In 1972 the Coast Guard established new requirements for licensing mariners who operate towboats on Western Rivers. The new rule introduced a series of examinations which must be successfully completed to qualify for an Operator Uninspected Towing Vessels (OUTV) license. Captain Billy Hutto and his wife Betty co-founded The River School to assist them in preparing to meet the academic requirements of the new license. From the very beginning, The River School focused on providing individual rivermen with personal support in dealing with regulations, applications, and examinations.

That tradition of support continues to this day. The past four decades have seen significant changes in the towing industry and Coast Guard licensing regulations. New requirements have been created for radar observer and tankerman endorsements. A new towing license has been implemented with a new entry level Steersman license. At each step of the way, the staff of The River School has been there, supporting rivermen and women.

The changes in the regulatory landscape have also changed The River School. While license preparation remains an important part of our business, we have broadened the range of services we provide. We’re more than just license prep!

Minutes to Live! Personal survival skills for working rivermen. NOW ON DVD! Teaches specific methods and techniques needed to improve your chances of surviving an accidental fall into the river.

Towboat Fire Safety A series of four fire safety training videos filmed on towboats. NOW ON DVD! Designed as a resource for the onboard training required by Coast Guard regulations.

Tank Barge Fire Safety 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.