LT CDR McLaughlin joined the RNZN in 1990. Suitable naval qualification and experience includes being the Marine Engineer Officer in both ANZAC frigates and he is a Fellow of IMarEST. His operational service includes two deployments to the Arabian Gulf (2003 and 04).    LT CDR McLaughlin has previously served in the Marine Training Group as the Fleet Marine Engineering Officer and he joined as FDCO in June 2021