Current Mariner Success Stories
Mrs. Cornelia Beriones, Junior Supply Officer
Mrs. Cornelia (Connie) Beriones has been sailing with Military Sealift Command for over 10 years, and has moved up from the entry-level position of supply utilityman to junior supply officer. Her desire is to advance to the position of purser.
Originally from the Philippines, Beriones joined the U.S. Navy in 1990. While sailing overseas, Beriones met some MSC employees who recommended she consider a career with MSC when she transitioned from active duty. She left the Navy in 1994 and was hired on with MSC in June of 1995. Beriones decided to join Military Sealift Command because it gave her the opportunity to put the skills she acquired while in the Navy to practice and continue to earn great benefits.
Beriones understands being promoted in MSC takes a lot of hard work. She has actively been working towards her goal of becoming a purser since being hired. While sailing as a supply utilityman, she put in extra time to help advance her career, which is advice that she would give to any CIVMAR wanting to advance in the organization. There are plenty of opportunities to learn new skills while underway. “When I was sailing as a supply utilityman, I would put in unpaid overtime helping the junior supply officer and yeoman storekeeper with receiving and stowing materials. I was not looking for payment for my time, as I knew in the long run, the extra time and effort would pay off,” stated Beriones. For those who can’t put in additional overtime while underway, Beriones recommends inquiring about the training opportunities that MSC offers. She has attended several supply training courses, which have helped her develop her supply and logistic management skills.
Even though hard work has helped her to obtain her current position, it has not been all work and no play. Beriones enjoys the shipboard life. She spends most of her time reading, exercising, and keeping in touch with her family in the Philippines and friends all over the world. She has also enjoyed her travel with MSC to Spain, Italy, Greece, Malta, France and Portugal.
While sailing on the USNS Saturn, Beriones met her husband who is also a CIVMAR. Although they don’t currently sail together but have shared many of the same experiences, such as their careers with MSC. Her husband, Mr. Marte Beriones, hired in 1998 as an engine utilityman and is now sailing as a third assistant engineer.
Beriones is currently sailing as a purser trainee. Her career goal of purser is in sight. She is thankful to all those who have helped her work towards attaining her goals with Military Sealift Command.