I am a maritime sector professional with over ten years of experience, whose career reflects commitment, vocation, and leadership in the sustainable management of aquatic resources. Currently, I serve as Coordinator of the National Vessels Fisheries Control and Monitoring Centre, contributing through innovation and technical knowledge to strengthening Panama’s maritime sector and inspiring new generations of women to break ground in this industry.
What do you enjoy most about working in the maritime sector as a woman?
What I enjoy most is directly contributing to the regulation, control, and sustainable use of aquatic resources, from a technical and strategic role within Panama’s Aquatic Resources Authority. As a Fisheries Analyst and Coordinator of the National Vessels Fisheries Control and Monitoring Centre, I work daily with various satellite monitoring platforms, highlighting IORIS as a key tool for analysing navigation patterns, detecting irregular activities, and strengthening fisheries surveillance. It motivates me to know that this work positively impacts maritime safety, regulatory compliance, and ecosystem conservation, while also demonstrating that women can lead high-responsibility technological and operational processes in the maritime sector.
What progress have you observed for women in the sector in recent years?
In recent years, I have observed increased inclusion of women in technical, operational, and supervisory roles within the maritime and fisheries sectors, along with growing recognition of our professional capabilities—especially in areas related to technology, data analysis, and satellite monitoring. There is now greater institutional openness for women to lead strategic processes supported by platforms like IORIS and other tracking systems, which has strengthened decision-making based on real-time information and fostered a more inclusive and modern organizational culture. These advances reflect important progress toward gender equity and valuing female talent in maritime management.
What do you think still needs to be done to better support women in the maritime field?
It is essential to continue strengthening specialized training programs in maritime technologies, satellite monitoring, and data analysis, as well as mentorship and leadership development schemes aimed at women. Additionally, institutional policies guaranteeing equal opportunities, job stability, and work-life balance must be ensured. It is also important to increase visibility of female role models in technical and operational positions, especially in monitoring, inspection, and control, to inspire new generations. Finally, promoting work environments free of stereotypes and with equitable conditions that allow women to fully develop in the maritime sector is necessary. This will enable more women to advance professionally in the maritime sector and actively contribute to institutional strengthening and sustainable management of aquatic resources.