Asking for sci-fi media featuring elite operatives (Star Trek, XCOM, Mass Effect)

Hi there. I love the sci-fi of the "competent professional," partly because they augur humanity's continued development, especially among the stars - and also, frankly, because highly trained humans (and Vulcans) can be totally rad.

You can see it in classic shows like "Star Trek," and also games like "XCOM" and "Mass Effect."

I'd welcome any media that highlights competence in sci-fi. Could be a novel (I'd love that!) Or films, or shows, or games.

And I want to stress that "competence" does not equal perfection. These people can be really flawed personally - regretful, trapped, even resentful - but they soldier on professionally.

Thanks for your suggestions from any era or medium.