Sailor of the Second Quarter revolutionizes shipboard living

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A groundbreaking initiative by HMCS Ottawa Marine Systems Engineer (MSE) has set a new benchmark for quality-of-life improvements on Canadian warships.

Sailor 1st Class (S1) Michael Fung led a project to install nearly 200 120-volt power outlets in Ottawa’s Non-Commissioned Members’ mess decks. The initiative has earned him recognition as the Canadian Fleet Pacific Sailor of the Second Quarter.

“It’s an honour to get this recognition,” said S1 Fung. “As much as I love being the ‘gray man’, it’s important all the work our MSEs put in is recognized.”

The project, which took approximately 18 months from conception to completion, has set a new standard for shipboard accommodations. The solution addresses a long-standing frustration among sailors – the lack of convenient electrical outlets for charging personal devices in their living quarters.

The impact of this modification has been immediate and significant. Crew members can now easily charge phones, electric razors, and other devices from their racks, with some even using the outlets for small fans to manage heat in their messes. The improvement has been so well-received it’s being considered for fleet-wide implementation.

“This kind of outgoing effort is wonderful. It impacted all onboard HMCS Ottawa for Operation Horizon 2023 and it’s going to have impacts across our fleet, and across the Navy,” said Commodore David Mazur, Commander Canadian Fleet Pacific.

Before joining the Navy in 2018, S1 Fung studied to become an electrician, accumulating about 4,500 hours of commercial and residential work experience. His civilian experience proved invaluable.

“Everything was chosen with a focus on a marine environment,” he said. “All the cabling is low-smoke and designed with damage control considerations.”

S1 Fung procured the necessary components and did the installation during his free time while deployed with a core group of 8 to 12 of his shipmates, primarily electricians. The installation includes properly grounded robustly installed receptacle boxes, with devices created for industrial environments. The project also required extensive retrofitting of existing structures.

S1 Fung emphasized the project’s success was a team effort, crediting the support of his department and chain of command.

“I stand on the shoulders of giants when it comes to getting this award,” he said. “It never is just a function of one person… many helped along the way.”

The recognition comes with perks including a dedicated parking spot at CFB Esquimalt and consideration for Sailor of the Year. More importantly, it highlights the Royal Canadian Navy’s commitment to fostering innovation and improving the quality of life for its sailors.