Every year on March 8, International Women’s Day (IWD) highlights the achievements of women and the ongoing pursuit of gender equality. In shipbuilding and maritime, an industry built on precision, innovation, and resilience, women are finding success like never before.
Shipbuilding is evolving, and women are not just part of the conversation – they’re helping lead it. From engineering cutting-edge vessels to pioneering digital transformation and driving sustainability, they are shaping the future of global trade and transportation.
At SSI, we recognize and celebrate the women who have paved the way, those who are pushing boundaries today, and the next generation ready to leave their mark.
“We have to own our place. We’ve earned it through our education, experience, and skills. Women are equal players in any field, and we must always bring our ideas, abilities, and opinions to the table.”
Jennifer Best, Outfit Discipline Lead, Genoa Design International
Women in Shipbuilding: Shaping the Industry Then and Now
The shipbuilding industry is undergoing a technological revolution, and women are at the forefront of this transformation.
Technology Is Changing the Game
Digital shipbuilding solutions – like those developed by SSI – are breaking down long-standing barriers in the industry. As shipbuilding becomes increasingly reliant on software, automation, and data-driven decision-making, it is opening doors for professionals from diverse backgrounds.
With more women pursuing careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math), they are bringing fresh perspectives and innovations to digital shipbuilding. But they’re not just participating – they’re leading. From integrating cutting-edge methodologies to enhancing efficiency and driving technological breakthroughs, women are shaping the future of shipbuilding in powerful ways. In an interview with SSI, Jennifer Best of Genoa Design International explains “We have to own our place. We’ve earned it through our education, experience, and skills. Women are equal players in any field, and we must always bring our ideas, abilities, and opinions to the table.”
Women in the SSI Community
At SSI, we are proud to collaborate with talented women across our global shipbuilding network. From software engineers to project managers and ship designers, women are driving digital transformation and shaping the future of the industry.
Women in our community are:
- Developing Cutting-Edge Shipbuilding Software: They are designing and implementing advanced digital tools that enhance efficiency, collaboration, and precision in ship design and construction.
- Innovating Shipyard Workflows: Women lead process improvements that boost productivity, safety, and sustainability, making shipbuilding operations more effective and environmentally responsible.
- Leading Major Ship Design and Naval Architecture Projects: Their expertise in engineering and design is expanding the possibilities of modern shipbuilding, ensuring the industry stays at the forefront of innovation.
By fostering a workplace that values diversity, collaboration, and growth, SSI is committed to empowering women and ensuring their impact in shipbuilding continues to grow.
“It’s important for other women to have visible female leadership role models to look up to. Through mentorship programs, you get to see women who carry confidence, have the ability to be leaders, and present themselves with authority.”
Nicole Skinner, Senior Structural Designer at Seaspan.
Breaking Barriers, Building the Future
While progress has been made, barriers remain. Women in shipbuilding continue to face challenges, but with growing awareness and inclusivity efforts, the industry is evolving. Women have always been a part of the maritime industry. Today, they are shaping its future.
Navigating Workplace Culture in a Historically Male-Dominated Industry
Overcoming biases and stereotypes can be difficult, but change is happening. Yousra Abdelhady of Transport Canada emphasizes the importance of allyship, stating, “Men play a very crucial role in supporting the women in the industry.” As inclusivity initiatives gain traction, more women are finding supportive environments to grow and thrive.
Breaking Through to Leadership Roles
Women also remain underrepresented in executive positions, making career advancement a challenge. At Workboat 2024, a panel discussion highlighted this gap. “We rarely see women in the C-suite, especially in the inland industry,” said Kasey Eckstein, president of Eckstein Trade and Transport LLC. “When women look at entering this industry, they want to see a path forward, but without role models, it’s hard to envision that path.”
Ally Cedeno, founder of Women Offshore, reinforced the need for structured development programs, saying, “We need foundational programs that help get women to the top so they can be the role models in this industry.” Companies with strong mentorship and sponsorship initiatives are proving that meaningful change is possible.
Nicole Skinner, Senior Structural Designer at Seaspan, echoed this sentiment in a conversation with SSI, emphasizing the importance of visible female leadership. “I think it’s important for other women to have visible female leadership role models to look up to. Through mentorship programs, you get to see women who carry confidence, have the ability to be leaders, and present themselves with authority.” Nicole also emphasizes the power of mentorship and sponsorship programs, which provide visibility, build confidence, and foster strong networks.
By fostering mentorship, advocating for inclusivity, and championing diversity, the shipbuilding industry can create more opportunities for women to lead, innovate, and thrive.
Moving Forward: Empowering Women in Shipbuilding
The shipbuilding industry is rapidly evolving, and women are at the forefront of driving that change. Thanks to growing mentorship, education, and advocacy programs, there’s now more support than ever to help women succeed and thrive in this dynamic field.
As the industry continues to make strides in inclusivity, women are finding new opportunities to lead, innovate, and transform the way ships are built and operated. But even as we celebrate these achievements, it’s important to remember that there’s always more work to be done.
Advice for Women in Shipbuilding:
- Use Your Voice, Even When You’re the Only One in the Room: Your perspective is valuable. Speak up, share your ideas, and challenge the status quo.
- Highlight Workplace Safety and Well-Being: Women bring unique insights into areas like safety, work-life balance, and employee well-being, all of which are critical to shaping a better workplace for everyone.
- Champion Innovation and Progress: Never hesitate to speak up about new ideas, improvements, and advancements in the industry. The shipbuilding world needs fresh perspectives to remain at the cutting edge of technology and sustainability.
By continuing to advocate for change and support one another, women in shipbuilding can continue to break down barriers, create lasting impact, and pave the way for future generations of women to excel in this incredible industry.