Hailey Kempe
London,ON
Summary
Skilled and experienced Head Sailing Instructor with over seven years of progressive experience teaching CANsail levels 1–4, leading youth programs, and coaching advanced sailors. Recognized for strong leadership, excellent communication, and the ability to create safe, structured, and enjoyable learning environments on the water. Experienced in both youth and adult sailing instruction, instructor mentorship, fleet maintenance, risk management, and aligning programming with Sail Canada’s standards.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Lifeguard
YMCA
08.2021 - 09.2025
- Maintained constant surveillance of multiple pool zones, ensuring the safety of all patrons in adherence with Lifesaving Society standards.
- Performed preventative lifeguarding by identifying hazards early, intervening calmly, and correcting unsafe behaviour.
- Responded to emergencies with confidence, executing rescues, first aid, and CPR procedures as required.
- Conducted daily safety checks, water-quality testing, and equipment inspections to ensure a safe aquatic environment.
- Completed detailed incident reports, behavioral notes, and risk assessments.
- Collaborated with a team of guards to maintain consistent scanning patterns and communication across the deck.
- Supported new guards by modelling proper protocols, reinforcing professionalism, and promoting a positive team culture.
- Demonstrated strong decision-making, calm under pressure, and the ability to manage high-stress situations.
Head Sailing Instructor
Erieau Yacht Club
06.2022 - 09.2024
- Oversaw the full junior sailing program, supervising instructors, volunteers, and daily operations while ensuring full adherence to Sail Canada safety and teaching standards.
- Taught CANsail 3 & 4, delivering advanced instruction in racing techniques, heavy-weather sailing, rig tuning, sail trim optimization, right-of-way rules, and tactical decision-making.
- Designed and implemented weekly lesson plans aligned with Sail Canada’s curriculum, including progression tracking and individualized instruction.
- Developed and taught adult sailing lessons, tailoring coaching to varied experience levels and learning styles.
- Supported, guided, and mentored junior instructors, providing ongoing feedback, modelling best practices, and ensuring consistent delivery of high-quality instruction.
- Led daily safety briefings, supervised on-water rescues, and managed incident-prevention protocols.
- Coordinated regattas and performance training sessions.
- Handled boat repair, equipment maintenance, and fleet inventory, including damage reporting, rigging adjustments, and ordering required parts.
- Acted as primary communication link with parents, club members, and program directors.
Sailing Instructor
Erieau Yacht Club
06.2019 - 09.2021
- Instructed CANsail 1 & 2, teaching foundational skills such as tacking/jibing, capsize recovery, points of sail, launching/landing, sail trim, and balance.
- Led beginner camps and one-on-one coaching sessions.
- Assisted with race training, program logistics, and safety boat operations.
- Reinforced a positive, supportive atmosphere that encouraged learning and confidence building in new sailors.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
Western University
London, Ontario04-2028
Skills
- Advanced dinghy sailing (CANsail 1–4)
- Adult & youth sailing instruction
- On-water safety & risk management
- Regatta coaching
- Boat repair & fleet maintenance
- Instructor mentorship & leadership
- Curriculum & lesson planning
- Strong parent & staff communication
- Emergency response skills
- Behaviour management & youth engagement
Languages
English
Certification
- CANsail Instructor Certification (Sail Canada)
CANsail 1/2 Instructor
CANsail 3/4 Instructor - National Lifeguard (NLS) — Lifesaving Society
- Swimming Instructor Certification — Lifesaving Society
- Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC)
- Boat Safety Course Certification
- Standard First Aid & CPR-C
Timeline
Head Sailing Instructor
Erieau Yacht Club
06.2022 - 09.2024
Lifeguard
YMCA
08.2021 - 09.2025
Sailing Instructor
Erieau Yacht Club
06.2019 - 09.2021
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
Western University