Women in the maritime industry. Navigating towards change?

For years, the maritime industry has been perceived as a male-dominated sector. However, over time, more women have acquired expertise and taken on key positions in shipbuilding, port logistics, navigation, and ship management. Nevertheless, just as in the broader business world, their voice in public debate and strategic decision-making often remains less heard. As many as 59% of Polish women believe that women are underrepresented in the public sphere, and only 33% of respondents overall think that their voice is sufficiently acknowledged.

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21 february 2025   |   10:15   |   Source: Gazeta Morska   |   Prepared by: Kamil Kusier   |   Print

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In the maritime sector, this issue is even more pronounced. Women often occupy supporting roles, while key decisions remain in the hands of men. A clear example is the boards of major ports, where the proportion of women remains low. However, it is worth noting that in organizations where women hold leadership positions, progress toward gender equality tends to be faster.

But should gender be the primary criterion for employment, with qualifications coming second? The answer seems clear, though perhaps not obvious to everyone: no.

Waves of change in the workplace

The "WłączeniPlus" Foundation report indicates that women in business still face barriers to promotion and decision-making. In the companies they work for, 47% of respondents consider women's voices sufficiently heard, but only 36% of those aged 55 and older agree. How does this situation unfold in the maritime industry?

At sea and in ports, where hierarchy and tradition play a crucial role, change comes slowly. However, the successes of female captains and terminal managers demonstrate that the barrier lies not in competence but in stereotypes. Today, more women are obtaining licenses to work on deep-sea vessels and taking on managerial roles in shipping companies, yet they remain significantly outnumbered by men.

Career maturity and promotion prospects

Another challenge is the situation of employees over 50, who often feel excluded from promotion opportunities. Only one in three respondents believes that someone over 50 has a real chance for career development in their workplace. In the maritime industry, where experience is invaluable, this could be particularly problematic. Shipyards, ports, and shipping companies should recognize the role of senior employees, who can pass on knowledge and train younger generations. This is especially relevant as women are increasingly enrolling in maritime schools and technical universities, choosing to build their careers in this sector.

Steering towards equality

Achieving greater equality requires more than just declarations—it calls for concrete actions. Empowering women's voices can benefit the entire industry, but it is crucial to ensure that knowledge, experience, and capabilities—not just gender—drive change.

As the report shows, where women have real influence, progress is more visible. Therefore, investing in education, mentorship programs, and open recruitment processes can help more women contribute their perspectives to an evolving industry.

Is the maritime sector ready for women’s voices to be heard loud and clear? Time will tell, but one thing is certain—the right course leads toward greater equality and diversity in key decision-making spaces.

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