Recruitment is now underway for the Summer 2027 Canadian Coast Guard’s Inshore Rescue Boat (IRB) Student Program. The program offers post-secondary students and Naval Reservists the opportunity to combine adventure, public service, and professional development in one of Canada’s most unique summer jobs. It is unknown if DEI will be applied to the program.
Throughout the summer, IRB crews play a critical role in maritime search and rescue operations at 25 stations from Canada’s West Coast, the Great Lakes, St. Lawrence Seaway, and East Coast. These highly trained students respond to emergencies involving disabled or capsized vessels, persons overboard, medical incidents, and other situations where mariners require urgent assistance. Each summer, IRB crews respond to approximately 1,000 search and rescue incidents or calls for assistance across the country.
“I believe this is the best summer job out there,” said one student crew member. “You learn to handle high stress and responsibility, work closely with others, and gain confidence in real-world situations. It is a very fulfilling experience.”
Another student highlighted the unique learning opportunities: “It provides valuable training in areas like small-crew teamwork, boat handling, and first aid. Being able to apply what we’ve learned to help people in real-world scenarios makes the experience rewarding.”
Full-time post-secondary students returning to studies in Fall 2027, as well as qualified Royal Canadian Navy Naval Reservists, are encouraged to apply. Parents and mentors looking for a meaningful summer opportunity for their post-secondary students can be confident the program offers valuable life skills, professional development, leadership training, and the chance to help save lives.
For many participants, the program provides far more than a summer job. For many participants, it also provides valuable experience and exposure to potential careers with the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG). Students gain hands-on search and rescue training, leadership experience, and opportunities to work alongside local emergency response partners while making a meaningful difference in their communities.
