Zack Saupe, Wheelman on the David J. Cooper, began his maritime career on a slightly different path before finding his way to Crescent Towing – New Orleans. Upon graduating college, he enrolled in the Maritime Academy to pursue a career on offshore supply vessels and drill ships.

“During the 2015 dip in oil prices,” he recalled, “and after seven years in the oil industry, I decided a change of scenery was needed.”

Desiring a career in a more stable field that would allow him to continue working on the water and maintain his Captain’s license, Zack ended up on the Mississippi River.

“I interviewed with Cooper/T. Smith and decided that Crescent Towing had exactly what I was looking for,” Zack shared. “I couldn’t be happier with the lifestyle change and crew I ended up with.”

Starting at Crescent Towing as a Mate in Training, Zack eventually tested for his 1600T Master and Master of Towing licenses, and currently works as Wheelman with Captain Billy Barletto. Duties range from holding night watch and completing assigned tasks that include cooking and cleaning, general vessel maintenance, and assisting with drills and training.

“I’ve had 9-to-5 office jobs and worked for myself as an independent contractor, and neither hold a candle to the feeling of running a boat and being part of a crew,” he enthused.

Zack takes satisfaction in knowing that each towing job he works is different, each presenting their own unique set of challenges.

“Running this equipment, doing challenging maneuvers under pressure and with a clear goal is really gratifying,” Zack said.

Grateful for his time with Crescent Towing and excited by his future potential, Zack feels incredibly lucky to have found this crew.

“I look at these guys as some of the best friends I’ve made since moving to Louisiana. It makes me proud to have the respect of my boss and the trust of the crew.”