Applications have opened for a new 10-month mentoring programme, designed to assist and support women boatbuilders.

This month (March 2023), the Women in Boatbuilding CIC (community interest company) launched its first official mentoring program with the support of The Worshipful Company of Shipwrights. The programme offers 10 boatbuilders the opportunity to be matched and mentored by women working in the industry in a similar or complementary role.

Women in Boatbuilding says the aim is that monthly meet-ups will help focus, support and progress women in the industry – and their stories will encourage more women to join it. The mentors will also be supported in the programme with Zoom meetings to review progress and address any challenges, as well as provide a focus on their own career development.

Mentoring is designed to benefit both mentee and mentor – growing the community and support network in a male-dominated industry where boatbuilders can often be the sole woman in the yard.

Belinda Joslin has been getting to know women in the industry and the issues they face since the start of Women in Boatbuilding on Instagram in 2021. “By creating a supportive community, we hope to retain professionals so that they can grow their skills and become the boatbuilding leaders of the future,” she says.

Applications for mentee positions are now open on the Women in Boatbuilding Website for a month. The pairing process will then take place, and mentorships will start in May for 10 pairings for 10 months.

“The Shipwrights are delighted to be helping the Women in Boatbuilding team take their CIC to the next level,” says Laura Budgen, prime warden of the Shipwrights. “By mentoring women working hands-on and showcasing their work on social media, we hope more women are inspired to join and remain in the marine industry.”

Applications for the programme are open until 8 April 2023.

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