We asked Ms Marianna Michailidi, administration manager at Dynamic Group of Companies, “How easy is it being a woman in the maritime sector?”, and this here is what she come up with:
The short answer is that it can vary widely. There are several factors which
may influence or impact on a woman’s position such as, geographic location, the
specific industry segment and the workplace culture.
Historically, the maritime industry has been male-dominated, and while
there have been positive steps toward greater inclusion and balance, women in
the sector may still face unique challenges. However, there are some factors to
consider such as:
1.Gender Equality and Opportunities:
● Opportunities for advancement: Many women in the maritime sector report
that opportunities for promotion and leadership positions are still limited
compared to their male counterparts. However, some companies are actively
working to bridge this gap by introducing diversity initiatives and offering
mentorship programs.
● Perception and bias: Women may, sometimes, encounter stereotypes and
unconscious biases, which lead to challenges in gaining credibility or being taken
seriously. There may also be an expectation for women to go over and above to
prove their “worth” compared to their male colleagues in similar positions.
2.Workplace Environment:
● Several Greek shipping companies are actively promoting women in the
maritime industry by offering opportunities, leadership roles, and creating more
inclusive work environments. Here are some prominent Greek shipping companies
known for their efforts to support and empower women:
a. Costamare Shipping
Costamare is one of the largest Greek shipping companies, specializing in
container shipping. The company has shown a commitment to fostering diversity
and inclusivity, recognizing the importance of promoting gender equality in
maritime operations.
Supports the recruitment and advancement of women in leadership roles, both at
sea and in corporate positions. They also provide equal opportunities and
mentorship programs for women aspiring to advance in the maritime industry.
b. Eletson Corporation
Eletson operates a fleet of tankers and has a reputation for encouraging diversity.
They have been making efforts to ensure that women are represented across
various sectors of their operations.
The company supports women in both technical and managerial positions,
focusing on equal opportunities for career growth. Eletson provides a welcoming
environment that allows women to thrive within the company.
c. Tsakos Shipping and Trading
Tsakos Shipping and Trading is a major player in the Greek shipping industry,
managing a large and diversified fleet. The company has made significant strides
in promoting gender equality in the workplace.
Focuses on enhancing diversity in maritime and shore-based positions and has
implemented policies aimed at empowering women in both operational and
executive roles. They are committed to creating opportunities for women to excel
in their careers.
d. Navios Maritime
Navios is a global shipping company that is part of the Greek maritime community.
The company promotes gender diversity in its workforce and is known for its
inclusive policies.
Actively supports the recruitment of women in various positions within the
organization and encourages their professional development through leadership
programs and mentorship.
e. Aegean Shipping
Aegean Shipping is a Greek-owned company involved in ship management,
shipping services, and maritime logistics. The company strives to promote diversity
in the traditionally male-dominated shipping industry.
They encourage women to pursue careers in maritime professions and ensure that
women are equally represented in both technical roles and managerial positions.
These companies, among others in Greece, are working to promote gender
diversity, equality, and inclusion in the shipping industry. While progress is being
made, there is a continued effort across the sector to ensure more women have
the opportunity to advance in maritime professions.
● Male-dominated workforce: In the maritime industry, especially in roles
onboard vessels, a lack of female representation is still prevalent, which can lead
to feelings of isolation and/or, in some cases exclusion. This can be particularly
difficult for women working in traditional environments like engineering, deck
operations, and other technical roles.
● The Greek Merchant Marine Academy has made notable efforts in recent
years to welcome women into the maritime industry, a sector traditionally
dominated by men. Greek Merchant Marine Academies have progressively
opened their doors to female cadets, removing barriers that previously limited
women’s participation. Enrollment processes are designed to provide equal
opportunities for both men and women, often accompanied by public campaigns
encouraging young women to apply. Special scholarship programs or financial
incentives are sometimes offered to female students, making maritime education
more accessible to women from diverse socio-economic backgrounds. To combat
stereotypes, the Academy collaborates with maritime organizations, industry
leaders, and non-profits to promote the idea that women can thrive in all aspects
of the maritime profession, including as ship officers, engineers, and captains.
Female cadets receive mentorship from successful women in the maritime
industry. Mentorship initiatives often include advice on overcoming gender-based
challenges and building resilience in a traditionally male-dominated environment.
While the Greek Merchant Marine Academy has made significant strides,
challenges such as gender biases and the physical demands of certain maritime
roles still persist. However, the growing presence of women in the industry and
ongoing reforms are reshaping perceptions, making maritime careers more
accessible and appealing to women.
● Sexual harassment and discrimination: Sadly, reports of sexual harassment
and discrimination are still prevalent, in some parts of the industry. Many women
have advocated for stronger policies and better enforcement to ensure safe and
respectful workplaces.
3.Support and Networking
● Mentorship and female networks: The maritime industry is increasingly
seeing the rise of organizations, events, and mentorship programs aimed at
supporting women. These can assist women to build strong professional networks
and connect with role models. At this point, I would like to add, how delighted I am
being part of WISTA International, a global organization that promotes the role of
women in the maritime, shipping, and trading sectors. Recently, the President of
WISTA UK Mrs. Monica Kohli, added to the long list of women successes, the
incredible achievement of being received, the honor of Officer of the Order of the
British Empire (OBE) from His Majesty King Charles III. I would certainly
encourage my female colleagues to join this and other organizations so that our
representation in the aforementioned industries increases.
● Policy improvements: Some shipping companies and maritime
organizations have introduced initiatives to improve gender balance, such as
flexible work policies, supportive environments for women returning to work after
maternity leave, and women’s empowerment groups. I personally consider myself
fortunate being a member of a company that promotes, empowers and defends
women in the maritime sector and encourages them to reach managerial positions.
4.Physical and Practical Challenges:
● Working at sea: For women working onboard vessels, there may be
additional practical challenges, such as a lack of dedicated facilities (e.g.,
bathrooms, sleeping quarters), , which can make life at sea more difficult. However,
it seems that many companies are addressing these issues by upgrading their
facilities to be more inclusive.
● Work-life balance: Many women in the maritime industry report challenges
in maintaining a healthy work-life balance due to the demanding nature of the work,
long voyages, and time away from home. This can be especially challenging for
women with family responsibilities.
5.Advocacy and Industry Trends:
● The industry has recognized the importance of diversity and is increasingly
focusing on attracting women into maritime careers. Some international
organizations and initiatives (like the Women’s International Shipping & Trading
Association – WISTA) are pushing for more inclusive policies, better recruitment,
and education initiatives aimed at women.
While it may not always be easy, it is certainly becoming more attainable
for women to succeed in the maritime sector. With the ongoing cultural shift
towards increased gender equality, combined with support from advocacy
organizations and progressive companies, the challenges are becoming more
manageable. Women can without a doubt pursue successful careers in the
maritime industry, although they may sometimes have to persevere and navigate
around some of the gender-specific obstacles that still exist today.
