Since launching in August 2025, our Women’s Network has continued to go from strength to strength, creating meaningful impact across CalMac. A key milestone was signing the Diversity in Maritime Pledge, reinforcing our commitment to inclusion, alongside launching a Women’s Network SharePoint site to connect members, share updates, and provide a safe space for ideas.
Membership has grown to 66 colleagues, with encouraging increases from ports and vessels, as well as growing support from male allies. This wider engagement reflects the network’s relevance and value across CalMac.
We’ve delivered a strong programme of development opportunities, including sessions on assertive communication and personal branding, alongside access to external networks such as Women in Transport and partnering with the UPFRONT Bond – a six-week programme designed to build the confidence of women.
Our meetings have focused on building confidence, tackling bias, and creating a more inclusive workplace. Members consistently highlight the importance of sharing real experiences, building resilience, and developing the confidence to speak up. One of our members, COO Diane Burke, was honoured at the UK Transport Awards 2025 with the title of “Woman of the Year”. We are extremely proud of the work Diane has put into championing women, and this accomplishment was well deserved.
We are also proud of the fact that, including Diane, half of our senior executive team are female. Also, CalMac employs higher than average numbers of women – one third of port staff are female and they make up 14% of our vessel crew, compared to the national average of 8%.
We were recently joined by Tineke Zoet, a Maritime Workplace coach. Tineke spoke of her experience as a seafarer in a male-dominated industry and facilitated a workshop on resilience, confidence and allyship.
Through collaboration, learning, and support, the Women’s Network continues to play a vital role in shaping a more inclusive future for all.
Annual membership for Women in Transport is £60, providing access to professional development and networking opportunities. Corporate packages are available; for inquiries, please email us or visit our website.
Our partnership packages are a flexible and accessible way to support Women in Transport and your organization's equity, diversity, and inclusion objectives. Learn more about our partnership opportunities here and contact us if you would like a meeting to discuss how we can work together.
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