The Maple Leaf

My Role in the CFDS features military and civilian personnel and occupations throughout the Defence Team. Featured profiles use real-life stories to illustrate the dedication, excellence and professionalism of personnel and employees in their day-to-day jobs under the purview of the Canada First Defence Strategy.

Kinh Pham: Modernizing the Navy

It was just 30 years ago when Kinh Pham came to Canada as a 12-year-old refugee. Today he works as the Command and Control System Test and Trials Engineer on the Halifax-Class Modernization – Frigate Life Extension (HCM-FELEX). This project will contribute to the modernization of the RCN, and to its readiness to take on future challenges.

“My goal is to contribute to the growth of Canada as much as I can,” Mr. Pham says. “My brother and I received a lot of help from Canadian people and the government when we came here, so being a public servant gives me the chance to give back to Canadians.”

Kinh does give back in a big way; he is part of a team that is responsible for the coordination, execution, and assessment of requirements testing for the new Combat Management System (CMS). “I am fully engaged in the test and trials process,” he explains. “I am involved not only in determining how and where the CMS can be tested, but also in witnessing the conduct of the trials and assessing the verification of requirements.”

Working in a position that must address highly complex technical requirements means that Mr. Pham remains well-challenged on a regular basis. “CMS can be thought of as the brains of the ship, so the requirements are complex and wide-ranging in terms of technical coverage,” he says. “I work closely with naval personnel as well as suppliers to work through these complex requirements.

“When I look back on my career, HCM-FELEX will certainly be a highlight. I am very fortunate to have the opportunity to see it through from beginning to end. This project will help the Navy to be able to meet future challenges.”

One of the main priorities of the Canada First Defence Strategy is to ensure that the CF has the equipment and infrastructure to face all future challenges. From his humble beginnings as a child refugee, Mr. Pham has certainly come a long way to be an important part of achieving this goal.

“DND is a great place to work because DND offers many exciting technical challenges,” he says. “If you have a goal and you know what you want to do with your career, this is the place to be.”