Professional equity in the maritime sector: technical culture, leadership and training proposal from a mixed analysis in the Canary Islands

Abstract

Advances in the maritime sector are a palpable reality: improvements in sustainability, automation, safety and working conditions have marked the evolution of the professional environment. However, despite this progress, there are still significant differences between men and women in terms of professional integration. This article explores whether quality integration for women on board is really possible. Although the number of female graduates has grown, many still face questions about their ability, the pressure to adopt masculine leadership styles and a constant pressure to prove their worth.

Faced with this scenario, several key questions arise: How are these differences perceived within crews? What do women on board feel and experience? What actions are underway to reduce the professional gap and transform the culture of the sector? Are educational institutions developing effective tools to prepare future professionals in terms of equity? Even today, many young women are still unaware that these careers exist, and commemorative events, although well-intentioned, do not always generate deep reflection or real change.

This article analyses this professional difference through a mixed methodology, with surveys of professionals in the sector and in-depth interviews with women in the bridge and engine departments. From their accounts, multiple micro-injustices and symbolic obstacles are identified. However, rather than focusing on denunciation, the aim is to explore possible ways of improvement through training. A didactic day is proposed, oriented towards creating experiences between students and professionals, including debates, invisible theatre and simulated situations based on real cases.

Today more than ever, training competent technicians also requires integrating an ethical and empathetic mindset o perspective. And in this aspect, universities have the responsibility to act as an engine of change, to promote a more conscious, fair and inclusive maritime culture, and to improve human quality and sustainability in the professional environment.