Jack of Harts

The New England Federation Starfleet is a meritocracy, where anyone can rise to the rank of captain of a Starfleet vessel based on skill alone. Any race, sex, or family is welcomed and encouraged to pursue starship command, and there are always destroyers or cruisers available for those who prove their competence. Even survey cruiser commands are filled via competency tests, though a Great Family name does give prospective commanders for plum assignments like those an assumed bonus in competence. In the end though, all Starfleet starship commanders must prove their worthiness to command, through long years of service in other positions before they are granted their first command.