In 2015, a group of women in coastal geoscience and engineering organized. We were tired of always discussing the lack of gender diversity at coastal events, in keynote speaker lineups, editorial boards, society chairs, and conference organizing committees. It was time for action. We launched WICGE during the International Coastal Symposium in Sydney in 2016 on International Women’s Day.
The Women in Coastal Geoscience and Engineering network was launched on the 8th of March, 2016
At the time that WICGE was launched, we were a small group that wanted to change things so that upcoming women in the field would have better experiences than we did. There have been many highlights including a telling survey of experiences of women in coastal geoscience and engineering, primary research on gender equity in the field, many in-person educational and networking events at various conferences, multiple awards, and the establishment of a mentoring program.
Now it is 2025, next year WICGE will be ten years old, and we are more than 700 members worldwide!
Have we changed things? Yes!
Have we achieved all our goals? Well…
While we have achieved many goals, the goal posts are always moving. Answering one question or resolving one issue unveils several more. We are excited to usher in ten years of WICGE with new expertise, ideas, and strength to continue to accomplish our mission of inspiring, supporting, and encouraging women in coastal geoscience and engineering at all stages of their careers, through networking, mentoring, and advocating for equal representation and opportunities.
A message from WICGE founding co-chairs, Ana Vila Concejo and Shari Gallop:
“We are proud to have served WICGE as founding Co-chairs from 2016 to 2023. Seven years and many actions later, we believe that it is the time to move on and pass the baton to new leadership so they can bring new ideas and enthusiasm to WICGE. We believe that this is the way to guarantee WICGE’s successful longevity, by moving aside to create space for new leadership opportunities…
… As WICGE turns ten, it is great to see the continued push for equity and the drive of the refreshed committee. We know that it is hard to work for collective gain in a field that strongly rewards individual achievements, and we thank you for your work. While our hope is that one day initiatives such as WICGE may no longer be needed, for now, let’s reach 1000 members and celebrate another ten years!”
Women in Coastal Geoscience and Engineering 