Towards a more inclusive maritime: A conversation with Elpi Petraki, WISTA International

Elpi is a trailblazer in the maritime world, leading the charge for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) at the highest levels. Her mission is clear: to create a more inclusive and dynamic industry that attracts and retains top talent while embracing the future of maritime innovation.

A lifelong passion for shipping

“The maritime world fascinated me from an early age,” Elpi recalls. ”Growing up in Greece, where both my parents worked in shipping, I was naturally drawn to the industry. I pursued studies in maritime business and law before stepping into my first role in our family business.”

Elpi’s passion for shipping only grew stronger over the years.

Shipping never sleeps. I have had some great experiences over the years, and being part of this vibrant, varied and global industry has been very rewarding.

Attracting the next generation of maritime professionals

The maritime sector has ramped up efforts to engage younger generations, but Elpi believes there is more to be done.

We need to make the industry more accessible and increase opportunities for early exposure’ Engaging with schools and universities, particularly those outside traditional maritime hubs, is key.

…she emphasizes.

Beyond awareness, companies must align with the values of younger professionals. “Today’s workforce seeks organizations with strong policies on diversity and inclusion,” she notes. “Companies that embrace these principles are far more likely to attract and retain top talent.”

Advice for aspiring maritime professionals

For those considering a career in shipping, Elpi offers a clear message: “Make the most of every opportunity”

A career in shipping can be very rewarding; but you need to be prepared to put in the hard work and continue to educate yourself as the industry continues to evolve. It is challenging, but every day is different and it’s an exciting, often fast-paced environment where you can thrive and never stop learning.

The DEI challenge

Despite progress, the maritime industry still faces challenges when it comes to gender diversity. “The concerns that led to the founding of WISTA International remain,” Elpi points out. “Women are underrepresented, often underpaid, and struggle to progress into senior roles at the same pace as their male counterparts.”

She emphasizes the need for deeper analysis. “We must explore why women aren’t given the same opportunities. Is it early educational choices, systemic biases, or career progression barriers? The only way forward is to ensure fairness, where ability—not gender—dictates success.”

Challenges and opportunities of the digital era

With the rapid advancement of technology, digitalization, and artificial intelligence (AI), the maritime workforce is undergoing a major transformation. “These developments bring both challenges and opportunities,” Elpi explains.

Automation will replace some roles, but new jobs will emerge, particularly in tech-heavy fields like AI management, robotics, and data analysis.

For Elpi, this technological shift presents a unique opportunity: By embracing digital transformation, we can create more flexible working environments that help bridge gender gaps and support a more diverse workforce. Companies must invest in training and upskilling programs to prepare employees for these changes, she says.

Change can be challenging, but it can also be exciting and one thing is certain: we must not repeat past mistakes. To succeed, we must include 100% of the potential workforce in our maritime future.

Looking ahead: Maritime’s next generation

The future of shipping depends on its ability to attract and nurture the next generation of maritime professionals. As Europort 2025 approaches, these crucial discussions will take center stage.