Profile: Robert Jinchereau

It’s smooth sailing for Canadians, thanks to Robert Jinchereau

Finding his calling

“After studying public communications and education in university, my greatest hope was to be able to teach and impart knowledge to lots of people. I have been truly lucky in that respect,” says Robert Jinchereau. He found his calling in the Canadian Coast Guard, part of Fisheries and Oceans Canada.

Now a supervisor with the Coast Guard’s Search and Rescue program in Québec City, every year from May to September Robert takes charge of students employed for the summer through the Inshore Rescue Boat Program that he administers. He mentors the students and helps to bring out their best qualities. These 17- to 25-year-olds become boating safety ambassadors throughout the province of Quebec. Armed with new skills, they save lives when they’re called on to rescue people from disabled craft, groundings and on-board fires.

More than just a job

Robert enjoys casting his “safety net” beyond Coast Guard personnel. He has also educated police officers, firefighters, city officials and pleasure boaters alike about safety procedures on the water. By now, as many as 5,000 people have learned from him.

A tireless volunteer, Robert is always eager to contribute to the well-being of fellow Canadians. Through the Centre international des femmes in Québec, he and his family help new immigrants—many of them refugees—adjust to the society and culture of their adopted country. He gives them moral support along with practical aid.

“I joined the Public Service to use my skills in programs that concretely touch the lives of Canadians,” says Robert. “I found a career that answered my desire to teach and share, to take important responsibilities and to work directly with community members. It’s extremely rewarding to contribute to saving lives.”

Looking to the future

And Robert is doing his bit to prepare the next generation of Canadians. For several years now, he has been visiting students in Quebec’s CEGEP colleges and going to job fairs.

“There’s a pool of candidates who are eager to hear about our exciting careers,” he says.

After 27 years, Robert’s passion is as strong as ever.

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