From helm to heat: Scott Leslie answers the call
Scott Leslie has spent his career navigating challenges at sea, but this summer he faced a very different test on land as a volunteer firefighter on the frontlines of a wildfire near Miramichi, N.B.
A Chief Officer of three years with Atlantic Towing’s Ports and Coastal group, Scott is a dedicated member of the team with a commitment to safety and service. It’s a commitment that runs deep and extends to his community. Outside of his maritime career, Scott has volunteered as a firefighter since the age of 14.
“I’ve always been someone who naturally takes the lead,” said Scott, whose instinct to help out has since extended beyond fighting fires.
“Over the years, that grew into teaching,” he added. Scott is now a certified instructor through NBCC (New Brunswick Community College). He trains large groups and runs in-house sessions and professional seminars.
“The goal is always the same: keeping people safe, whether on a boat or at a fire scene.”
When Scott was called to a Miramichi-area wildfire this summer, he had no idea how severe it would become. He spent 15 days on site, unsure of how long he would be there, in conditions he described as the most extreme experience of his life. There were over 700 people on site, with crews from across Canada and the United States.
“For me, it’s just what I do,” he said. “I’ve been doing this since I was 14. I don’t think much of it anymore, but I know others are appreciative.”
When Scott is called to a fire, all background logistics are handled by the Atlantic Towing head office team so he can respond quickly without facing roadblocks and operations aren’t impacted. It’s a clear example of Atlantic Towing’s commitment to its people and how the company prioritizes the greater good, making space for its employees to serve where they’re needed most.
Scott’s story shows that leadership and service often start early and grow stronger with time. Whether on the water or the fire line, his commitment to safety and community never wavers and is a true example of answering the call when it matters most.
About Atlantic Towing
Headquartered in Saint John, N.B. and with offices in St. John’s, N.L.; Dartmouth, N.S.; Victoria, B.C. and Point Fortin, Trinidad and Tobago, Atlantic Towing Limited specializes in the provision of diverse marine services including port tug services, coastal towing, offshore oil and gas exploration and product support.
Its world-class vessels are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and experienced, versatile crews. Both crew members and land-based personnel operate with safety, quality of service and teamwork top of mind. The company is Green Marine certified. Atlantic Towing is a member of the J.D. Irving, Limited family of companies.
