ABSTRACT
The systemic gender gap in maritime organizations recently has been brought into focus due to prioritization from the global community. In parallel, this traditionally analog industry has begun to modernize its approach to technology, fueled by the concept of digital transformation. While significant literature exists on both gender equality and digital transformation within commercial maritime separately, previous research has failed to address the connection between these two topics. This research study proposes a positive correlation between digital transformation and gender equality in the maritime space, and identifies common corporate actions, digital initiatives, and cultural behaviors that catalyze opportunity for women in the workplace. Final findings will be based on an analysis of data collected from a range of publicly available sources, including corporate workforce statistics, governmental labor figures, and industry news outlets. This third-party data will be augmented by new research findings collected via quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews distributed to and conducted with leaders of maritime organizations, both male and female. The goal of this research is to determine the correlation, if any, between digital transformation and gender equality within the maritime industry.