For Captain David Askew, a desk job was never his destiny. Instead, he found his calling with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), as a Port Aransas ferry deck supervisor, a story that has recently garnered attention. Askew's journey, which unfolded over eleven years, saw him rise through the ranks from a safety supervisor to a ferry captain who, now celebrates nearly 12,000 hours at the helm.
According to a TxDOT feature, Askew began his time with the organization on September 1, 2012. "I've always lived near the water and have been an avid fisherman," Askew told TxDOT, and when the opportunity presented itself, he didn't shy from making a living out of what he loved most. Adding to his credibility, Askew has operated every vessel at Port Aransas Ferry Operations.
In June 2019, Askew had his captain's license in hand and by April the following year, he'd achieved his goal of becoming a full-time captain. "The ferry crossing is short, about 5 minutes on average, depending on weather and traffic," he said of the day-to-day operations. A typical shift for him can include up to 50 one-way trips.
More than just a driver, Askew acknowledges his responsibilities including coordination of traffic and other vessels. After being promoted to V Deck seaman back in August 2019, the position afforded him, “With my promotion, I have more time with my family while still being able to drive the ferry.” His example also serves as a motivation to his colleagues; "Rain or shine, our captains and deckhands do a job that not everyone can do," said Askew.
