How to Become a Dredge Captain

A dredge captain commands a ship that is used for excavating under water. The dredge captain is like any other captain-they set courses for vessels using navigational tools, are responsible for the crew and manage excavations, making sure they meet all requirements. A dredge captain has a very responsible and multi-faceted position.

Instructions

1. Search for a United States Coast Guard facility in your local area and find out where the nearest exam center is. You will need to take an exam for a captain's license.

2. Study for the United States Coast Guard license exam and make an appointment to take it. Expect to be at the exam site for most of a day.

3. Get a copy of your new license and use it to find an apprentice position on a dredge boat.

4. Train on a boat or ship that dredges. Since a dredge captain is more than just a captain, you will need experience in the field.

5. Decide if you want to be responsible for the crew, the project and the ship before you apply for your captain's license. Not everyone is cut out to be a captain-it takes sacrifice.

6. Work your way up from crewman, to first mate and then to captain.

7. Learn all you can before you take on dredge captain responsibilities-remember people's lives will be your responsibility.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't cut corners-spend at least the amount of time suggested in an apprentice program before going it alone.

• Dredging is a risky business since you work with equipment at sea.