If you’re new to Confident Captain, welcome aboard. You might be wondering who I am and who is behind the Confident Captain brand. My name is Captain Kent Dresser, and I’ve spent the last 30 years navigating the waters—both literally and professionally—to help mariners like you build successful careers at sea.
Like many of you, I started with a love for the water and a drive to make a career out of it. My first real lessons in seamanship weren’t learned in a classroom but on deck, working in the towing and salvage business. It was fast-paced, high-stakes work, where quick decisions meant the difference between a successful salvage and very unpleasant results. Those early years forged my instincts, sharpened my leadership skills, and taught me what it truly means to be a professional captain.
From there, I worked my way through the industry, spending time as a quick response rescue and salvage boat captain where I successfully ran over 4,000 cases, a New York tugboatman, and eventually founding Confident Captain—a company built by mariners, for mariners. Over the years, we’ve trained thousands of boat captains, helping them earn their licenses, build confidence on the water, and advance their careers.
Alongside my time at sea, I’ve also dedicated myself to the study of maritime affairs, leadership, and business. I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Marine Affairs from the University of Rhode Island, where I developed a deeper understanding of the policies, regulations, and economics that shape the maritime industry. Later, I pursued a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and a Master of Arts in Philosophy, and I’m currently working on a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) with a focus on virtuous leadership—an approach that integrates integrity, accountability, and human flourishing into professional life.
Why does this matter to you?
Because being a captain isn’t just about running a vessel—it’s about leading people, managing risk, and building a career that lasts. A great captain isn’t just an expert navigator; they’re someone who can make tough calls under pressure, create a culture of safety and professionalism, and earn the trust of their crew and clients. My background—both on the water and in leadership studies—gives me a unique perspective on how captains can develop their careers beyond just earning a license.
This blend of real-world experience and book work is what makes Confident Captain different. We don’t just teach you how to pass an exam—we prepare you for a career at sea. And with the launch of the Professional Captains Association (PCA), we’re taking that commitment even further, providing mariners with the resources, professional support, and network they need to thrive in this industry for the long haul.
If you’re an aspiring boat captain, a seasoned mariner looking to level up, or someone who simply wants to take command of their future, you’re in the right place. I built Confident Captain and the PCA because I know what it takes to succeed in this industry. I’ve been there. And now, I want to make sure you have the skills, the knowledge, and the confidence to chart your own course.
Fair winds,
Captain Kent Dresser
President & Founder, Confident Captain/Professional Captains Association