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#WomensHistoryMonth Captain Nancy Wagner was the first female California Bar Pilot, sworn in by the Board of Pilot Commissioners in 1990 as the first woman to serve as a maritime pilot in the United States. A trailblazer in the industry, she graduated from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point in 1978 as part of the first class of women admitted to federal service academies. She earned her master’s license in 1985 and became the first female Kings Point graduate to achieve this credential. Wagner faced significant challenges early in her career, including skepticism from male colleagues who questioned her qualifications and accused her of "taking a job away from a man with a family". Despite these obstacles, she rose to prominence as a San Francisco Bay ship pilot, navigating large vessels through the Golden Gate’s treacherous waters for 25 years before retiring in 2015. Her career also included service in the U.S. Navy Reserve, though regulations at the time barred her from serving on warships despite her expertise. Wagner’s legacy includes mentoring future generations of mariners and advocating for women in maritime professions. Her 2018 speech to Kings Point graduates encapsulated her philosophy: "Live your dream". She was inducted into the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy’s Hall of Distinguished Graduates for her maritime achievements. She remains a symbol of perseverance in a traditionally male-dominated field. San Francisco Bar Pilots Pacific Merchant Shipping Association Stas Margaronis Port of Oakland Port of San Francisco Elaine Forbes Kristi McKenney #Maritime Mike Jacob Bryan Brandes