Aquaculture in the United States is an important piece of many local economies, yet limited data exist that represent the number of women working in aquaculture, nor their perspectives on the sector. This research sought to respond to that lack of data by collecting demographic information and first-hand perspectives from women working in the sub-sector of Virginia shellfish aquaculture. Semi-structured interviews with 23 women working in Virginia’s shellfish aquaculture industry targeted topics of job satisfaction, gender-specific experiences, and industry challenges along with opportunities. Many participants identified gender-specific challenges, however, more than half were confident that they would continue in the industry. Additionally, participants observed that more women were entering the workforce over the course of their careers. Other themes that emerged included challenges related to climate change (e.g., effects of rainfall-related salinity changes on their operation) and potential opposition toward floating aquaculture gear. Participants also discussed the value of feeling connected to other women in the field. This project provides a look into an underrepresented yet increasingly important population within Virginia’s shellfish aquaculture industry and sets the foundation for additional research to understand identity-based challenges and opportunities within U.S. aquaculture.