Jacob Grant

Jacob Grant, Port Captain, Amherst Madison

From a young age, Jacob Grant knew his destiny was intertwined with the river. Growing up surrounded by the majestic sternwheeler boats, he was captivated by their history and the intricate art of navigating the waterways. This fascination set the course for his future.

Right after high school, Grant embarked on his river career as a deckhand, immersing himself in the fleets along the Kanawha River. His passion for learning and dedication to mastering the craft led him to explore the Upper Mississippi and Illinois rivers, where he honed his skills and climbed the ranks.

Grant’s childhood spent on old sternwheelers fueled his ambition to understand the mechanics of modern towboats. His journey took a significant turn when he joined a steersman’s program under the mentorship of Capt. Randy Kelly. With newfound expertise, he navigated the Upper Mississippi, Illinois and Ohio rivers, gaining invaluable experience.

A pivotal moment came when Grant decided to join Amherst Madison Inc., a company whose boats he had admired throughout his life. His tenure on the Ohio River with Amherst marked a homecoming of sorts. Eventually, he transitioned to a land-side role, embracing the position of port captain.

With more than 11 years of experience on the river, Grant continues to learn and grow every day, driven by his unwavering passion for the waterways.