Translate
Women in Maritime Leadership Conference 2026
Charting the Course Forward: The Return of Women in Maritime Leadership
March 13-14, 2026
Hosted at Cal Poly Maritime Academy
200 Maritime Academy Drive, Vallejo, CA 94590
After a one-year hiatus, the Women in Maritime Leadership Conference at Cal Poly Maritime Academy is back — and more energized than ever. This year’s event reaffirms its commitment to empowering the next generation of maritime leaders while honoring the seasoned professionals who continue to pave the way.
Through hands-on sessions, real-world insights and intentional networking opportunities, the conference fosters meaningful, actionable connections among maritime students and professionals alike.
Registration for the Women in Maritime Leadership Conference opens Jan. 15, 2026! Cadets and students can register for free. The deadline to register is 9 a.m. on March 11.
Conference Agenda
Check back for updates on the full schedule, breakout sessions, panel topics and speaker bios as we get closer to the conference.
Purpose: Building a Stronger Maritime Community
The Women in Maritime Leadership Conference was developed to bridge the gap between classroom learning and industry leadership. By bringing together cadets and maritime professionals, we create space for professional development, personal growth and lasting community connections.
We believe the future of the maritime industry must be accessible, resilient and inclusive. Thanks to the support of our generous sponsors, students are able to attend the conference at no cost — ensuring that the next generation of leaders has every opportunity to thrive.
Ways to Engage
Students and Cadets: Join the Next Wave of Leaders
The Women in Maritime Leadership Conference is a premier gathering for students pursuing maritime careers and professionals already making waves in the industry. The conference brings together emerging and established leaders to foster an equitable, safe, innovative and sustainable maritime community through the power of connection.
Join us as we celebrate the accomplishments, lived experiences and powerful stories of women who are shaping the future of maritime.
This Year’s Theme: Grit and Grace
Our 2026 theme reflects the dual strengths needed to lead in today’s maritime world:
- Grit – The resilience to weather uncertainty and navigate complex challenges.
- Grace – Leadership grounded in integrity, empathy and confidence.
What to Expect
- Learn from Industry Leaders: Hear from maritime professionals about their career paths, leadership insights and how they’re shaping the future of the industry.
- Build Leadership Skills: Participate in interactive workshops focused on communication, collaboration and real-world decision-making.
- Grow Your Network: Connect with mentors, peers and industry leaders who are invested in your success.
Registration is free for cadets and students! The registration deadline is 9 a.m. on March 11.
Questions? Reach out to vdhillon@csum.edu for any additional information needed.
For Maritime Professionals and Industry Partners
This conference is a unique opportunity to invest in the future of the industry while building meaningful connections with emerging leaders. By participating as an industry partner, you'll support leadership development, showcase your organization's values and help shape a more inclusive maritime community.
Explore five opportunities to engage:
Become a Sponsor
As a sponsor, you will provide vital financial support that directly benefits student and cadet participation. You’ll help underwrite conference costs — ensuring access for all attendees, while gaining brand visibility and opportunities to connect with rising leaders. Sponsorship levels include Platinum, Gold, Silver and Bronze.
Host an Exhibit or Table
Reserve a space to share your organization’s mission, values and opportunities. Exhibiting allows for meaningful one-on-one conversations with students and professionals, making it an ideal platform for networking, recruitment and brand presence.
Speak or Present
Lend your voice and expertise to the conversation. Whether participating in a panel, delivering a technical talk, or sharing your leadership story, presenting at the conference is a powerful way to inspire and engage with the next generation of maritime professionals.
Lead High-Impact Networking
Volunteer to support a guided networking session where students practice elevator pitches, build their personal brands, and grow their professional confidence. Your mentorship during this session helps make the conference experience both practical and memorable.
Attend the Conference
Engage as a participant to expand your own network, gain new insights and demonstrate your commitment to supporting inclusive leadership in maritime. Your presence adds value to the dialogue and to the community we're building together.
We welcome your ideas for sponsorship, exhibits or presentations. To explore how you or your organization can participate in the 2026 conference, please contact us directly at vdhillon@csum.edu or 707-718-0707.
The deadline to register or sponsor is March 11.
Thank You to Our Conference Sponsors
We are grateful to the organizations helping shape the future of the maritime industry by investing in women’s leadership, workforce development and long-term sustainability.
Platinum Sponsors: American Maritime Officers, Virgin Voyages, The PASHA Group
Gold Sponsors:
Silver Sponsors:
Bronze Sponsors:
Contact Us
For questions about the conference, participation options or sponsorship opportunities, please contact:
Vineeta Dhillon
vdhillon@csum.edu
707-718-0707
