From Sea Cadets to the helm: Bailee David graduates from Canadian Coast Guard Academy

June 15, 2026 - Defence Stories

Estimated read time: 2:09

Cape Breton, N.S. - For Bailee David, a career on the water has been a lifelong calling, shaped by family tradition, community support, and years of dedication. This year, David proudly graduated from the Canadian Coast Guard Academy's Navigation Officer Training Program as a member of the Class of 2026, marking the beginning of her professional service with the Canadian Coast Guard.

Originally from Arichat, Cape Breton, David moved to Sydney at the age of 17, where her connection to the broader Cape Breton community continued to grow. Her earliest memories of maritime life date back to childhood, when she attended local Sea Cadet events alongside her father, Jarrod, a former Sea Cadet commander and Royal Canadian Navy veteran.

"I knew from a very young age that I wanted to be part of the Academy's Officer Training Program," David said. "The Sea Cadet Program played a big role in guiding me there."

A proud member of the 235 Arrow Royal Canadian Sea Cadet Corps, David credits the organization with shaping her into the person and aspiring leader she is today. Known for her outgoing personality, she fondly recalls playing sports, marching in parades, and building lifelong friendships through Cadets, experiences that strengthened her confidence, discipline, and teamwork skills.

Another important influence in David's journey was her stepfather, Gary Pretty, himself a graduate of the Canadian Coast Guard Academy. Pretty first introduced David to the program and its opportunities, sparking her interest in the profession. Today, that connection comes full circle, as Pretty now works as a Search and Rescue instructor at the Academy.

With strong family backing and community encouragement, David completed four demanding years of academic study and sea training. Like many Officer Cadets, she faced challenges along the way, but perseverance and hard work carried her through.

"I'm proud of how far I've come," she said. "I'm really happy to have put in the work to get here."

David's first posting as a Navigation Officer will take her to the Canadian Coast Guard's Western Region. She is eager to apply the skills and knowledge she gained over the past four years, while continuing to learn and grow through hands-on operational experience. There, she will support the Canadian Coast Guard's efforts in safe navigation, search and rescue and response to marine pollution on the West coast.

Reflecting on her journey, David says she didn't always realize how deeply connected and supportive her Cape Breton community was, and that support made all the difference.

"The Sydney community was always there to lend a hand," she said. "That's something I'll always carry with me."

From Sea Cadet events in Arichat to a national role safeguarding Canada's waterways, Bailee David's journey is a powerful example of how mentorship, dedication, and small-town support can help chart a course toward success. As she embarks on this next chapter, her hometowns can take pride in knowing one of their own is serving Canadians from coast to coast.