Same principles apply to most professions! Different certifications, but show up, be quiet, listen, work hard, be respectful, polite- 35 years as a policeman. Awesome video Ian.
@@TugTrashOutdoors i learn early in the oil fild/ship bulding always take the extra time to practice, or study. I was working at a ship yard they had this old time welder noticed I had the skills to become a great welder I just had trouble in some areas during lunch we ate in the shop and he worked with me. About the twic card anything under seal will show up even if it was as a juvinial and expunged.
I’ve been sailing for 18 years on tankers. And I absolutely appreciate and approve of this video. Great info and he kept it simple, and easy to understand.
Your advice on how to conduct yourself as a new hire is universally applicable to most, if not all, jobs. No one likes a know-it-all no matter what the situation. Some of the best advice I ever got as a young rookie lawyer was from the senior law partner who was fifty years older than me. He also gave me some Datil pepper plants to plant in my yard. One of his sayings is that things are hardly ever as bad or good as you first think they are. This is true.
When I first started repairing forklifts, the company put me with the most cantankerous grumpy person I ever met. I thought the company was trying to get me to quit. I listened, learned and tried to stay one step ahead of him without being told. He taught me a lot. Not only forklifts but life in general. He always told me “ don’t make the same mistakes I did boy”. We ended up becoming good friends. He taught me a lot about everything he knew. I am retired now at 54 and try to share what I learned thru life. RIP Bob!
I did Alaskan King crab fishing for 8 years. What you see on the shows is what’s it’s like minus the reality TV BS but being up 17-24 hours strait freezing cold hungry nauseous and being in constant pain etc. I learned a lot from a guy named Wade he was the meanest and most grumpy guy to everyone else but me because I gave him respect and knew the rule. “Know your role and shut your hole”. He also joked with me saying “you’re a giant 6’6 Ogre who could kick my ass” 🤣🤣 I guess being a big dude helped haha love the videos man God Bless.
I got my start working offshore on anchor, handling tugboats. I’m glad I did it, really makes me appreciate the job a do now, but I wouldn’t do it again. I work on drilling, rigs and production platforms now as a third-party rope access tech a whole lot more fun more money. And you were absolutely right. If you don’t have a solid homefront, it makes this job extremely hard my wife and kids don’t like me leaving but very supportive and it makes it a whole Lotta easier.
I wish I had somebody in the family that did what you do. 30 years ago I could have just jumped right into it, instead I ended up doing truck driving. When you're tired all you have to do is go find your bunk, truck driving you got to find a place to pull over someplace where the DOT ain't bothering you. And then you could be 1500 miles from home. By the way good video. Larry
Im 39 and made a career change from union carpenter to working on a tugboat..i grew up deep sea fishing days at a time but i always loved building things so career wise i joined the carpenter’s union (18 yrs) yet out on the ocean is where i would find my peace and the most at home..i thought about working on the tugboats that i would see from my jobsite everyday and said i need to do this better now or never so got the twic card, mmc and joined the boatman’s union just started applying to jobs..your videos really help realize this is for me and i would love that way of life on the sea..im glad i can cook my butt off knowing that would help win the crew over😂..Aloha and Mahalos🤙🏽
@@REDdirtMafiaGood luck brother!!.. im a union ironworker,, been doing it now for 30 years,, so im to old to change now,, but I used to think about it,, wish I had !!.. 😂
I was actually wondering just last week how one would get into the industry while watching one of your older tug videos. I gotta say, this was probably one of the best videos explaining the process of getting into any sort of industry I’ve seen. Cut to the chase, no long winded non important stuff. And the tip of actually listening to the old grouchy guy is spot on with almost any career path. Great video.
Really enjoy your videos. It's funny because I've been in a large city Fire Department for over 20 years now and everything you mentioned regarding new deckhands on the boat is the exact same thing I tell each of our new rookies coming into the firehouse. Funny how a lot of the common sense behaviors and work ethics we take for granted and were instilled in us by our elders have been lost. But that may just be the old grumpy guy in me coming out and I'm sure our grandparents were saying the same thing about us when we were growing up, lol!! Enjoy and be safe out there
such a good honest dude this is why i watch and follow you man just great heart willing to share it with the world love that god bless see u next time my man!
Stumbled in here and, Ian, this is gold! I am retired now but when I was 16, my parents gave me two lessons that I used in life. Mom- If someone else can do it, so can I. Dad- you're job is to make your supervisor look good. They should never have to stand before their boss and explain why you screwed up. Be on time, respectful, and do it right. I used those principles and went from a coal digging laborer to a Sr. Nuclear Mechanical Instructor/Supervisor. I got there by doing everything you said (minus the cooking, that was't required LOL).
We'll said Tug, I worked commercial and some residential carpentry my whole life. Early on as a green horn seems like everywhere you worked as a helper the higher paid carpenters didn't want you to learn but do what you told. Finally a gc hired me and offered responsibilities that opened my eyes and it was all over from there. Thanks for sharing.
Respect brother. Be safe an don't take any crap from the ones wanting to think they know everything. Christel is a good one . Great hard working family with some love in the house y'all.
Thanks for the video Ian...I got my first Master's License in '74 after starting with commercial shrimping, then getting my MMD to work on offshore vessels in the Oil and Mineral Field, began towing, supplying, and handling anchors for drilling rigs and barges, and have spent many years abroad. In 2012 I retired here in Hawaii. It was an experience and you did well...just keep a record of the name of the vessel, official number, gross/net tonnage, capacity sailed as, body of water, and no. of days sailed to keep upgrading your licenses. Aloha
Great vid. One of my first jobs was on a stand by boat in the gulf. I rode a basket down to the boat in 18' to 20' seas. When I jumped out the basket,I fell about 8 to 10'. I was raised in South LA. ON The water. Was a whole different experience. If you want too work on any offshore boat you better be prepared for pure hell for awhile.
@@TugTrashOutdoorshey, I’m a 19 year old commercial fisherman in alaska. Looking to get on with a tug company and start my career. Besides credentials, do you have any advice on how to start? I’m interested in getting a way to contact you
I’m a flooring contractor I had my license since 08 my dad did it he got his in 1977 what you are talking about in this video besides the things you need to be qualified to get on a boat is just life lessons and how you should approach any job the way you lay it out can translate to any job I have only seen some of your vids but respect your approach on explaining stuff to the young men and women coming up in any field just wanted to let you no that keep making great content unlike a lot of people on the web much respect
Im fixing to make that jump to the boats from the shipyards ..i am a late one for sure at 38...i have worked in the shipyard part of the industry since i was 20....im not enjoying the thougt of being on bottom again ...especially since being a foreman the last 5.5 years but i know with hard work and determination i can make it to the top again
Im a union ironworker,,i started over 30 years ago as an apprentice,,now im a project manager,,and yes!!.. when you start any career,,know your role!!,, everything you said applies!!,, safe travels captain!!
Previous Tug Thug here. Ran offshore and near coastal for several years. I miss working tugs, but moved on to cruise ships to further my engineering credentials. After spending two to three months gone for years, I couldn't stand being gone from my wife anymore. Hats off to y'all who can, as I miss the ocean. Fair winds, Skip!!
That's real informative man and it all makes perfect sense and yes absolutely do the next segment I love the tug videos it's interesting hearing that stuff
Just started my career with adm I'm 3 months in so far. This is all really good advice. I would say the job itself isn't even hard it's the climate and maybe getting along with other people. in my opinion, it completely beats 90% of other hard labor jobs. Especially if you're not chasing Wife and Kids. im shooting for trips in about a year.
Great knowledge comes from people who have been through everything your facing on a daily basis I was a trainer in the trucking business I explained this to everyone I trained its important to listen and understand what your learning if don't ask questions about if your doing it right or not or you don't show the effort to do it right and be proactive its going to be short and hard it's basic stuff like you said im no longer able to drive big rigs but I still help those who ask tug trash thanks bud I even learned something from this video God bless you my friend be safe out there always jw
EXCELENT video i must say. I'm 25, started in this career 5 years ago being just a kid for most of my shipmates but i followed the exact same tips you're giving here and i was very sucessful. I'm currently working on my firsts trips as pilot on a inland towboat carrying 4-6 barges in Paraná River down here in Argentina, this river's pretty massive though, so there's lots of ocean vessels and tugboats to assist in their manouver, a friend of mine work as capt of one of those tugs. I can confirm absolutly everything what you've said from the relationship with your partner or family ashore, to the hard work put into understanding and respecting each other of us aboard and more, all of this being so true even for an argentinian who has completly diferent culture, language and mindset, we seafarers are truly one big family in this regard, transcending many barriers. Anyway, i'm going to NY next month to do an english language course and i was suddenly curious on how colleagues in this bussines are but in the US so that's how i've found your videos. The reason i'm writing this is becouse since i'm learning your language and while i read you're from Florida i can't tell what your accent is, how would you define it? Midwestern? Floridean? Becouse i can understand you so incredible well like cristal clear whereas for me other southern people are really dificult to follow track. Thank you!
For those of you apprehensive about the ocean and swells but still want to be on a tug, check out harbor assist tugs! Non ocean going and all the same principles (and boredom) of ocean tugs!
My Dad was an inland tug engineer and use to take me out on the Tugs out of Oakland Ca. I was 13-14. He would stick me up in the wheel house and the captain was a woman named Genie. I swear she coulda kept Marlboro goin just on her habit alone. She use to have me call out and repeat docking orders over the radio. I loved it. Just wanted to say - ive always wanted to pursue a career in the maritime industry, and finding your videos Ive decided to pull the trigger on enrolling into MITAGS work boat/apprenticeship program. Love the videos, keep’m comin!
Great advice brotha, i retired 2 years ago i have a 1600 ton limited Oceans license, i sailed all over the world for 36 years on ATBs and like i used to tell all the young guys coming out of the sea schools you should be proud of your license, im proud of mine, but i can take that piece of paper into the engine room and show it to that engine.......it cant read, that engine doesn't give a crap about that paper, the paper just gets me a job!! as you explained a (Hawse piper) coming up its getting harder and harder for a Hawse piper to get into the industry, most companies are looking for the maritime grads...... my son is a hawse piper, he now has a 1600 ton mate near coastal license, making 700 a day in the great lakes on an ATB, he started as an ordinary seaman and gutted it out, i explained to him he didn't have any paperwork as an ordinary, you have to PAY YOUR DUES to get an AB ticket, then you are worth something to the company, they need that paperwork to satisfy contracts, before that you are as worthless as a pepper shaker!......( replaceable) you got no paperwork, so gut it out until you get that first endorsement! God speed!
I can imagine that a lot of people sign on thinking its going to be a cake walk, but get a rude awakening. I used to be a ski lift mechanic, and we would get the same people, especially ones that were afraid of heights that didn't realize that 85% of the work is in the air. Great video.. and thank you for the information!
great vid worked on tugs 50 years until i retired what you said about getting along is 100% true it only only takes 1 person too piss every body off no matter who they are the only thing i would like to add is don't be afraid to ask questions......safe sialing
Since Ive found you, Ive been curious about tug life and how you got into it and what not. Im in no hurry to join a crew, but damn do I love to know about things like this. Cant wait to see the next one in this series.
You can always work a port tug as well and go home most days if you are local or work a TOWboat and be able to go home in case of emergencies but yeah. You will definitely miss alot of dates. You just have to move stuff around to fall on your days off.
I really enjoyed the video Ian! I am probably to old and not really interested in getting a job on a tug but I do love watching and learning what you do on the tug! I can tell the advise you gave would be very crucial for someone wanting to get into that career path as well!
Watching your videos is rekindling my childhood obsession with tugboats lol Ive turned wrenches on construction equipment my whole life but part of me wishes in another life, i would be happy working on tugs
I've never had a desire to be at sea, let alone working at sea. BUT...I'm still fascinated by it, and have great respect for mariners and what they do. It makes me wish I was wired differently and that I wanted to be out there among them. Be safe, y'all!
This is not what I wanted to see but I thought you did a very good job of explaining everything so far and I did enjoy the video. I've been a sub for several years and have watched almost if not all of your videos and have enjoyed all of them ! Keep um coming !
I went to work for Marathon oil when I was young. I worked on a standby boat for oil rigs in the Gulf of Mexico. We were out a week and in a week. The first time out I made it 5 days before I got sick. The second time out we didn't get out of the river good before I got sick. That was my last trip out. I told the captain I would not be coming back. The boat I was on was small and only slept 4. You would have to strap yourself in bed so you didn't get thrown out of bed. I truly wished I could have gotten over my seasickness because I loved that job 😢
Thks bro, I'm on a 28 wk contract with a cruise ship, learning the ropes of this industry, definitely lookn into applying for tugs n tows as an AB afterwards
I served for 32 years in tugs as ch/eng.in sea going and river tugs working the winch when required as well as helping the deck crew in any weather to get the job done easier,on top of doing my own job down below. None of the deck crew ever volunteered to help me down below.what the skipper said made a lot of sense.The system works differently in the UK.Cheers,Roly🇬🇧.
Why are engineers always grumpy lol just kidding! Our deckhands will help in the engine room and I urge a lot of guys to go that route. More job opportunities
@@TugTrashOutdoors LOL. 😂😂as the tugs became more modern with recovery winches instead of capstans, and automated engines rooms the work obviously became easier,although down below I still had the cleaning,painting and routine maintenance do,after finishing a job while the skipper and deckhand went to bed or watched tv.We were 3 handed by then,so by then I was doing the deckhands job as well as my own for no extra pay.I decided to retire,the best days work I never did🤣. I had very many happy years in tugs sailing with some brilliant shipmates,but I was not sad to leave.I am not really grumpy even if my grown up kids think so.HaHaHa.cheers Roly🇬🇧.
Your advice for a “new” deckhand can apply to any job! I work in the medical manufacturing industry (37 years), I couldn’t tell you how many new hires either know it all, or do not have the desire to listen and learn. First impressions go a long way...
I work at the plants here in pasadena texas ...starting off as a 21 year old kid i was paired to take training from this very old grumpy white dude (im black lol) it started off very rough , but ill be turing 29 soon and ive been on shift with this guy for a few years now and hes tought me damn near everthing i know , and we sparked a weird strange odd friendship and sense of brotherhood , crazy how relatable this vidoe is in 2 completely different trades
I have a feeling you did just what I said… you worked hard and went the extra mile. Now you are part of that team. You’ll be the grumpy old guy soon enough! Remember to be patient with the new kid when ya are!
I applied to Norwegian cruise lines and they sent me an acceptance email and I got my TWIC and did my physical next is the 5 day training. NCL will pay for all your expense and schooling once you get to the ship. I am going to Hawaii 5m on 5w off. I think this would be perfect for a NEWBIE just to get familiar with the hours and working and sleeping with others. this will be easier than tugs and other NON cruise ships. if you can swing this, go where you want. IMO thats my plan
I agree with all that you said because when I worked on a tugboat I listened to my father and my uncle between the both of them I became a very good mate from them between the both of them they had a total of about one hundred years total
I watched the 14 days at SEA working on a TUGBOAT {Vlog style} and I enjoyed the video of the trip, cause I don't get to go no where much.. I've ❤️ issues . May GOD bless 🙏 and be with you out there 👍😎
This was literally the video I was looking for! For the passed several days I’ve been STRONGLY considering this. I actually have my TWIC card appointment tomorrow. Now I’ve been considering river running, harbor work, or sea going. Still trying to figure out which.
Spent 6 years active duty in the USCG, starting my career on Inland tugs next month, I have my 100 ton but I'm starting out as a OS. Thanks for the info !!
I just started at a tug boat company. No experience, ex con, almost 40. Right now I'm working in the yard hoping I can get my mc/twic. Not sure if I'll be able to yet. Well see. I just applied for a random job and didn't even know what it was. I've done a lot of maintenance, but this is a different world!
THANK YOU!! Very informative and very helpful. I started watching your fishing videos to remember what it was like growing up in Florida, but I got really interested in all of your tugboat videos (as new career to consider if I move back to the state).
My grandpa and all three of his younger brothers started out as deckhands on river barge line towboats. He and his youngest brother ended up chief engineers. One brother was an anssistant engineer and one a captain.
I am almost done getting my MMC. Lucky for me I have 11 years of Naval service as a Boatswains Mate so I get to start off as a AB. After 90 days of sea time I am going to go for my 100ton Captains license and branch out a bit and try a few things before I settle on just one.
Loved this I’m a Johnny 5 more input. Fishing is my out that gets me away from my daily life but learning what other have to do to make a living I work 45 years in the plumbing field and have learned five other trades in my years. Because more input more input. Never stop learning
I’m an hour from Corpus Christi. And I’m thinking bout getting into the deckhand world. I was oilfield previously. Definitely going to get the paperwork going for the creds
I spent a lot of years on the ocean. It was harder years ago when you had to call home on whiskey Oscar Mike. Lol and expensive. Now sat technology has made a huge difference in keep in touch. And you work 24 hours cause you don’t get to go home. lol and sleeping elbow to walls to hold you in your bunk. It’s a life. I miss it a lot
At 63 I just finished my first hitch as a cook for Foss Oceans. Did my basic in San Diego and it was great. After a full fruitful life in the HVAC industry in Seattle I could not be more stoked with my decision. FYI there always one cranky guy😂
Used to tell the guys to not worry about their old lady as Jodie was taking care of them while they were gone. Most guys don't last more than one trip no matter how tough. The tug life ain't no joke.
@@TugTrashOutdoors Had a Captain who owned a home on the St. Johns river, and each time the ship passed near his home he would blow the ships whistle to say hi to his wife at home. One day, an AB was chipping paint outside the wheelhouse when the Captain blew the whistle alerting his wife that the ship was passing by. The AB yelled out loudly, " Run Jody, Run" . The AB was getting off that trip anyway.
Time on a military vessel can be used towards a rating or license yes but it does not count day for day. It does not get you a high entry level if you hold an ordinary seaman you start out cleaning toilets like everyone else.
Great video Ian. I wish i would have known all this 40 years ago. After 40 years driving a truck it sounds like a lot of things in both jobs are similar. I'd sure like to know more. I've been disabled 5 years now but i still like to learn. I'll be looking forward to it.
I know for my captains license I also needed to be CPR/AED and first aid certified. I can’t say enough how important it is to get that even if not required for your employment. It will give you much more confidence in the event you ever need it. It is important to have as many people certified and trained as possible.
Ian what a great video series! Tug-boat life isn’t for me but your straight forward no B.S. ‘hey this is how it is’ talk should help any one that is looking to start. Even though I know this isn’t for me, keep going with the series I do think it’s valuable!
I was in the USN for 8 years as a Bosun's Mate. Nothing but hard work and watchstanding. I got out when I was 26. I'm 38 now, and the sea calls to me. Yeah it was hard work at times, boring at times, but there were a lot of great times too, and there's no comradery quite like being part of a crew. I'm a single guy, no kids, no surviving family, clean criminal record, in good physical shape, so the job is perfect for me. I'm really thinking about going for it.
Same principles apply to most professions! Different certifications, but show up, be quiet, listen, work hard, be respectful, polite- 35 years as a policeman. Awesome video Ian.
Great point!
@@TugTrashOutdoors i learn early in the oil fild/ship bulding always take the extra time to practice, or study. I was working at a ship yard they had this old time welder noticed I had the skills to become a great welder I just had trouble in some areas during lunch we ate in the shop and he worked with me. About the twic card anything under seal will show up even if it was as a juvinial and expunged.
Well said brother! A lot of this younger generation doesn't get that...
How can I apply for a job as a tugboat crew member, being from another foreigner?
@@maicogomez78Section 27 of the Jones act
I’ve been sailing for 18 years on tankers. And I absolutely appreciate and approve of this video. Great info and he kept it simple, and easy to understand.
Thanks man stay safe out there
Your advice on how to conduct yourself as a new hire is universally applicable to most, if not all, jobs. No one likes a know-it-all no matter what the situation. Some of the best advice I ever got as a young rookie lawyer was from the senior law partner who was fifty years older than me. He also gave me some Datil pepper plants to plant in my yard. One of his sayings is that things are hardly ever as bad or good as you first think they are. This is true.
Man I love that! Sounds like a great mentor. Plus a Datil pepper man
That’s some good advice.
After being in the USCG and USN, I never thought I'd come across another "Sea Daddy". Cheers to Tug Trash Outdoors.
😆
Had a friend who was a Capt on ocean tugs. He explained his work as 99% boredom and 1% terror. Rip Richard, Gone too early.
Shear terror
@@TugTrashOutdoors tugging is a contact sport
When I first started repairing forklifts, the company put me with the most cantankerous grumpy person I ever met. I thought the company was trying to get me to quit. I listened, learned and tried to stay one step ahead of him without being told. He taught me a lot. Not only forklifts but life in general. He always told me “ don’t make the same mistakes I did boy”. We ended up becoming good friends. He taught me a lot about everything he knew. I am retired now at 54 and try to share what I learned thru life. RIP Bob!
Yes sir
Head down, ears open, opinions to yourself. Words to work by for a beginner for sure. Gonna make my 14 son watch this one
Awesome
Your tips are universals for most all jobs.
For sure
I did Alaskan King crab fishing for 8 years. What you see on the shows is what’s it’s like minus the reality TV BS but being up 17-24 hours strait freezing cold hungry nauseous and being in constant pain etc. I learned a lot from a guy named Wade he was the meanest and most grumpy guy to everyone else but me because I gave him respect and knew the rule. “Know your role and shut your hole”. He also joked with me saying “you’re a giant 6’6 Ogre who could kick my ass” 🤣🤣 I guess being a big dude helped haha love the videos man God Bless.
😆😆😆
I was lived on an aircraft carrier for 10 years, and loved it.
Like a floating city
I got my start working offshore on anchor, handling tugboats. I’m glad I did it, really makes me appreciate the job a do now, but I wouldn’t do it again. I work on drilling, rigs and production platforms now as a third-party rope access tech a whole lot more fun more money. And you were absolutely right. If you don’t have a solid homefront, it makes this job extremely hard my wife and kids don’t like me leaving but very supportive and it makes it a whole Lotta easier.
Yes sir
A third party rope access tech ??
@@kenolsen208 third-party meaning I do not work directly for Chevron shell, etc. I work for another company that contracts us out.
You have definitely explained your life in a hand bag... Being away from family is the hardest part of your life.God Bless you for what you do....
Thank you!
I wish I had somebody in the family that did what you do. 30 years ago I could have just jumped right into it, instead I ended up doing truck driving. When you're tired all you have to do is go find your bunk, truck driving you got to find a place to pull over someplace where the DOT ain't bothering you. And then you could be 1500 miles from home. By the way good video. Larry
Thanks man
Was in the Navy for six years. Always thought you guys were the toughest SOB's in the fleet. Love your video's.
🙌🏽
Im 39 and made a career change from union carpenter to working on a tugboat..i grew up deep sea fishing days at a time but i always loved building things so career wise i joined the carpenter’s union (18 yrs) yet out on the ocean is where i would find my peace and the most at home..i thought about working on the tugboats that i would see from my jobsite everyday and said i need to do this better now or never so got the twic card, mmc and joined the boatman’s union just started applying to jobs..your videos really help realize this is for me and i would love that way of life on the sea..im glad i can cook my butt off knowing that would help win the crew over😂..Aloha and Mahalos🤙🏽
UPDATE: i got a job on a tug working as an OS/wiper..im striving towards becoming a Captain
@@REDdirtMafiaGood luck brother!!.. im a union ironworker,, been doing it now for 30 years,, so im to old to change now,, but I used to think about it,, wish I had !!.. 😂
All very good advice! Excellent words of wisdom. Love the advice about paying attention to grouchy old man! So true in everything, not only on a tug.
Absolutely!
I was actually wondering just last week how one would get into the industry while watching one of your older tug videos. I gotta say, this was probably one of the best videos explaining the process of getting into any sort of industry I’ve seen. Cut to the chase, no long winded non important stuff. And the tip of actually listening to the old grouchy guy is spot on with almost any career path.
Great video.
🤙🏽
You've just explained life!
I guess I did 😁
Really enjoy your videos. It's funny because I've been in a large city Fire Department for over 20 years now and everything you mentioned regarding new deckhands on the boat is the exact same thing I tell each of our new rookies coming into the firehouse. Funny how a lot of the common sense behaviors and work ethics we take for granted and were instilled in us by our elders have been lost. But that may just be the old grumpy guy in me coming out and I'm sure our grandparents were saying the same thing about us when we were growing up, lol!! Enjoy and be safe out there
Yes sir! Thanks
such a good honest dude this is why i watch and follow you man just great heart willing to share it with the world love that god bless see u next time my man!
Thank you
Stumbled in here and, Ian, this is gold! I am retired now but when I was 16, my parents gave me two lessons that I used in life. Mom- If someone else can do it, so can I. Dad- you're job is to make your supervisor look good. They should never have to stand before their boss and explain why you screwed up. Be on time, respectful, and do it right. I used those principles and went from a coal digging laborer to a Sr. Nuclear Mechanical Instructor/Supervisor. I got there by doing everything you said (minus the cooking, that was't required LOL).
Smart parents! You can have anything you want in life ya just have to go get it!
We'll said Tug, I worked commercial and some residential carpentry my whole life. Early on as a green horn seems like everywhere you worked as a helper the higher paid carpenters didn't want you to learn but do what you told. Finally a gc hired me and offered responsibilities that opened my eyes and it was all over from there. Thanks for sharing.
Yep ya have to pay your dues at any job to become a master
Really well done Video. Couldn't have been more clearer for the amount of time you had.
Much appreciated!
Respect brother. Be safe an don't take any crap from the ones wanting to think they know everything. Christel is a good one . Great hard working family with some love in the house y'all.
Thanks man
Great video and would love to see more of a day to day life on the Tugboat. Thanks for sharing your experience and knowledge
More to come!
Great video everything you said about pay attention and being proactive applies to every job in life. Great stuff
Absolutely!
Well said! Great video!! “Shower!” - it’s funny to me that you have to put that in, but some people must not shower. 😂
You would be surprised lol
Some guys almost need to be forced
20 year old girl tryin to get into the industry, this was super helpful thanks
Good luck!
Did you ever get in?
@@christopherjacquez8605 Nope! no one will hire me because I dont have experience? Not giving up tho
Thanks for the video Ian...I got my first Master's License in '74 after starting with commercial shrimping, then getting my MMD to work on offshore vessels in the Oil and Mineral Field, began towing, supplying, and handling anchors for drilling rigs and barges, and have spent many years abroad. In 2012 I retired here in Hawaii. It was an experience and you did well...just keep a record of the name of the vessel, official number, gross/net tonnage, capacity sailed as, body of water, and no. of days sailed to keep upgrading your licenses. Aloha
I did forget to mention logging your days! Very important
I was in the power industry for 38 years. What you described i can relate too. Great video, i remember my first day like it was yesterday.
That is awesome!
Great vid. One of my first jobs was on a stand by boat in the gulf. I rode a basket down to the boat in 18' to 20' seas. When I jumped out the basket,I fell about 8 to 10'. I was raised in South LA. ON The water. Was a whole different experience. If you want too work on any offshore boat you better be prepared for pure hell for awhile.
I’ve rode that basket!
Thanks Ian,I love all of your videos especially the ones about Tug boating,keep it up
Glad you like them!
@@TugTrashOutdoorshey, I’m a 19 year old commercial fisherman in alaska. Looking to get on with a tug company and start my career. Besides credentials, do you have any advice on how to start? I’m interested in getting a way to contact you
I’m a flooring contractor I had my license since 08 my dad did it he got his in 1977 what you are talking about in this video besides the things you need to be qualified to get on a boat is just life lessons and how you should approach any job the way you lay it out can translate to any job I have only seen some of your vids but respect your approach on explaining stuff to the young men and women coming up in any field just wanted to let you no that keep making great content unlike a lot of people on the web much respect
Yes sir you get exactly what I’m saying 💪🏽🇺🇸
Im fixing to make that jump to the boats from the shipyards ..i am a late one for sure at 38...i have worked in the shipyard part of the industry since i was 20....im not enjoying the thougt of being on bottom again ...especially since being a foreman the last 5.5 years but i know with hard work and determination i can make it to the top again
Im a union ironworker,,i started over 30 years ago as an apprentice,,now im a project manager,,and yes!!.. when you start any career,,know your role!!,, everything you said applies!!,, safe travels captain!!
🙌🏽
Previous Tug Thug here. Ran offshore and near coastal for several years. I miss working tugs, but moved on to cruise ships to further my engineering credentials. After spending two to three months gone for years, I couldn't stand being gone from my wife anymore. Hats off to y'all who can, as I miss the ocean. Fair winds, Skip!!
Thanks man!
That's real informative man and it all makes perfect sense and yes absolutely do the next segment I love the tug videos it's interesting hearing that stuff
Thanks! Will do!
Just started my career with adm I'm 3 months in so far. This is all really good advice. I would say the job itself isn't even hard it's the climate and maybe getting along with other people. in my opinion, it completely beats 90% of other hard labor jobs. Especially if you're not chasing Wife and Kids. im shooting for trips in about a year.
Sounds like you're already on the right track!
Great knowledge comes from people who have been through everything your facing on a daily basis I was a trainer in the trucking business I explained this to everyone I trained its important to listen and understand what your learning if don't ask questions about if your doing it right or not or you don't show the effort to do it right and be proactive its going to be short and hard it's basic stuff like you said im no longer able to drive big rigs but I still help those who ask tug trash thanks bud I even learned something from this video God bless you my friend be safe out there always jw
Thanks buddy
EXCELENT video i must say. I'm 25, started in this career 5 years ago being just a kid for most of my shipmates but i followed the exact same tips you're giving here and i was very sucessful. I'm currently working on my firsts trips as pilot on a inland towboat carrying 4-6 barges in Paraná River down here in Argentina, this river's pretty massive though, so there's lots of ocean vessels and tugboats to assist in their manouver, a friend of mine work as capt of one of those tugs. I can confirm absolutly everything what you've said from the relationship with your partner or family ashore, to the hard work put into understanding and respecting each other of us aboard and more, all of this being so true even for an argentinian who has completly diferent culture, language and mindset, we seafarers are truly one big family in this regard, transcending many barriers.
Anyway, i'm going to NY next month to do an english language course and i was suddenly curious on how colleagues in this bussines are but in the US so that's how i've found your videos. The reason i'm writing this is becouse since i'm learning your language and while i read you're from Florida i can't tell what your accent is, how would you define it? Midwestern? Floridean? Becouse i can understand you so incredible well like cristal clear whereas for me other southern people are really dificult to follow track. Thank you!
I grew up in south Florida and we really don’t have a southern accent or any accent
My grandpa worked on tug boats and my great grandfather was a merchant Mariner. I really want to follow in both of their footsteps.
Do it!
@@TugTrashOutdoors Thanks for your advice
For those of you apprehensive about the ocean and swells but still want to be on a tug, check out harbor assist tugs! Non ocean going and all the same principles (and boredom) of ocean tugs!
I worked on an inland pusher on the Mississippi and it was damn hard work. Lashing barges together is no joke.
You ain’t lying!
Thank you Ian awesome video brother it is what it is and I really thought about that kind of job. Thanks for clarifying. It’s all about the drive.
Thanks man
My Dad was an inland tug engineer and use to take me out on the Tugs out of Oakland Ca. I was 13-14. He would stick me up in the wheel house and the captain was a woman named Genie. I swear she coulda kept Marlboro goin just on her habit alone. She use to have me call out and repeat docking orders over the radio. I loved it. Just wanted to say - ive always wanted to pursue a career in the maritime industry, and finding your videos Ive decided to pull the trigger on enrolling into MITAGS work boat/apprenticeship program. Love the videos, keep’m comin!
That’s great! The industry needs people like you
Great advice brotha, i retired 2 years ago i have a 1600 ton limited Oceans license, i sailed all over the world for 36 years on ATBs and like i used to tell all the young guys coming out of the sea schools you should be proud of your license, im proud of mine, but i can take that piece of paper into the engine room and show it to that engine.......it cant read, that engine doesn't give a crap about that paper, the paper just gets me a job!! as you explained a (Hawse piper) coming up its getting harder and harder for a Hawse piper to get into the industry, most companies are looking for the maritime grads...... my son is a hawse piper, he now has a 1600 ton mate near coastal license, making 700 a day in the great lakes on an ATB, he started as an ordinary seaman and gutted it out, i explained to him he didn't have any paperwork as an ordinary, you have to PAY YOUR DUES to get an AB ticket, then you are worth something to the company, they need that paperwork to satisfy contracts, before that you are as worthless as a pepper shaker!......( replaceable) you got no paperwork, so gut it out until you get that first endorsement! God speed!
Yes sir! 🙌🏽
Pretty good of you to take the time to try and help people out.
Hopefully it helps a young person find a rewarding career
Great video Tug, We love you so does Crystal and your daughter !!!!!! Keep the videos coming!!!!
Thank you! Will do!
I can imagine that a lot of people sign on thinking its going to be a cake walk, but get a rude awakening. I used to be a ski lift mechanic, and we would get the same people, especially ones that were afraid of heights that didn't realize that 85% of the work is in the air. Great video.. and thank you for the information!
That’s funny! The older I get the less I like heights
great vid worked on tugs 50 years until i retired what you said about getting along is 100% true it only only takes 1 person too piss every body off no matter who they are the only thing i would like to add is don't be afraid to ask questions......safe sialing
Couldn't agree more on the asking questions part! Safety first!
Great insight! Thanks for sharing your knowledge!
My pleasure!
Since Ive found you, Ive been curious about tug life and how you got into it and what not. Im in no hurry to join a crew, but damn do I love to know about things like this. Cant wait to see the next one in this series.
Thanks bud
Man I wish I would have found this when i was fresh out of the NAvy. Safe travels Capt..
Thanks man
You can always work a port tug as well and go home most days if you are local or work a TOWboat and be able to go home in case of emergencies but yeah. You will definitely miss alot of dates. You just have to move stuff around to fall on your days off.
I really enjoyed the video Ian! I am probably to old and not really interested in getting a job on a tug but I do love watching and learning what you do on the tug! I can tell the advise you gave would be very crucial for someone wanting to get into that career path as well!
Glad you enjoyed it
Crazy bajas, we almost lost boat to storm, screaming banshee in waters up to my ankles, but lucky you, I mighty seaman!
Subscribed after watching this. Great advice for getting a job on it and life in general.
Thanks for the sub! 🤙🏽
Great insight! Keep up the great videos! Cheers for ireland
Thanks, will do!
Ian - I'd love to see a follow-on video on upgrading your license, please.
Good idea, I'll have to make that happen!
Watching your videos is rekindling my childhood obsession with tugboats lol Ive turned wrenches on construction equipment my whole life but part of me wishes in another life, i would be happy working on tugs
It’s a lifestyle for sure
I've never had a desire to be at sea, let alone working at sea. BUT...I'm still fascinated by it, and have great respect for mariners and what they do. It makes me wish I was wired differently and that I wanted to be out there among them. Be safe, y'all!
Well said! Thanks
Well said, Ian. Like others have already pointed out, this is universal and solid advice.
100%
This is not what I wanted to see but I thought you did a very good job of explaining everything so far and I did enjoy the video. I've been a sub for several years and have watched almost if not all of your videos and have enjoyed all of them ! Keep um coming !
I appreciate that! This one was different I know but hopefully it helps a young person start a rewarding career. Now back to catching and cooking
I went to work for Marathon oil when I was young. I worked on a standby boat for oil rigs in the Gulf of Mexico. We were out a week and in a week. The first time out I made it 5 days before I got sick. The second time out we didn't get out of the river good before I got sick. That was my last trip out. I told the captain I would not be coming back. The boat I was on was small and only slept 4. You would have to strap yourself in bed so you didn't get thrown out of bed. I truly wished I could have gotten over my seasickness because I loved that job 😢
Dam
Thks bro, I'm on a 28 wk contract with a cruise ship, learning the ropes of this industry, definitely lookn into applying for tugs n tows as an AB afterwards
Glad I could help! Good luck
Love your videos man keep up the amazing content
Thanks! Will do!
I served for 32 years in tugs as ch/eng.in sea going and river tugs working the winch when required as well as helping the deck crew in any weather to get the job done easier,on top of doing my own job down below.
None of the deck crew ever volunteered to help me down below.what the skipper said made a lot of sense.The system works differently in the UK.Cheers,Roly🇬🇧.
Why are engineers always grumpy lol just kidding! Our deckhands will help in the engine room and I urge a lot of guys to go that route. More job opportunities
@@TugTrashOutdoors LOL. 😂😂as the tugs became more modern with recovery winches instead of capstans, and automated engines rooms the work obviously became easier,although down below I still had the cleaning,painting and routine maintenance do,after finishing a job while the skipper and deckhand went to bed or watched tv.We were 3 handed by then,so by then I was doing the deckhands job as well as my own for no extra pay.I decided to retire,the best days work I never did🤣.
I had very many happy years in tugs sailing with some brilliant shipmates,but I was not sad to leave.I am not really grumpy even if my grown up kids think so.HaHaHa.cheers Roly🇬🇧.
Thanks For the Encouragement … Such Great advice. I started following you. So I can lear more !!! I’m soo excited
You got this!
Your advice for a “new” deckhand can apply to any job! I work in the medical manufacturing industry (37 years), I couldn’t tell you how many new hires either know it all, or do not have the desire to listen and learn. First impressions go a long way...
100%
Great video-very thorough!
I work at the plants here in pasadena texas ...starting off as a 21 year old kid i was paired to take training from this very old grumpy white dude (im black lol) it started off very rough , but ill be turing 29 soon and ive been on shift with this guy for a few years now and hes tought me damn near everthing i know , and we sparked a weird strange odd friendship and sense of brotherhood , crazy how relatable this vidoe is in 2 completely different trades
I have a feeling you did just what I said… you worked hard and went the extra mile. Now you are part of that team. You’ll be the grumpy old guy soon enough! Remember to be patient with the new kid when ya are!
I have so much to learn about this job but im very exited and hopefull to find a tugboat job
I applied to Norwegian cruise lines and they sent me an acceptance email and I got my TWIC and did my physical next is the 5 day training. NCL will pay for all your expense and schooling once you get to the ship. I am going to Hawaii 5m on 5w off. I think this would be perfect for a NEWBIE just to get familiar with the hours and working and sleeping with others. this will be easier than tugs and other NON cruise ships. if you can swing this, go where you want. IMO thats my plan
Good luck!!
I agree with all that you said because when I worked on a tugboat I listened to my father and my uncle between the both of them I became a very good mate from them between the both of them they had a total of about one hundred years total
Helps to have great mentors for sure
I’ve been tugboating for 25 years in the Hawaiian islands wouldn’t change careers for nothing.Great tutorial bradda.
Yall catch some big fish out there I seen the tugboat fish pics
I watched the 14 days at SEA working on a TUGBOAT {Vlog style} and I enjoyed the video of the trip, cause I don't get to go no where much.. I've ❤️ issues . May GOD bless 🙏 and be with you out there 👍😎
Thank you
I am a retired otr driver. understand the self sacrifice. on the high sea? different. love this.
You get it!
This was literally the video I was looking for! For the passed several days I’ve been STRONGLY considering this. I actually have my TWIC card appointment tomorrow. Now I’ve been considering river running, harbor work, or sea going. Still trying to figure out which.
Good luck man! It can be a great career
Spent 6 years active duty in the USCG, starting my career on Inland tugs next month, I have my 100 ton but I'm starting out as a OS. Thanks for the info !!
Best of luck!
I just started at a tug boat company. No experience, ex con, almost 40. Right now I'm working in the yard hoping I can get my mc/twic. Not sure if I'll be able to yet. Well see. I just applied for a random job and didn't even know what it was. I've done a lot of maintenance, but this is a different world!
Keep at it! Won’t happen over night but I bet your on a tug before you know it.
THANK YOU!! Very informative and very helpful. I started watching your fishing videos to remember what it was like growing up in Florida, but I got really interested in all of your tugboat videos (as new career to consider if I move back to the state).
Keep in mind you can live wherever and work on a tugboat. Just have to have a ride to the airport
True. I'm in the midwest cattle industry now and I enjoy it, but that type of work is pretty regionally specific.
Great video Ian! Not something for me, but you gave some valuable insights & tips for a lot of jobs.
Thanks for sharing!!!
Glad you enjoyed it
I' ve been working in a tugboat for eleven years, what you said is true.
🙌🏽 be safe out there
Great video Captain Tug , I worked on tugs when I got out of high school but I had to go where my heart was , commercial fishing
That's awesome
My grandpa and all three of his younger brothers started out as deckhands on river barge line towboats. He and his youngest brother ended up chief engineers. One brother was an anssistant engineer and one a captain.
Awesome
I am almost done getting my MMC. Lucky for me I have 11 years of Naval service as a Boatswains Mate so I get to start off as a AB. After 90 days of sea time I am going to go for my 100ton Captains license and branch out a bit and try a few things before I settle on just one.
Good luck!
Loved this I’m a Johnny 5 more input. Fishing is my out that gets me away from my daily life but learning what other have to do to make a living I work 45 years in the plumbing field and have learned five other trades in my years. Because more input more input. Never stop learning
100%
I’m an hour from Corpus Christi. And I’m thinking bout getting into the deckhand world. I was oilfield previously. Definitely going to get the paperwork going for the creds
I spent a lot of years on the ocean. It was harder years ago when you had to call home on whiskey Oscar Mike. Lol and expensive. Now sat technology has made a huge difference in keep in touch. And you work 24 hours cause you don’t get to go home. lol and sleeping elbow to walls to hold you in your bunk. It’s a life. I miss it a lot
Definitely not for everyone but a good life for some
At 63 I just finished my first hitch as a cook for Foss Oceans. Did my basic in San Diego and it was great. After a full fruitful life in the HVAC industry in Seattle I could not be more stoked with my decision. FYI there always one cranky guy😂
Awesome! Stay safe out there!
This makes me want to get the job. Aside from the negatives, it seems great.
Nice thing about TWIC is it also acts as TSA Pre check AND Global Entry so it is worth it for other things as well
Correct
Used to tell the guys to not worry about their old lady as Jodie was taking care of them while they were gone. Most guys don't last more than one trip no matter how tough. The tug life ain't no joke.
Tell her just have Jodie mow the grass when he stops by
@@TugTrashOutdoors Had a Captain who owned a home on the St. Johns river, and each time the ship passed near his home he would blow the ships whistle to say hi to his wife at home. One day, an AB was chipping paint outside the wheelhouse when the Captain blew the whistle alerting his wife that the ship was passing by. The AB yelled out loudly, " Run Jody, Run" . The AB was getting off that trip anyway.
@@officerkrupke4966 🤣😆🤣
LOL...I wonder how many people here are wondering...who the EF is Jodie?
@@dzikijohnnyJody is the universal name for guys that sleep with people's wives
Time as a crew member in the Navy or Coast Guard counts toward your merchant marine card and usually results in a higher entry level.
Time on a military vessel can be used towards a rating or license yes but it does not count day for day. It does not get you a high entry level if you hold an ordinary seaman you start out cleaning toilets like everyone else.
Great video Ian. I wish i would have known all this 40 years ago. After 40 years driving a truck it sounds like a lot of things in both jobs are similar. I'd sure like to know more. I've been disabled 5 years now but i still like to learn. I'll be looking forward to it.
Yes I believe it would be similar
It definitely pays to have an understanding partner at home! Makes being away alot easier! You and Krystal are the dream team lol💪
Yes! Thank you!
I know for my captains license I also needed to be CPR/AED and first aid certified. I can’t say enough how important it is to get that even if not required for your employment. It will give you much more confidence in the event you ever need it. It is important to have as many people certified and trained as possible.
You know that’s right! We also have an AED on board
My brother, I appreciate your video so much. You have no idea.
You do a lot to put them out. . Blessings
Thank you!!
Ian what a great video series! Tug-boat life isn’t for me but your straight forward no B.S. ‘hey this is how it is’ talk should help any one that is looking to start.
Even though I know this isn’t for me, keep going with the series I do think it’s valuable!
Thanks man
I was in the USN for 8 years as a Bosun's Mate. Nothing but hard work and watchstanding. I got out when I was 26. I'm 38 now, and the sea calls to me. Yeah it was hard work at times, boring at times, but there were a lot of great times too, and there's no comradery quite like being part of a crew. I'm a single guy, no kids, no surviving family, clean criminal record, in good physical shape, so the job is perfect for me. I'm really thinking about going for it.
Man you should! The industry is hurting for people and with a little hard work you can be a mate pretty quickly