Our Impact & Mission

Our Mission

WIMOs is dedicated to recruiting, retaining, advancing, and promoting women in the maritime industry through sharing knowledge and continuing education. We believe through education our members will engage more in their careers and then can elevate their careers if they choose to do so.

Educate. Engage. Elevate

We support and uplift women who demonstrate an interest in and a commitment to maritime careers. We strive to do this by creating an environment that supports the professional development of women through formal and experiential training. Our vision is for every member to obtain the confidence and necessary resources to thrive in a room regardless of gender.

Learn about the history of WIMOs.

1310

members

chapters

158+

events/year

142

mentorships

89%

of WIMOs members plan to stay in the maritime industry for the next year because of WIMOs.

83%

of WIMOs members are more likely to attend industry events because of WIMOs.

86%

of WIMOs members believe
WIMOs connections are valuable
for their careers.

"Being a part of WIMOs gives me pathways to speak to other women, who like me, work in on the operational side of the marine industry. Not only do we have the commonality of sharing similar career journeys, but we also share techniques and processes of our work and learn about each other’s companies. Mostly I enjoy the camaraderie of being in the company of women who are working in an industry we all love and choose to be a part of."

Stephanie HigginsIngram Marine Group

"WIMOs has provided me with a strong community of women to connect with, learn from, and grow alongside in a traditionally male-dominated industry. I’m grateful for the meaningful relationships I’ve built and for the opportunity to volunteer and contribute to a mission that is deeply important to me."

Alexa NorrisOpenTug

"I am grateful to the WIMOs Association for providing me with a platform to support and uplift women in this industry through the mentorship program. I have met so many incredible women through WIMOs who have mentored, motivated, and nurtured my growth. It is my honor to be able to give back."

Caitlin DunckelHiller Companies

How WIMOs Helps Members

We help empower women in the maritime industry by providing education, mentorship, and hands-on experiences designed to advance careers and strengthen professional networks. Members gain access to many events each year, ranging from in-person workshops and operational site visits to virtual webinars with industry experts. These opportunities help women build technical skills, explore leadership pathways, and gain confidence in professional settings. WIMOs also hosts social and sporting events that create approachable, supportive environments for networking, skill-building, and practicing etiquette in traditionally male-centered spaces.

Through mentorship, networking, and chapter-based activities, members form meaningful relationships that not only enhance their individual careers but also strengthen the maritime community as a whole. By combining education, engagement, and professional development, WIMOs ensures that women in maritime operations have the tools, connections, and confidence to excel in maritime roles across the industry.

Mentorship: Elevate Each Other

Through one-on-one guidance and group programs, experienced professionals connect with emerging talent to share knowledge, and offer support navigating a career in the maritime industry. This network of mentors and mentees helps women build confidence, expand their professional connections, and develop the skills needed to advance in operational and leadership roles on the water and beyond.

Events: Learn, Engage, Connect

Our events are designed to be both fun and educational, giving members a chance to connect while building skills that matter. Annual highlights like the golf tournament, clay shoot, and karaoke night provide approachable, supportive environments where women can practice their skills and etiquette while networking. Beyond the social aspect, these events help members develop skills and relationships that translate into success on the water and in their careers.

Thank You to Our Sponsors

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How does WIMOs make an impact?

We make an impact by offering educational programs, networking opportunities, leadership development, mentorship, and industry engagement that support women throughout their maritime careers and strengthen the future workforce of the maritime industry.

How does WIMOs measure its impact?

We measure our impact through membership growth, event participation, mentorship engagement, educational programming, chapter expansion, and biannual member-wide surveys.

Why is supporting women in maritime important?

As the industry faces critical workforce shortages, WIMOs stands ready to tap into 50% of the population that makes up 2% – 30% of the maritime industry, depending on speciality. We create opportunities for professional growth, leadership development, and industry collaboration. Supporting women in maritime helps build a stronger, more capable workforce.

Who benefits from WIMOs' programs and initiatives?

Our programs benefit women at all stages of their maritime careers, from students and emerging professionals to experienced industry leaders, while also supporting the organizations and communities we serve.