Pre-Starfleet

Tavana Sh’raleq was born in 2340 on Andoria to her parents Beb & Thytti Sh’raleq. From early on it was identified that although Tavana was not typically academically able she had a brilliant mind for mechanics. Often taking apart everyday household appliances just to put them back together. This at an early age did not stunt Tavana however as she came to the end of her formal education and applying to higher education, Tavana was unable to secure a spot in any Universities. Following this, the lost 18 year old submitted an application to Starfleet Academy however, without a sponsor, she failed early assessments and her application did not go any further.

Tavana decided to enlist in Starfleet instead and was sent to earth to begin basic training at the Starfleet Enlisted Training Centre.

Starfleet Enlist Program

Excelling in the Starfleet Enlist Training, Tavana was fast tracked to an Engineering Technician Apprenticeship and was sent to Starbase 11 at the age of 19. This is where she fell in love with Starfleet and its technology. Although her job was repetitive and was often filled with unstimulating tasks, Tavana loved every moment of her time in her apprenticeship. During her apprenticeship she found a mentor in a Chief Petty Officer, Chief Marcus Spokesman, who throughout the year taught her not only about her role but also about the traditions held with Starfleet and the range of opportunities ahead of her.

After her apprenticeship Tavana was moved from maintenance to working in the Starbase’s engineering core under Commander Megan Garcia, the base’s Chief Engineer. During this time, from Crewman to Petty Officer 3rd Class, Tavana continuously excelled. Often time she over shadowed senior officers with her ability.

After 6 years on the station, Commander Garcia decided that it was unacceptable that Tavana was to be stuck as an enlistee and as such sponsored her application to Starfleet Academy. Given her status in Starfleet and previous service, Tavana was placed into a fast-track program which would grant her the rank of Lieutenant JG following her graduation.

USS Speedwell

Tavana graduated with ease, her grades were not impressive but they were enough for her to graduate. She understood the opportunity she had and therefore was focussed on making the most of it.

The USS Speedwell was Lieutenant JG Tavana Sh’raleq’s first assignment after the academy. She was a sprite and excited Engineering Officer who was committed to learn everything she possibly could onboard. Given her age, she was seen as a mentor to the younger ensigns and engineering crew members. A year into her assignment the USS Speedwell saw combat against a band of pirates looking to sell the ship to an undisclosed buyer. Sh’raleq’s ingenuity was a key factor in the success of the ship that day. This event however did leave Sh’raleq traumatised as, when the engineering core was compromised, Tavana sacrificed herself and surrendered to the pirates in exchange for the protection of her fellow engineering crew. During her capture she managed to escape and lock out the pirates from primary systems and worked with security to expel them from the ship.

After four years onboard Tavana was approached by the ship’s Chief Engineer and was offered the position of Shift Engineer, a step into leadership. This role taught Tavana key skills that were useful later in her career.

USS Io

In 2386 Tavana Sh’raleq was offered the role of Assistant Chief Engineer as well as a promotion to Lieutenant onboard the USS Io.