, 2026 - Defence Stories

Estimated read time: 2:00

NAPANEE / AMHERSTVIEW, ON - Growing up along the shores of Lake Ontario, Chantelle Lasher always felt at home on the water. That lifelong connection has now carried her across oceans and into a career of national service as a graduate of the Canadian Coast Guard Academy's Navigation Officer Training Program, Class of 2026.

Lasher, who calls both Napanee and Amherstview home, credits her upbringing near the water for planting the seeds of her future. Some of her fondest childhood memories involve time spent boating and paddling with family, fostering a deep appreciation for Canada's waterways that continues to shape her career today.

"That connection to the water was always there," Lasher said. "Being on or near the lake has been part of my life for as long as I can remember."

Lasher's path to the Canadian Coast Guard was supported by a strong network of mentors and family members. Her parents encouraged her early interest and continue to offer guidance, while educators at Loyalist Collegiate and Vocational Institute played a key role during her formative years. Her grade 12 physics teacher and guidance counsellor helped her explore post-secondary options and recognize her potential in a maritime career.

A pivotal experience came when Lasher completed a co-op placement with the Amherst Island Ferry. Following the placement, she was offered a deckhand position; an opportunity that provided invaluable hands-on experience working on the water.

"The ferry crew taught me seamanship and workmanship skills that I still carry with me today," she said. "Their support and willingness to teach made a huge difference."

Those skills served her well at the Canadian Coast Guard Academy, where Lasher's training took her far beyond the familiar waters of eastern Ontario. During her time in the program, she sailed in the Canadian Arctic aboard the CCGS Sir Wilfrid Laurier and crossed the Atlantic Ocean to Norway on the CCGS Louis S. St-Laurent, experiences few Canadians ever have the chance to undertake.

Following graduation, Lasher has been assigned to the Canadian Coast Guard's Atlantic Region. She is eager to continue gaining experience, contribute to marine safety, search and rescue, and marine pollution response operations on the East Coast. She is also excited for the opportunities to explore new parts of Canada whenever time off allows.

"I'm excited to keep learning, to do my part for Canada, and to see where this career takes me," she said.

From the quiet lakes of eastern Ontario to Arctic waters and international voyages, Chantelle Lasher's journey reflects the power of community support and the importance of following lifelong passions. As she begins the next chapter of her service, her hometowns can take pride in knowing that one of their own is helping protect and navigate Canada's vast and vital waterways.