take the con

verb2

1. •
   To take over navigational duties on the bridge of a ship.

   • Mr. Renner, take the con!" Jolt meters swung before the acceleration alarms; Renner must have set up the course in advance and slapped the keys the instant he was given control. — 1974
2. •
   (figurative) To take over responsibilities from someone else and thus become in charge of a situation.