Former Seahawks Lineman Jason Childs Turn Tugboat CEO Still Pushing Big Things

Many athletes face an uncertain future after a career-ending football injury. For former Seahawks offensive lineman Jason Childs, that turning point became an opportunity for reinvention—one rooted in a love for pushing big things around and a keen understanding of strategy and leverage.

A Glimpse into the Past

Childs, who once weighed 320 pounds on the football field, still carries the physical presence that defined his playing days. “That’s me,” he says, pointing to a glossy black-and-white photograph from his Seahawks days. “Back in the day. Yeah, 320 pounds. A little different uniform there.” His football career was marked by strength, resilience, and a deep understanding of physicality—traits that would serve him well in his new job.

Transitioning from the Field to the Water

Today, Childs is the CEO of Saltchuk Marine, which guides thousands of ocean-going container ships into safe harbors along the West Coast. To better understand his new world, we boarded a tugboat called the John Quigg and set sail across Elliott Bay. The day was bright and sunny, and Childs took a moment to soak in the stunning Seattle skyline.

“I don’t get enough chances to come out on the boats as much as I’d like,” he said, “but every time I come out here, I’m overwhelmed by the beauty of Seattle in particular.” His appreciation for the scenery underscores a man who has found a new passion in a different environment.

The Physics of Leverage

While it might seem worlds apart, Childs sees a surprising connection between football and maritime work. “A lot of physics, a lot of geometry,” he explains. “Very much like a tugboat, right? You figure out how to get that tugboat into a big container ship that’s several stories tall. You have to know exactly where to push, when and how much.”

This understanding of leverage and strategy is crucial when multiple tugboats work together to maneuver massive ships. “That’s when mariners work as a team,” Childs notes. “Just like football—you’re talking to each other. They’re moving in unison, figuring out if one side’s pulling a little, the other side’s pushing. It’s a delicate balance, like a well-run offensive play.”

A Brotherhood at Sea

Childs admires the camaraderie among mariners, describing it as “a little family” that takes their work seriously. “There’s a lot of physical work that goes into being on a tugboat,” he says, emphasizing the teamwork and dedication required. The history of Foss Marine, founded in 1889 by Thea Foss, adds a layer of legacy and pride to their work. Today, women are also part of the crews, continuing a long-standing Northwest tradition of maritime excellence.

Carrying the Legacy Forward

For Childs, maintaining the Foss Marine name is more than just a business—it’s about honoring a rich history. “It’s really important to be continuing that legacy,” he affirms. “The Foss name brand is something that people really care about. A lot of history there and a lot of honor. We want to maintain that.”

A New Chapter Rooted in Strength and Strategy

Childs’ journey from the football field to the bustling harbors exemplifies resilience and adaptability. His story is a testament to how skills honed in one arena—strength, strategy, teamwork—can be transferred to another, equally demanding environment. Whether pushing big men on the gridiron or guiding massive ships into port, Jason Childs continues to demonstrate that reinvention is possible when passion and purpose align.

In the end, it’s about pushing forward—whether on the field or at sea—and carrying on a legacy of strength, teamwork, and honor.