Civilians at the Department of National Defence work with the Canadian Forces through their support of military operations, their contribution to the Department's corporate responsibilities and their work at bases and various regional sites. The civilian workforce consists of a variety of careers and occupations from scientists, analysts, and managers, to operational trades such as dockyard workers, technicians and mechanics. Civilians at the Department are responsible for not only providing advice on policy issues and budget administration, but also for ensuring that our ships, tanks and armoury as well as our mission critical systems are in top condition. The knowledge and skills of this workforce ensure that, together with the Canadian Forces, our valued defence services can be provided at home and abroad.