From the rink to the open ocean: Squamish’s Ryelin McCarten graduates from the Canadian Coast Guard Academy

June 12, 2026 - Defence Stories

Estimated read time - 1:49

SQUAMISH, B.C. - Whether gliding across the ice at the local rink or navigating some of the world's most remote waterways, Ryelin McCarten has always been drawn to movement, precision, and the water. This year, the Squamish resident reached a major milestone, graduating from the Canadian Coast Guard Academy's Navigation Officer Training Program as part of the Class of 2026.

McCarten moved to Squamish from California in 2012 and quickly became immersed in the coastal lifestyle that has defined much of her journey. Growing up near the ocean, her fondest childhood memories are centred on the water, paddle boarding alongside her mother and spending time aboard the family's small Boston Whaler, dropping crab traps and exploring the coastline.

Equally at home on the ice, McCarten has been skating since her preschool years. Her commitment to the sport extended beyond her own training, as she volunteered as a figure skating coach. She "practically lived" at the rink, balancing her own skating schedule with coaching duties and cheering on her brother at hockey games.

It was McCarten's father who first introduced her to the Canadian Coast Guard Academy, explaining the opportunities and benefits of the program. However, she says it was the encouragement and support of her entire family that truly gave her the confidence to pursue the path.

With four younger siblings and a large, close-knit family, leaving home to move across the country was no small decision. That challenge was compounded by the knowledge that the program would require two demanding eight-month sea phases spent aboard Coast Guard vessels.

"It was a huge step," McCarten shared. "But knowing my family was behind me made all the difference."

Her time at the Academy proved to be transformative. During her sea phases, McCarten spent months operating in the Arctic and crossed the Atlantic Ocean, sailing as far as Tromsø, Norway.

"Being able to see that much of the world while learning and working was incredible," she said. "It truly has been the adventure of a lifetime."

Following graduation, McCarten has been assigned to the Canadian Coast Guard's Atlantic Region. There, she will support their efforts in marine navigation safety, search and rescue, and marine pollution response on the East coast. She is eager to continue building her skills and explore even more of Canada's diverse and rugged coastline.

From small-town rinks in Squamish to international waters and Arctic ice, McCarten's journey reflects dedication, courage, and a willingness to embrace the unknown.