Highlighting Women at the Panama Canal

In honor of World Maritime Day, and its theme “Empowering Women in the Maritime Community” this year, we would like to highlight a few vital members of our team at the Panama Canal. From overseeing operations on the ground to representing the Canal to customers abroad, these individuals demonstrate that women not only thrive, but also drive the waterway’s success across all areas of the organization. Check out the clips below to hear their stories and learn more about their journeys.

Ilya Espino de Marotta, Vice President of Transit Business
“Because of the Expansion Program, there was such visibility on a woman doing this job that it’s inspiring a lot of women not only in the maritime industry, but in any industry. I think the legacy is that women can do whatever they want to do, that there are opportunities.”

Anabel Ortega, Admeasurer / Boarding Officer
“We have the capacity to develop any career if you’re passionate with your career. Remember that we don’t have boundaries. Everything is in your mind and heart.”

Silvia de Marucci, Market Analysis and Customer Relations Manager
“I really enjoy working with such knowledgeable people and learning every day from them. It’s just a beautiful industry to work in because it’s always different.”

Anayancy Johnson, Senior Boarding Officer
“This is a male dominated job. It has been like that for a long time and that tradition still keeps going, but I think it’s changing now. But that change depends on us.”

Donica Baird, Launch and Linehandling Operations Supervisor
“I came in here as a clerk and today, I have the privilege of supervising over 120 men and women.”

Verónica Will Araúz de Ortega, Tugboat Captain
“Whenever they see me, I hope for sure that my professionalism and my experience motivate them. When they see me, I hope that I encourage them to see ‘okay, she reached that place, I can do it too.’”
Source: Panama Canal Authority (ACP)