Who We Are
Who WIMOs Members Are
We welcome all female-identifying persons—regardless of race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin—who are actively employed in the maritime industry. Industry employment could include, but may not be limited to, individuals who own, operate, charter, dispatch, or provide other types of logistical, safety, and emergency management services on the water. Membership is also open to women with equivalent military, non-profit, or educational experience. Exceptions may be made for women who graduated from a Maritime Academy.
Founders Statement
In 2017, Kasey Eckstein, the founder, and Jenna Gaudet, the co-founder, started doing business together. Their professional relationship quickly proved mutually beneficial, as they shared contacts, educated each other, and kept one another informed of various opportunities. Together, they attended predominantly male-dominated industry events, forming a strong partnership and friendship, much like the men in the industry had done for generations. Recognizing their strength in unity, they established WIMOs to provide other women in maritime with the opportunity to Educate, Engage, and Elevate each other. The organization was founded in New Orleans and swiftly expanded to Paducah, the Ohio Valley Region, the Texas Gulf Coast, and the Pacific Northwest.