Charting Her Course: Women Shaping Maritime

On International Day for Women in Maritime 2026, Fleet Management celebrates the women across its vessels who contribute to safe operations, strong performance, and an inclusive maritime culture. From senior officers and engineers to cadets at the start of their careers, their experiences reflect the diverse pathways shaping today’s maritime workforce.

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For International Day for Women in Maritime, Fleet Management highlights the individual journeys behind the roles. Three women share their experiences, offering insight into their day‑to‑day responsibilities and how support, confidence, and opportunity shape long‑term careers at sea.

Leadership and Responsibility at Sea

As a Second Officer, Rubiya Bano plays a central role in ensuring navigational safety and the smooth operation of the bridge. Her day begins with careful preparation before taking over watch, followed by monitoring traffic, weather and navigational equipment, managing voyage planning, and maintaining charts and safety documentation. The role calls for calm decision-making, strong situational awareness and close coordination with the bridge team.

Rubiya began her career at a time when few women were sailing, starting with a rating certificate and taking on responsibility early. These experiences shaped her resilience and leadership approach, grounded in discipline and consistency.

“Women in this industry have always had to navigate more than rough seas,” she says. “Today, women are commanding vessels, excelling in engineering roles and shaping leadership. Their presence is transforming the industry.”

She also highlights the importance of consistent support, including regular wellbeing check-ins and family engagement, which help reinforce focus, confidence and a strong safety culture onboard.

Technical Expertise in Demanding Environments

Working in the engine room, Second Engineer Melisha Mathias operates in a technically demanding environment where reliability and precision are essential. Her responsibilities include machinery maintenance, engine room rounds, managing tasks within the engineering team, and troubleshooting equipment under the guidance of the Chief Engineer.

“The hands-on nature of engineering and the responsibility that comes with it are what drew me to this role,” she says. “Solving problems in real time and keeping critical systems running is both challenging and rewarding.”

Melisha was drawn to maritime engineering by the opportunity to work practically and apply technical knowledge in live operating conditions. She values the responsibility that comes with maintaining essential systems and the trust placed in engineers to make sound decisions onboard.

“Fleet has always ensured my mental wellbeing and safety onboard,” she explains. “Regular contact with the Fleet Care team and clear policies help create a supportive working environment.”

She sees strong safety standards and a clear commitment to seafarer wellbeing as key to attracting more women into technical roles and hopes her own experience encourages others to consider engineering careers at sea.

The Early Stages of a Maritime Career

For Cadet Avantika Singh, time at sea is defined by learning and adaptation. Her days involve supervised navigational watch, deck maintenance, supporting officers with documentation, and gaining exposure to the practical realities of shipboard operations.

Every day onboard is a learning experience,” she says. “Being involved in different tasks helps me understand the responsibilities that come with life at sea and build confidence in my role.”

Choosing a maritime career allowed her to take responsibility early and work towards long-term stability. She is motivated by women who pursue demanding careers with confidence and determination.

“Increasing numbers of women working as ratings, officers and engineers gives me confidence in the industry’s future,” she says. “Choose the best job for yourself, even if it is tough.”

Access to personalised wellbeing support has helped her adjust to life at sea, allowing her to focus on developing skills while building confidence in her role.

A shared commitment to people

Although their experiences differ, a consistent theme emerges in how seafarers are supported in practice. From structured training and mentoring to day-to-day communication onboard, these elements build confidence, strengthen decision-making, and support career growth.

On International Day for Women in Maritime, these stories reflect both progress and potential. By investing in people and supporting diverse career pathways at sea, Fleet Management continues to build inclusive, meaningful careers and a stronger maritime industry.