Center for Mariner Advocacy Joins the Conversation at Women Offshore
At maritime industry events, Phil Schifflin, Esq., Director of SCI’s Center for Mariner Advocacy, often hears concerns about mariner shortages across both the oceangoing and inland sectors. His response points to an opportunity: women make up roughly half of the U.S. population yet remain underrepresented in the maritime workforce. Making maritime careers more welcoming and attractive to women, he emphasizes, is essential to drawing from the nation’s full pool of talent.
That conviction made Phil especially pleased to participate in this year’s Women Offshore
Conference in Houston, Texas. Under the theme “Yes, You Can,” the conference brought together maritime professionals for conversations focused on empowering women and supporting lasting careers in the industry.
Phil joined the panel “Defining Your Identity in Work & Life,” which explored transitions between sea and shoreside positions, challenging work environments, and major life changes. Drawing on his transition from military to civilian life and the experiences of former military colleagues, he reflected on factors that can shape a successful transition and how those lessons might apply to women navigating changes throughout their maritime careers.
Phil also emphasized the importance of caring for mental health during periods of change. Career transitions and personal upheaval can create stress, and seeking support early can help keep concerns from escalating. He encouraged attendees to establish a relationship with a mental health professional before an urgent need arises, building a source of support they can turn to when facing difficult times.