River School

Tankerman-Combined Course
2024-11-11 08:00 - 2024-11-16 20:00 (America/Chicago) | The River School, 6812 Crumpler Ste. 100, Olive Branch, MS, 38654, United States
Four-day, Coast Guard approved cargo course. Required initial training for new tank barge tankermen who will handle dangerous liquids.
Combined with:
Two-day course, Coast Guard approved. Required initial training for all tank barge tankermen. This course combines classroom lecture with practical fire fighting training utilizing a custom fire trailer.
Tuition: $1,550
Call Now For Reservation +19015257001

Chart Navigation Course
2025-01-06 - 2025-01-10 | The River School, 6812 Crumpler Ste. 100, Olive Branch, MS, 38654, United States
The River School is excited to announce its new Chart Navigation Course. This comprehensive course covers essential topics such as reading nautical charts, plotting courses, and understanding navigational aids, ensuring participants gain the confidence and expertise needed for safe and successful voyages. With a focus on personalized instruction, each class is limited to just 6 seats, allowing for an intimate learning environment where students can receive individualized attention. The course is priced at $750, offering excellent value for the high-quality training. Secure your spot today and embark on a journey to mastering the art of chart navigation!

Western Rivers to Inland Upgrade
2025-01-27 08:00 - 2025-01-31 17:00 | The River School, 6812 Crumpler Ste. 100, Olive Branch, MS, 38654, United States
Five-Day Coast Guard Approved Course Presented As A Classroom Course Intended To Provide The Student With A Solid Academic Foundation In Chart Navigation For Great Lakes And Inland Waters
Tuition: $750

10-Day Steersman - Western Rivers
2025-03-10 08:00 - 2025-03-19 16:00 | The River School, 6812 Crumpler Ste. 100, Olive Branch, MS, 38654, United States
10-day course includes in-depth instruction in all subject areas required by Coast Guard regulations for the new Steersman of Towing Vessels license. Upon successful completion, the student will receive a certificate of completion which the Coast Guard will honor in lieu of required exams.
Tuition: $1750
Call Now For Reservation +19015257001

10-Day Steersman
2025-04-14 08:00 - 2025-04-23 04:00 | The River School, 6812 Crumpler Ste. 100, Olive Branch, MS, 38654, United States
10-day course includes in-depth instruction in all subject areas required by Coast Guard regulations for the new Steersman of Towing Vessels license. Upon successful completion, the student will receive a certificate of completion which the Coast Guard will honor in lieu of required exams.Casual Attire.
Tuition: $1750
Call Now For Reservation +19015257001

Inland chart Navigation
2025-08-11 08:00 - 2025-08-15 20:00 | The River School, 6812 Crumpler Ste. 100, Olive Branch, MS, 38654, United States
Five-day Coast Guard approved course presented as a classroom course intended to provide the student with a solid academic foundation in chart navigation for Great Lakes and Inland Waters
Tuition: $750
Call Now For Reservation +19015257001

River Radar Observer
2026-02-12 08:00 - 2026-02-14 16:00 | Buffalo, Iowa
Three-day Coast Guard-approved course, required initial training for operators of towing vessels equipped with radar on Western Rivers. Class lectures are combined with full-function simulation on Furuno radars. Ship motion, multiple contacts in river scenarios, and environmental effects are just some of the capabilities of the radar simulator.
Tuition: $550
Call Now For Reservation (662) 892-0130

Marine Basic Fire Fighting Course
2026-02-26 08:00 - 2026-02-27 17:00 | Buffalo, Iowa
U.S. Coast Guard-approved Basic Fire Fighting training course designed for mariners seeking Western Rivers certification. This intensive 12-hour program provides essential firefighting knowledge and hands-on practical training required for commercial maritime operations on the Western Rivers.
Course Overview:
Meets the requirements of Western Rivers Basic Fire Fighting. This course combines classroom instruction with realistic hands-on firefighting exercises using live fire scenarios. Students will gain the skills and confidence needed to respond effectively to shipboard fire emergencies.
What You’ll Learn:
• Fire prevention and fire safety aboard vessels
• Classification of fires and appropriate extinguishing agents
• Fire detection and alarm systems
• Fixed and portable firefighting equipment
• Firefighting tactics and strategies
• Search and rescue procedures in smoke-filled spaces
• Emergency procedures and team coordination
• Hazardous materials and fire risks
• Fire containment and boundary cooling
• Post-fire procedures and safety protocols
Course Components:
Classroom Instruction
Comprehensive coverage of fire theory, fire prevention, detection systems, firefighting equipment, and emergency response procedures. Students learn the science of fire, types of fires, and proper selection of extinguishing agents.
Practical Firefighting Exercises:
Hands-on training in full firefighting gear, including:
• Hose handling and nozzle techniques
• Live fire extinguishment exercises
• Team firefighting operations
Who Should Attend:
• Merchant mariners requiring Western Rivers Basic Fire Fighting certification
• Deck and engine room personnel
• Maritime professionals renewing Western Rivers credentials
• Anyone working aboard commercial vessels
• Vessel operators and crew members
Course Schedule:
• Duration: 12 hours
Prerequisites:
• Valid TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification Credential)
• Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) or application in process
• At least 18 years of age
• Medical fitness for firefighting training
What to Bring:
• Valid government-issued photo ID
• TWIC card
• PFD and work boots
Important Notes:
• All firefighting gear and equipment provided
• Students must complete both classroom and practical components
• Weather conditions may affect outdoor practical exercises
Certification:
Upon successful completion of both classroom instruction and practical exercises, students will receive:
• Western Rivers Basic Fire Fighting Certificate (valid for 5 years)
• Course completion documentation for USCG records
• Certificate accepted worldwide for Western Rivers compliance
• Documentation for MMC endorsement
Tuition: $400
(Includes all course materials, use of firefighting equipment, and Western Rivers certification)
*When combined with the Western Rivers Radar Course a discount of $50 is applied for a total duo course fee of $900.
Call Now For Reservation (662) 892-0130
Note: This course fulfills the Basic Fire Fighting requirement under Western Rivers Regulation and is recognized by the U.S. Coast Guard and international maritime authorities.

Tankerman & Tank Barge Fire Fighting Class
2026-05-25 08:00 - 2026-05-30 16:00 | Home2 Suites, 7595 Lodging Lane, Olive Branch, MS, 38654, United States
Four-day Coast Guard-approved cargo course. Required initial training for new tank barge tankermen who will handle dangerous liquids.
Combined with:
Two-day course, Coast Guard approved. Required initial training for all tank barge tankermen. This course combines classroom lecture with practical fire firefighting training utilizing a custom fire trailer.
Course Overview:
This comprehensive six-day training program provides the essential knowledge and practical skills required for tankermen operating dangerous liquid cargo systems on tank barges. Students will receive Coast Guard-approved certification upon successful completion.
What You’ll Learn:
• Proper cargo handling procedures for dangerous liquids
• Tank barge operations and safety protocols
• Emergency response and fire firefighting techniques
• Regulatory compliance and documentation
• Hands-on practical exercises with fire suppression equipment
• Risk assessment and hazard mitigation strategies
Course Components:
Tankerman – Dangerous Liquids (Days 1-4):
Covers cargo operations, transfer procedures, tank cleaning, gas freeing, and safety management specific to dangerous liquid cargoes. Students will learn proper use of cargo systems, emergency shutdown procedures, and spill prevention measures.
Tank Barge Fire Fighting (Days 5-6):
Intensive practical training using our custom fire trailer facility. Learn firefighting theory, equipment operation, and hands-on suppression techniques specific to marine cargo fires.
Who Should Attend:
• Individuals seeking initial tankerman credentials
• Deck officers and crew working on tank vessels
• Maritime professionals requiring certification renewal
• Anyone involved in barge cargo operations
Course Schedule:
• Daily sessions: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Duration: 6 consecutive days
• Mix of classroom instruction and practical exercises
Prerequisites:
• Valid TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification Credential)
• Basic safety training (BST) or equivalent
• Physical ability to participate in hands-on training exercises
What to Bring:
• Work clothes suitable for outdoor training
• Steel-toed boots
• Safety glasses
• Notebook and writing materials
Certification:
Upon successful completion, students will receive:
• Coast Guard-approved Tankerman – Dangerous Liquids certificate
• Tank Barge Fire Fighting certificate
• Course completion documentation for credential applications
Tuition: $1,550
Call Now For Reservation (662) 892-0130

River Radar Observer & Marine Basic Fire Fighting
2026-06-01 08:00 - 2026-06-05 16:00 | Home2 Suites, 7595 Lodging Lane, Olive Branch, MS, 38654, United States
This intensive, Coast Guard-approved course is specifically designed for mariners seeking comprehensive training in both river radar operation and marine fire safety. Over five days, participants will earn two crucial certifications: River Radar Observer and Marine Basic Fire Fighting.
The program begins with three days focused on radar operation for towing vessels on Western Rivers. Instruction combines expert-led lectures with immersive simulation using advanced Furuno radar systems. Students will gain hands-on experience managing ship motion, monitoring and tracking multiple contacts in complex river scenarios, and adapting to changing environmental conditions. The radar training meets all initial certification requirements for operators.
Following radar training, the course introduces two days of Marine Basic Fire Fighting, providing vital knowledge and skills to prevent, respond to, and control onboard fires. This segment emphasizes river-specific safety protocols, practical firefighting techniques, and emergency preparedness.
Upon completion, students will have mastered:
• Safe and effective operation of radar systems for towing vessels
• Interpretation and response to real-world river navigation challenges
• Advanced tracking and ship motion analysis
• Fire prevention, detection, and emergency response procedures
• Hands-on firefighting skills tailored to the marine environment
Class Dates: June 1st through 5th, 2026
Tuition: $900
Call Now for Reservation: (662) 892-0130

10-Day Apprentice Mate of Towing Vessels on Western Rivers
2026-06-08 08:00 - 2026-06-17 16:00 | Home2 Suites, 7595 Lodging Lane, Olive Branch, MS, 38654, United States
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
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
Class Dates: June 8th through 17th, 2026
Tuition: $1,750
(Includes all course materials, examination fees, and certificate)
Call Now For Reservation: (662) 892-0130

River Radar Observer & Marine Basic Fire Fighting
2026-06-29 08:00 - 2026-07-03 16:00 | Home2 Suites, 7595 Lodging Lane, Olive Branch, MS, 38654, United States
This intensive, Coast Guard-approved course is specifically designed for mariners seeking comprehensive training in both river radar operation and marine fire safety. Over five days, participants will earn two crucial certifications: River Radar Observer and Marine Basic Fire Fighting.
The program begins with three days focused on radar operation for towing vessels on Western Rivers. Instruction combines expert-led lectures with immersive simulation using advanced Furuno radar systems. Students will gain hands-on experience managing ship motion, monitoring and tracking multiple contacts in complex river scenarios, and adapting to changing environmental conditions. The radar training meets all initial certification requirements for operators.
Following radar training, the course introduces two days of Marine Basic Fire Fighting, providing vital knowledge and skills to prevent, respond to, and control onboard fires. This segment emphasizes river-specific safety protocols, practical firefighting techniques, and emergency preparedness.
Upon completion, students will have mastered:
• Safe and effective operation of radar systems for towing vessels
• Interpretation and response to real-world river navigation challenges
• Advanced tracking and ship motion analysis
• Fire prevention, detection, and emergency response procedures
• Hands-on firefighting skills tailored to the marine environment
Class Dates: June 29th through July 3rd, 2026
Tuition: $900
Call Now for Reservation: (662) 892-0130

10-Day Apprentice Mate of Towing Vessels on Western Rivers
2026-07-06 08:00 - 2026-07-15 16:00 | Home2 Suites, 7595 Lodging Lane, Olive Branch, MS, 38654, United States
This comprehensive 10-day Coast Guard-approved training program provides in-depth instruction across all subject areas required for the Steersman of Towing Vessels license on Western Rivers. Designed for aspiring maritime professionals, this course equips students with the essential knowledge and skills needed to advance their careers in the towing industry.
The curriculum covers critical topics including vessel navigation, towing operations, rules of the road, vessel handling in various conditions, safety procedures, emergency response protocols, and regulatory compliance. Through a combination of classroom instruction, practical exercises, and real-world scenario training, students gain a thorough understanding of the responsibilities and competencies required for this vital maritime position.
Experienced instructors guide students through each module, ensuring mastery of both theoretical concepts and practical applications. The course emphasizes hands-on learning and prepares students for the challenges they will face operating towing vessels on Western Rivers.
Upon successful completion of this 10-day program, students will receive a certificate of completion that the Coast Guard will honor in lieu of required exams when applying for the Steersman of Towing Vessels license.
Class Dates: July 6th through 15th, 2026
Tuition: $1750

10-Day Apprentice Mate of Towing Vessels on Western Rivers
2026-08-17 08:00 - 2026-08-26 16:00 | Home2 Suites, 7595 Lodging Lane, Olive Branch, MS, 38654, United States
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
