As the first female captain at Algoma, Munden is charting new territory, although she’s quick to point out that her ascent to the job is no different because she’s female. She attained her position through hard work, a constant drive to learn more and the understanding that success is a result of teamwork. 

Advancing a Career 

Munden had no plans to build a career in the maritime industry. Still, she took the Nautical Science Program, which combines academics with practical application of how to safely navigate and operate marine vessels.  Her family and friends encouraged her to stick with the program and advance her career. “I gave it a shot, and it’s working out so far,” she said. 

Her reputation as a competent and reliable officer grew quickly, and she was promoted from deck officer to chief officer to captain, a position she’s held since 2017. She now leads her ship, the Algoma Sault, as part of the domestic dry bulk fleet. Every year since she’s been its captain, the ship has received the Algoma’s Gold Flag of Operational Excellence. 

Munden is a continuous learner, striving to advance in her personal and professional life. “Every day presents new challenges and experiences, obstacles and lessons. I take great satisfaction and pride in meeting all these elements, resolving them where needed and learning from them,” she said. She’s taken numerous courses required by the Department of Transportation and Algoma but has also looked to educate herself outside of the maritime world. She’s currently learning French.  

Mentoring the Future 

While self-improvement is always on her radar, Munden also has thrived in sharing her knowledge with others. In 2021, Algoma developed a training program for new captains to the company. Munden has been a mentor in the program since its inception, and every new captain is assigned to train under Munden on her vessel. On board, she allows trainees to be at the controls, believing hands-on training builds skills and confidence for leading ships and enriching personal lives. Students describe her training as invaluable with her ability to apply the right pressure, support and knowledge that bring out the best in each trainee.  

Her colleagues have said her training has an immediate impact on the next generation of captains as she’s a role model as well as an ambassador for female seafarers. While Munden is quick to support female mariners, she provides the same leadership and encouragement to all mariners, recognizing everyone’s value. Crew describe Munden as “firm and fair with the ability to maintain a professional and approachable demeanor regardless of the hour, level of fatigue, or the subject.” She treats everyone with respect and dignity, always acknowledging her crew and their contributions.   

There are still few women in senior shipboard positions. Munden works to change that as a leader at the forefront of creating women-empowered workplaces. She uses every opportunity to promote opportunities in the marine industry and speaks publicly about her professional life, which helps remove stereotypes of a “sailor’s life at sea.” To further encourage women, she is a mentor with Women in the Offshore Industry and is part of the DEI Council at Algoma.  

Willing to train and coach anyone with potential, Munden is quick to point out that she attained her position through effort, not because she was a woman. “I worked hard, and not only met all the job requirements but excelled at them,” she said. “Like everyone else, I had to earn the job, and that is an achievement.”  

Biggest Achievement 

Outside of work, she cites her biggest achievement as being a single mom to her son. “Seeing him tell people his mom is a captain on a big boat fills my heart,” she said.  

Munden’s award nominator concluded, “Captain Munden’s keen approach to training and development has a significant IMPACT! in our industry and our need to provide an equitable and inclusive environment where everyone is welcomed and supported based on their individual needs.” With a master class captain’s license that enables her to crew ships anywhere in the world, the Great Lakes is fortunate to have her.