Women In Maritime Operations (WIMOs), an international nonprofit dedicated to recruiting, retaining, advancing, and promoting women in maritime operations, has launched a new chapter in Middle Tennessee. The chapter will encompass the Highland Rim and Nashville Basin regions.
The launch marks an expansion of WIMOs’ network into one of the nation’s growing maritime hubs, the group said. The new chapter includes about 30 members from five companies, reflecting increasing regional engagement in maritime operations, it added.
The chapter’s elected officers are Ami Fleming, president – business relationship manager, lead at Ingram Barge Company; Stephanie Higgins, vice president – business relationship manager at Ingram Barge Company; Erica Ecken, secretary – logistics services partner at Ingram Barge Company; and Michele Adcock, treasurer – scale master at Pine Bluff Materials.
“Serving as president offers a meaningful opportunity to lead and support women in the maritime industry,” said Fleming. “The skills I’ve developed through years of project leadership – team management, strategic planning, and effective communication – are directly applicable to this role. I will leverage these strengths to continue growing the Middle Tennessee chapter and continue sharing the mission of WIMOs. I truly believe in the value this organization brings and am honored to help lead it forward.”
Ludy Brinck, executive vice president of WIMOs, praised the chapter’s formation and leadership. “We’re excited to expand our presence into Middle Tennessee,” Brinck said. “Ami has been a driving force behind this chapter from day one. She was among the first in the region to step up and lead, and her election as president speaks volumes about her dedication and commitment to this community. We’re proud of Ami and thrilled to welcome the entire leadership team into WIMOs’ board of directors network. Their work will be key in creating opportunities and support for women across the maritime sector in this region.”
Founded in 2017, WIMOs now operates across 31 U.S. states and Nigeria, Canada, Iran, Morocco, and South Africa as part of its mission to unite and empower women professionals in the global maritime industry. The a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization has 1,200 registered members.
