Friday, August 31. Member training has always been one of "the" cornerstones of our organization. Training presentations are very popular and provide insight into some of the new programs and advise of changes to existing ones.

NACON 2007 is no exception. Some of the meeting rooms were filled to capacity and some, because of the limited scope of the material had less than capacity participation.

A wide variety of subject matters were presented, including some tried and true cornerstone programs. Each workshop attendee had his or her reason for choosing the subject matter. Some to further their "career" choice in the Auxiliary and some just for the opportunity to learn about a new skill or program.

"Recruiting" and "Retention" presentations opened up new vistas and ideas on beefing up our membership roles. Marine Observation Missions (MOM) helped clarify to the Coast Guard the Auxiliary’s role in Maritime Domain Awareness.

Mainstay training in vessel examination and public education provided the attendees with the changes and updates to the respective disciplines.

Diversity discussions, legislative liaison and partnership programs rounded out the slate of training sessions.

NACON 2007 also provided the opportunity to continue the ongoing Senior Office Training Academy (ASOC). This training is provided to the new Vice Commodores and appointed Commodores to assist the in their new leadership roles.