Women+ Maritime Digital Roundtables: Shared Experiences & Community Connection A monthly digital gathering for those who identify as women+ and share a connection to working on or around the water. This event is designed for women+ mariners and water‑connected professionals who want to engage in a meaningful, no‑notes conversation about the realities of working on or around the water. Together, we’ll explore shared experiences, build authentic connections, and learn about resources that support women+ throughout their maritime careers. The session begins with a welcoming mixer to help everyone settle in before we move into a guided discussion.
This session will be hosted by Liz Schmidt, a maritime professional and nonprofit leader with over 20 years of experience in strategic operations, community programming, and maritime industry advocacy. In this space, we set aside titles, ranks, and credentials so we can focus on the real experiences that shape our time on the water. By speaking openly and listening to one another, we strengthen the sense of community, professionalism, and resilience that defines our industry.
About Participation The is an affinity‑based space held specifically for women+ individuals. The intention is to create a setting where participants can speak openly about experiences that are often unique to navigating the maritime industry in a perceived‑female body. These realities can include assumptions, barriers, and challenges as well as strength, insight, and resilience. These gathering honor all of it. We recognize that gender expression is expansive and not limited to “man” or “woman.” While not the central focus, conversations may naturally touch on topics such as menstruation, menopause, hygiene, hysterectomies, pregnancy, postpartum, or the ongoing challenge of finding work gear that fits a female body, all realities that shape life and work aboard vessels and in maritime environments.
About The Foundation Women Offshore Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit committed to fostering an environment where everyone feels valued, supported, and included. We propel women into meaningful maritime careers through a global community and professional development resources, rooted in the real experiences of those working on the water. Guided by our vision of a community where all individuals are empowered to pursue their career ambitions, we uphold values of community, development, access, professionalism, and resilience—building networks of support, expanding opportunities, and tackling industry challenges with determination and respect for all.
Interested in having a larger role in fostering the next generation of sailors? Or, are you looking for some guidance in your career? Learn more about the Women Offshore and Tall Ships MentorSHIP Program.
The meetings will be on the following dates at 2:00PM ET/11:00AM PT
- March 17, 2026
- April 21, 2026
- May 19, 2026
- June 16, 2026
- July 21, 2026
- August 18, 2026
- September 15, 2026
- October 20, 2026
- November 17, 2026
- December 15, 2026
You can sign up for the meetings using the form below. The link will be the same for all of the meetings.
