Inspiring the Next Generation of Women on the Water

On May 13th, the Michigan Maritime Museum, Gull Lake Marine, and Boat Safe Chicago partnered to host a Women on the Water event for high school seniors from South Haven Public Schools. Witnessing these young women exploring the diverse career opportunities within the maritime industry was truly inspiring.

The event, skillfully spearheaded by Ashley Deming, Director of Education and Programs at the Michigan Maritime Museum and Barry Broekhuizen Group General Manager at Gull Lake Marine Center Inc., and a dedicated museum board member, provided a meaningful experience for everyone involved. The students enjoyed insightful facility tours, engaging with professional women captains,  and the highlight of the day: exhilarating boat rides aboard a beautiful Boston Whaler 250 Outrage and a Pioneer 222 Islander, generously provided by Gull Lake Marine!

A huge thank you to the incredible women captains who volunteered their time and shared their journeys:

• Captain Deborah Leja: A dedicated captain with Chicago Harbors and Boat Safe Chicago, a National Safe Boating Council Instructor, and an active member of the USCG Auxiliary. 
• Captain Lisa Dixon: A seasoned charter captain, safety guru, and Master instructor.
• Captain Diamond Gibbs: A talented captain at First Lady Cruises in Chicago
• Captain Capt. Attia Gray: Another inspiring captain at First Lady Cruises 

Thanks to Captain Diamond and Captain Attia’s boss, Captain Gabriel Argumedo, and Captain Alejandro Rodriguez, for their support and belief in Diamond and Attia’s commitment to this important initiative. As Captain Diamond and Attia shared, “We’re glad they gave us the day off, and we appreciate them believing in us!”

“It was amazing to see the light ignite behind the young ladies’ eyes,” said Captain Attia, “If my experience can inspire others along my journey, I will know I’m living in my purpose.”

Captain Diamond added, “I really enjoy speaking to young women to show them that there are women on the water. I hope that one day I can be somebody’s role model. I had a lot of fun hanging out with the girls and telling them my story.” We have news for you, Captain Diamond- you’re already a role model.

This impactful day was perfectly timed during the #GlobalWomensWalk2025, a global celebration of women in the marine industry, working to transform girls’ education worldwide. Thank you Michele J. Goldsmith for bringing #GlobalWomensWalk2025 to the forefront in partnership with esteemed organizations like Metstrade, Soundings Trade Only, British Marine, and Marine Industry News. These events also preceded National Safe Boating Week, emphasizing the importance of safety on the water.

The Michigan Maritime Museum is a true gem on South Haven’s waterfront. It offers beautifully crafted exhibits about Great Lakes maritime history. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in maritime history and also a unique venue for corporate events or weddings!

Looking ahead, the Museum will host a similar program for South Haven elementary school girls on July 13th.

Boat Safe Chicago encourages companies to offer paid days off so their employees can participate in vital events like these, which contribute to strengthening and diversifying the marine industry workforce.

Let’s continue to support and inspire the next generation of maritime professionals! 

#WomenInMaritime #MaritimeCareers #GirlsinSTEM #MichiganMaritimeMuseum #GullLakeMarine #RoleModels #MakingADifference #FutureLeaders #SafeBoating #GlobalWomenWalk2025