Maritime Careers, Mentorship & Expanding Access

In Episode 269 of the Women Offshore Podcast, we speak with Erica Lichty, a lifelong Salish Sea mariner, and fifth-generation Northwest waterwoman whose career reflects a deep commitment to both maritime operations and expanding access to the industry.

A graduate of California State University Maritime Academy, Erica’s experience spans offshore oil rigs, supply vessels, dynamic positioning operations, passenger vessels, ferries, and maritime education. Today, she brings that operational experience into her advocacy work as founding president of SEASTR PNW, a nonprofit focused on socio-environmental advocacy and creating pathways into maritime careers.

Erica shares how her experiences on the water have shaped her approach to mentorship, safety, and representation, and why making maritime careers more visible and accessible matters. From supporting people who may never have seen a place for themselves in the industry to working toward her own goal of returning to the pilothouse, Erica offers a perspective on what it takes to build a more inclusive and sustainable maritime workforce.

Listen to hear how lived experience, community advocacy, and mentorship can help open doors for the next generation of mariners.