Career Glance: Starting off on water as a deckhand
When José Tamayo and Calvin Aubry step foot onto the deck of the Galveston Island Ferry, they can be in for a long day as deckhands. But as they both see it, what's better than a day out on the water? The deckhand is the first position for a person vying for a chance to work in the maritime industry. It is a position that opens doors as mariners continue to obtain their U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) certifications. As keeper of the deck, deckhands are usually in charge of some maintenance duties, loading and unloading, and keeping the deck in order. They can start making anywhere from $130 to $170 a day, depending on inland or near coastal service. For deckhands who work on the Galveston Island Ferry, the job allows them the ability to return home each evening after working eight-hour shifts.
Increased Demand for Trained Maritime Professionals
May 22 is National Maritime Day, an observance to recognize the contributions and sacrifices made by America's Merchant Marine. However, it is also a time to reflect on a growing industry that is facing needs for highly-skilled mariners. The total value of marine freight is estimated to increase by 43 percent domestically and 67 percent internationally by 2020, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Maritime Administration. At the same time, it is predicted that increased consumer demand for liquid natural gas (LNG) and oil will require newly-skilled mariners, new vessels, and expanded terminal infrastructure. Employment of U.S.
