Questions about SCTW

[subcom6]

Hello all, I am 25 years old, worked on a lobster boat for 2 years when I was 17. I did get my MMD OS last summer and I am getting my TWIC card this week. I want to start looking for companies to hire me and a lot of them I have spoken too want applications for OS, what I was wondering is before I start applying would it be better to get my SCTW or wait and let a company get it for me?

Also I have served no time on tugs, but am really excited about the work!!! Can anyone reccommend any "creek" companies in the northeast looking for maybe some part time help or should I just dive right in and go for the gold?

Appreciate the advice.

Pete

[Fleet Super]

My buddy got his OS and went to school t get the STCW. It was rated for "Lookout only" not "Rating forming part of the navigational watch". This has caused him some problems even though now he has an AB special. According to the Coast Guard, he has to sail outside on something over 200 tons to get the RFNW level. Otherwise he can only work inside; the bigger outfits want him to have more STCW ink.

If you can find a local company that doesn't do any sea work, you might get in. It seems like the bigger outfits want that higher level STCW though.

The short answer? If you aren't working for a company that does ocean towing, the STCW shouldn't be an issue unless their insurance companies are funny about it.