10-Day Apprentice Mate of Towing Vessels on Western Rivers
Comprehensive 10-day U.S. Coast Guard approved training course designed to prepare students for the Apprentice Mate (Steersman) of Towing Vessels license on Western Rivers. This intensive program provides essential knowledge and hands-on skills required to operate towing vessels safely and professionally on inland waterways.
Course Overview:
This course provides in-depth instruction in all subject areas required by Coast Guard regulations for the new Steersman of Towing Vessels license. Upon successful completion, students will receive a certificate of completion which the Coast Guard will honor in lieu of required exams. Our experienced instructors bring real-world expertise from decades of towboat operations on the nation’s river systems.
What You’ll Learn:
• Vessel navigation and piloting on Western Rivers
• Rules of the Road (Inland Navigation Rules)
• Vessel handling and maneuvering towing vessels
• Barge handling and tow configuration
• Lock and dam operations
• Bridge navigation and clearance calculations
• Weather interpretation for river operations
• Emergency procedures and safety protocols
• Radio communications and proper terminology
• Chart reading and river navigation
• Towing gear and equipment
• Federal regulations and compliance requirements
Course Components:
Navigation and Piloting:
Master the fundamentals of navigating Western Rivers, including reading river charts, understanding navigation aids, calculating distances and ETA, and planning safe passages through varying water conditions.
Rules of the Road:
Comprehensive coverage of Inland Navigation Rules, right-of-way situations, sound signals, lights and shapes, and special circumstances encountered in river and inland waterway operations.
Vessel Operations:
Hands-on instruction in towing vessel handling, including making up and breaking down tows, wire and cable operations, coupling and uncoupling barges, and safe deck operations.
Locks and Bridges:
Detailed training on lock approaches, locking procedures, communications with lock operators, bridge clearance calculations, and safe passage through restricted waterways.
Who Should Attend:
• Deckhands seeking to advance to steersman positions
• Entry-level personnel pursuing careers in towing operations
• Maritime professionals transitioning to inland towing
• Anyone seeking USCG Apprentice Mate (Steersman) credential
• Current crew members looking to upgrade their qualifications
Course Schedule:
• Duration: 10 consecutive days
• Daily sessions: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Combination of classroom instruction and practical exercises
• Final examination on last day
Prerequisites:
• Valid TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification Credential)
• Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) or ability to obtain one
• Physical ability to perform deck operations
• At least 18 years of age
• Ability to read, write, and communicate in English
What to Bring:
• Valid government-issued photo ID
• TWIC card
• Notebook and writing materials
• Calculator
• Work clothes for practical exercises
• Safety boots
Certification:
Upon successful completion of the course and final examination, students will receive:
• Certificate of Completion accepted by USCG in lieu of examination
• Documentation for MMC credential application
• Course materials and reference guides
• Eligibility to apply for Apprentice Mate (Steersman) of Towing Vessels license
Career Opportunities:
This certification opens doors to rewarding careers in the maritime towing industry, including positions as:
• Steersman/Pilot on inland towing vessels
• Relief pilot
• Watch stander
• Progression to Mate and Master positions
Tuition: $1,750
(Includes all course materials, examination fees, and certificate)
Call Now For Reservation (662) 892-0130