Accounting brought me to the military, not the other way around. I knew I wanted to become a designated accountant, but had no aspirations to join the military. I saw a finance clerk posting and thought I was applying for a civilian position; I didn't completely understand that I would be joining the military.

My first course was basic training, where I learned to be a soldier. I put on my uniform and never looked back. I started as a logistics officer, while earning my undergraduate degree, and eventually my legacy CGA designation.

My designation helped me move into the roles I wanted. I've worked as a commanding officer, financial manager, and comptroller'to name a few'both in Canada and overseas. My postings overseas are the highlights of my career and a big part of why I enjoy serving in the Canadian military.

Working in the military, we change positions quite often. Based on our skills and education, we move around; it's part of who we are. Currently, as manager of accounts processing, I manage a team of 35. We manage expense claims, travel claims, and payments out of the corporate headquarters in Ottawa.

My first mission was in Bosnia in 2002. As a finance officer, I served an operational function. Thankfully, I was able to continue my studies, even though my job took me outside Canada.

I finished the legacy CGA program while posted in Afghanistan in 2005. I was able to take my mid-tour break to attend my admission to membership ceremony.

In Afghanistan, I took part in the early days of reconstruction, rebuilding, and NATO presence in Kandahar. Of the 250 Canadian troops, I was one of only eight women. Part of our mission was to work in Kandahar's first all-girls' schools. We had to prove that the Canadian military was there to provide all Afghans with a safe environment in which to conduct their lives.

Working with the Afghan culture was fascinating and very satisfying. We ran a craft competition where Afghans could sell their art to Canadian soldiers and other NATO communities. All the money was donated back to the schools.

Things aren't as black and white as they are in Canada. You have to work had to come up with solutions in strained situations. Both my accounting and military training have helped me thrive in those situations.

The working conditions on a mission are tough. We work 12 hours a day, seven days a week, for six or seven months at a time. Working out of tents or on the road, we're always under threat or in danger. But you get used to it and work beyond it.

My bottom line is serving the Canadian military and helping people around the world. From Canada to Bosnia to Afghanistan, my designation helps me take on tough assignments'all around the world. I feel comfortable taking on new challenges because I trust my training.

Lieutenant-Colonel Ellie Haevens, CPA, CGA, is the manager of the accounts processing department of national defence for the Canadian military.