Commander Teri Share commands HMCS Margaret Brooke, an Arctic and Offshore Patrol Vessel (AOPV) designed for operations in some of the most challenging maritime environments in the world. She leads a crew responsible for sovereignty patrols, international deployments, and presence operations in the Arctic — a role that places operational leadership, crew welfare, and national representation on a single platform.
Share’s interest in the Navy grew from a lifelong connection to water and exploration. As she approached graduation, she considered careers ranging from engineering to environmental sciences before choosing the Regular Officer Training Plan.
The opportunity combined structured education with a profession built on responsibility and teamwork — elements she saw as defining a meaningful career.
Over time she advanced through the Naval Warfare Officer occupation, serving aboard multiple ships and on many international exercises. The steady progression through operational roles reinforced a leadership philosophy centred on competence and trust: credibility at sea depends on preparation and the confidence of the crew rather than authority alone.
One of the defining moments of her command came when HMCS Margaret Brooke crossed the Antarctic Circle — the first Royal Canadian Navy ship ever to do so. Operating in remote, ice-laden waters required coordination, planning, and sustained crew cohesion. For Share, the achievement was less about the milestone itself and more about the collective professionalism that made it possible.
Throughout her career, she has seen the influence of those who served before her. Rather than focusing on barriers directly, she emphasizes continuity — each generation widening opportunity slightly more than the last. Leadership, in her view, carries responsibility not only for mission success but also for the culture experienced by those serving.
She describes command primarily as stewardship: maintaining standards while ensuring sailors feel valued and supported. The close environment of a ship means morale and operational effectiveness are inseparable, making communication and consistency essential leadership tools.
Her advice to younger members is direct — commit fully, contribute actively, and take pride in professional competence. Confidence, she believes, grows naturally when preparation meets responsibility.
Following a period of high operational tempo, HMCS Margaret Brooke will enter refit while Share begins second-language training, continuing her professional development in preparation for future leadership roles.
Share was jointly nominated by Commodore Jacob French and Rear-Admiral Josée Kurtz, Esprit de Corps Women in Defence Award recipient (2021).
