Women Offshore Podcast

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 exper...

In Episode 268 of the Women Offshore Podcast, we speak with Brandon Vecchio, Financial Advisor and Co-Founder of Axios Financial Group. Brandon specializes in comprehensive financial planning for maritime professionals, oil and gas workers, small business owners, and others looking to build financial independence on their own terms. His connection to the maritime industry began through Captain Glenn Koshak, who introduced him to the industry and helped him better understand the unique careers...

In Episode 267 of the Women Offshore Podcast, we speak with Gretel Desirée Velázquez Peña, a Port Facility Security Officer at Hazesa in the Port of Manzanillo, Colima, Mexico. Gretel began her maritime career as a cadet at the Mazatlán Nautical School and has since worked across several areas of the industry. Her experience includes offshore operations on oil platforms as a Second Deck Officer, coordinating maritime traffic as a VTS officer, and her current role in port facility security. In...

In Episode 266, host Liz Schmidt sits down with Lili Colby, Industry & Outreach Representative at Mustang Survival, for a deep‑dive into personal water safety and the essential care required to keep your inflatable lifejacket performing at its best offshore. Together, they break down what mariners should know about maintaining inflatable PFDs, how to inspect your gear before every hitch, and the simple habits that ensure your PPE is truly ready when you need it most. Lili shares Mustang S...

In Episode 265 of the Women Offshore Podcast, we speak with Captain Kamila Calko, MNI, founder and owner of SeaLight and founder and director of SeaLight Sisters. Kamila’s maritime career began at 19, when she applied to become a ship’s captain despite having no seafaring background. That first opportunity led to more than two decades at sea and experience aboard more than 30 vessels, including BC Coast tugboats, Canadian Coast Guard icebreakers, and passenger ro-ro ferries. She eventually be...