Built in 1958, by Main Iron Works Incorporated of Houma, Louisiana as the Cathy Cenac for the Cenac Towing Company Incorporated of Houma, Louisiana.

The tug was later acquired by the Houma Land and Offshore Company Incorporated of Houma, Louisiana. Where she was renamed as the Karen W.

In 1994, she was acquired by Houma Oil Treaters Incorporated of Houma, Louisiana. Where the tug retained her name.

In 2003, the tug was acquired by HOT Energy Services Incorporated of Houma, Louisiana. Where she retained her name.

Powered by two, GM 8-71 diesel engines. With Twin Disc reduction gears, at a ratio of 4:1. She is a twin screw towboat, rated at 300 horsepower.