The Untapped Power of Diversity: Bringing More Women into the Maritime Tech Sphere

By Chakib Abi Saab.

From the vast decks of colossal cargo ships to the digital underbelly that powers their routes, the maritime industry has long thrived on the dedication and diligence of its workforce. Yet, while technological advances reshape our industry, one undeniable oversight persists—the stark underrepresentation of women, particularly within the technology vertical.

As the Chief Technology and Information Officer (CTIO) with many years in various maritime companies, my experience has given me an inside look into the workings of this industry. The vast majority of faces I've encountered, especially in the technology sector, have been male. Though the maritime and tech sectors have historically been male-dominated, the question arises: Are we doing enough to reverse this trend?

To be clear, I am not advocating for the imposition of quotas. I believe the essence of meritocracy should always be balanced. Competence should always be the primary criterion. That said, it's impossible to ignore that we need to do more to attract and nurture female talent, and this omission is a detriment to our industry's potential.

The Diversity-Performance Paradigm

The power of a diversified workplace isn't just about representation; it’s about enriching the talent pool, fostering creativity, and approaching challenges from varied perspectives. Each diverse mind brings a unique approach, and when different approaches converge, innovation thrives.

I've been privileged to live a life steeped in diversity. As a Latin American of Lebanese descent, married to an Indonesian wife, I've experienced firsthand the splendor of diversified cultures and perspectives. The insights, the debates, and the varied ways of viewing the world have not only enriched my personal life but have also significantly impacted my professional decisions. If my household can reap such rewards from diversity, imagine the wonders it could do for our maritime workplaces.

The Case of Women in Maritime Technology

The challenge we face is about more than just hiring more women. It's about laying the groundwork to ensure women see the maritime technology sector as an attractive career path.

We need to put more focus on education. Schools, colleges, and universities are where aspirations are molded. We should liaise with educational institutions to promote the maritime tech industry. If we introduce students to the opportunities in our field early on, we can pique their interest and drive them toward considering the Maritime technology vertical it as a potential career path.

We need to do more with training and mentorship. Introducing women to the industry is just the first step. Providing the necessary tools, training, and mentorship is essential to empower them to compete on a level playing field. Through structured mentorship programs, we can ensure that budding female professionals have the resources and guidance they need to excel.

We need to create more inclusive workplaces. While physical infrastructure is essential, the emotional and cultural aspects of a workspace are crucial for retaining talent. Workplaces should be devoid of discrimination and biases. They should foster a culture of inclusivity, where every voice is heard, and every opinion is valued.

4. Highlight Success Stories: As the adage goes, "seeing is believing." By showcasing the accomplishments of women in maritime tech, we can inspire more women to view this sector as a viable and fulfilling career path. These stories can serve as both motivation and testament to the opportunities that await them.

5. Promoting Work-Life Balance: Many women often find themselves torn between professional aspirations and personal commitments. Offering flexible work hours, remote working options, and understanding the unique challenges women might face can make the maritime tech sector a more attractive option.

The Path Forward

The maritime industry, with its rich history and massive potential, is at a juncture. The digital age offers unparalleled opportunities for growth and innovation. To harness these opportunities, we need a workforce that’s as diverse as the challenges we face.

Attracting women to maritime technology isn't about ticking boxes or meeting quotas; it’s about realizing that we've been sailing with half a crew. By creating environments where women are introduced, nurtured, and empowered, we aren't just offering opportunities; we are securing our industry’s future.

As a leader, I call upon my peers to recognize the value that diversity brings. We need to commit to broadening our horizons and inviting talent from all walks of life. Let us lay down the anchors of bias and sail toward a future of equal opportunity and boundless potential.

Diversity is not just a word; it's a promise of untapped potential. Let's make sure the maritime industry is positioned to harness every ounce of it.

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