14/08/2026
Every promotion tells a story of dedication, perseverance, and growth.
Kerby Garcia's journey from Able Seaman to Third Officer is a powerful reminder that career progression at sea is built through hard work, continuous learning, and the courage to pursue bigger goals. Through the CMA Ships Ratings to Officer Program, he turned ambition into achievement and proved that persistence truly pays off.
with CMA Ships
CHARTING A NEW COURSE: FROM ABLE SEAMAN TO THIRD OFFICER
Career progression at sea is rarely an easy journey. It demands commitment, discipline, and the courage to embrace new challenges. For Third Officer Kerby Garcia, the path from Able Seaman (AB) to Junior Officer was built on determination, perseverance, and a steadfast belief in his own potential. Today, his success stands as a shining example of what can be achieved through the CMA Ships Ratings to Officer Program.
Kerby's journey with CMA Ships began as an Able Seaman. Although he already held an Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch (OIC-NW) license, he continued to gain valuable experience on deck while waiting for the opportunity to advance.
"I joined CMA Ships as an Able Seaman. Since I already held an OIC license, the company offered me the opportunity to join the Ratings to Officer Program to help me step up to my next role," Kerby shared.
Driven by a desire for professional growth, Kerby set his sights on becoming a licensed officer. Like many seafarers pursuing career advancement, he understood that the transition would require dedication and sacrifice.
"I wanted to move forward in my career and grow professionally, which is why I pursued the officer's license. The main challenges were the hard work and long hours spent reviewing and preparing for the qualifications," he recalled.
Despite the obstacles, Kerby remained focused on his goal. His determination only grew stronger with each challenge he encountered, knowing that every step forward would bring him closer to realizing his ambitions.
A key factor in Kerby's success was the consistent support he received from CMA Ships throughout his journey. Far beyond simply providing opportunities, the company actively encouraged him to pursue his advancement and complete the requirements necessary for promotion.
"CMA Ships played a vital role in my success. At the end of every contract, they pushed me to process my requirements for the program and were always ready to support me," he said.
The road to becoming a Third Officer was not without setbacks. Kerby candidly shared that he needed three attempts before finally achieving his goal.
"It actually took me three attempts to finally pass, but throughout that entire journey, they never stopped helping me."
His experience reflects one of the core values behind CMA Ships' commitment to professional development—that persistence, coupled with the right support system, can turn challenges into success stories.
Now serving as a Third Officer, Kerby carries with him the lessons learned during his years as a rating. Rather than distancing himself from his beginnings, he views his experience as an Able Seaman as the foundation of his leadership.
"It is incredibly humbling to stand on the bridge with the stripes of a Third Officer, but my heart overflows with pride knowing that every bit of this promotion was earned through the sweat, calluses, and hard labor of my time as an Able Seaman."
His years on deck gave him a deep appreciation for the work performed by ratings and shaped the officer he strives to become.
"Having experience in tough deck shifts taught me to always respect the crew's labor from the bridge. While I am deeply honored to wear this new uniform, I stay grounded by remembering where I began."
For fellow Able Seamen who dream of becoming officers but hesitate to take the first step, Kerby's message is both encouraging and practical.
"Dreams are within reach here. Always remain proactive, believe in your capabilities, and ask for a promotion when you know you deserve it."
He also emphasized the importance of utilizing the support available through the company.
"The preparation and transition process may be overwhelming, but here you will be surrounded by an incredibly supportive team—from the back office to the bridge—that is ready to guide you."
Above all, Kerby believes that a willingness to learn is the key to long-term success.
"Maintain a strong willingness to learn because the skills you cultivate during the formative rating years are the very foundation of your long-term success."
Kerby Garcia's journey demonstrates the transformative impact of the CMA Ships Ratings to Officer Program. By investing in the development of its people, CMA Ships empowers dedicated seafarers to build rewarding careers and achieve their professional aspirations.
From the deck as an Able Seaman to the bridge as a Third Officer, Kerby's story is a powerful reminder that with perseverance, continuous learning, and the right support system, every seafarer has the opportunity to chart a new course toward success.
with CMA Ships
