Franke Appointed To Executive Secretary Of WIMOs

Women in Maritime Operations (WIMOs) announced on November 6 the appointment of the organization’s new executive secretary, Hillary Franke.

“I am honored to take on the role of secretary for WIMOs and to contribute to the continued success of this organization,” Franke said. “As I assume this position, I am committed to maintaining accurate records, supporting transparent communication and ensuring that our meetings and events are organized and effective.”

Franke currently serves as the director of operations at Encore Dredging Partners, with headquarters based in League City, Texas. Her expertise focuses on project delivery, workforce leadership and operational planning for large infrastructure projects. She brings more than 17 years of experience in dredging and marine construction to her position at WIMOs. As executive secretary, Franke will work with the WIMOs leadership team to serve more than 1,200 members.

“Holding this position is both a privilege and an opportunity to strengthen the relationships that makes WIMOs such an empowering network,” Franke said. “I look forward to working with our board, chapters and members to support transparency and provide the resources each chapter needs to succeed. My goal is to help WIMOs continue advancing its mission by serving with integrity, dedication and a genuine passion for the organization’s values and purpose.”

Franke succeeds April-Hope Wareham, WIMOs cofounder and longest-serving board member. According to WIMOs, Wareham will be moving on from the maritime industry to take a position as corporate continuous improvement manager at Post Consumer Brands.

“It has been an honor to serve WIMOs and our members over the past eight years,” Wareham said. “When I joined in 2017, we had only a few dozen members and many big dreams. Today, we have more than 1,200 members across four continents and have built programs that will continue to elevate, educate and empower women in maritime operations for years to come. I am excited to welcome Hillary into this role and look forward to seeing WIMOs continue to thrive under new leadership.”

WIMOs Executive President Taylor Dickerson expressed her gratitude for Wareham’s dedication over the last eight years, as well as her excitement for Franke to join the WIMOs team.

“We are deeply grateful for April-Hope’s service, vision and commitment,” Dickerson said. “Her leadership helped shape WIMOs into the strong, connected and growing organization we are today. We are also thrilled to welcome Hillary. Her operational experience, passion for mentorship and drive for excellence make her the ideal successor. Per our bylaws, April-Hope will remain in an advisory capacity for up to one year to support a smooth transition, and we are thankful for that continuity.”

WIMOs is a non-profit organization that seeks to support, advance and promote women in the maritime industry. Founded in 2017, the organization supports members in 31 states and five countries, including Nigeria, Canada, Iran, Morocco and South Africa.