MSE Tech awarded for dedication to shipmates and RCN
By Trident Staff
Master Sailor (MS) Stephen Goulding, a Marine Systems Engineering Technician aboard His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Robert Hampton Gray, was recently named Canadian Fleet Atlantic’s latest Sailor of the Quarter in recognition of his leadership, professionalism and dedication to both the Royal Canadian Navy and the wider community.
His colleagues and superiors say that MS Goulding has distinguished themself through a commitment to developing others, providing mentorship and hands-on training to his shipmates through a busy period of trials and workups. His efforts have helped ensure personnel are confident and prepared to meet operational demands while contributing to the ship’s overall engineering readiness. He’s also demonstrated a strong commitment to the readiness of the ship itself, including responding to shipboard issues after hours and while off duty to help ensure the vessel remains ready for its taskings.
MS Goulding is known as a morale booster among the crew, with a leadership style that has helped foster trust and cohesion among teammates.
“MS Goulding exemplifies the highest standards of leadership, with an exceptional commitment to training and developing the next generation of sailors through deliberate mentorship, hands-on instruction, and a genuine investment in the success of Engineering Watchkeepers, Roundspersons, and duty engineers,” wrote Commander Brian Henwood, HMCS Robert Hampton Gray’s Commanding Officer, in nominating MS Goulding for the award.
“Their leadership not only strengthens internal unit cohesion, morale, and readiness, but also extends across the Arctic and Offshore Patrol Vessel fleet, where they actively share expertise, reinforce standardized practices, and enhance interoperability and collective effectiveness.”
MS Goulding’s recent completion of the Primary Leadership Qualification provided further recognition of those qualities. He was awarded the Commandant’s Shield, presented to the candidate who best demonstrates leadership excellence throughout the course.
Outside of military duties, he’s also been recognized as an active community member. MS Goulding contributes to local youth sports as a hockey referee, and has also volunteered personal time as a research participant with Dalhousie University’s Psychology Division.
The Sailor of the Quarter award was presented aboard HMCS Robert Hampton Gray on August 10 by Commodore Jacob French, Commander Canadian Fleet Atlantic, and Chief Petty Officer 1st Class Paul Greene, ahead of the ship’s recent departure for Op NANOOK and eventual transfer to the West Coast.
