Karen Miller, District Staff Officer Member Training (DSO-MR)

Karen Miller
District Staff Officer Member Training (DSO-MT)

Welcome to the District 7 Member Training Page

At the heart of every successful organization lies a commitment to excellence through education, and District 7 of the Coast Guard Auxiliary stands as a testament to this principle. Our training program is the cornerstone of our missions to support the Coast Guard and serve our members effectively.

Training within District 7 represents more than just a requirement—it embodies our dedication to continuous growth and professional development. Through our comprehensive training programs, we transform passionate volunteers into skilled Auxiliarists capable of supporting critical Coast Guard missions and recreational boating safety needs. This not only enhances their skills and knowledge but also provides them with a sense of accomplishment and pride in their service.

To support this educational journey, we maintain an extensive library of resources. Members have access to detailed training manuals, interactive presentations, and qualification guides that set clear standards for achievement. Our online Auxiliary classroom serves as a central hub for learning, providing convenient access to educational materials and testing platforms. Almost all training materials and requirements can be found on the National Training Directorate at https://wow.uscgaux.info/content.php?unit=T-DEPT.

The success of our training program relies heavily on our dedicated team of instructors. Our Assistant District Staff Officers-Member Training (ADSOs-MT) work closely with Division and Flotilla Staff Officers to ensure consistent, high-quality training across each Sector. This collaborative approach allows us to maintain educational standards while addressing local needs and challenges.

The current ADSOs are:

This dedicated group of staff officers will ensure all relevant member training information is passed down the Chain of Leadership and Management (COLM) to the divisions, flotilla, and members. Likewise, they will pass all reports, opportunities, activities, and challenges up the COLM to the DSO-MT. Communication is a key factor in making sure we address the needs of our members and resolve issues they are encountering.

We take particular pride in our specialized training initiatives. One of our ADSO-MT officers champions the Operational Auxiliarist (AUXOP) program, encouraging members to pursue this advanced qualification that represents the highest level of operational expertise. We are also collaborating with the District Staff Officer – Human Resources to focus specifically on guiding new members through their initial training, ensuring they quickly progress from Approval Pending to Basically Qualified status. This early support proves crucial in helping new members find their place within the Auxiliary and begin contributing to our missions.

Leadership development remains a key priority for District 7. Under the guidance of a dedicated ADSO-MT, we will help members develop the essential competencies expected of Coast Guard and Auxiliary leaders. We encourage all members to complete Level 1 leadership training while identifying and preparing future leaders through Level 2 qualification programs.

Through these coordinated efforts, we create an environment where learning becomes integral to the member experience. Well-trained members demonstrate greater confidence in their roles, find more satisfaction in their service, and tend to maintain longer, more fulfilling careers within the Auxiliary. This positive cycle of learning and achievement strengthens our organization and enhances our ability to support Coast Guard missions effectively.

As we look to the future, District 7 Member Training remains committed to promoting our educational programs to meet emerging challenges and opportunities. Maintaining our focus on excellence in training ensures that our members stand ready to serve, lead, and make a meaningful difference.

I am honored to serve as the Member Training Team Lead for District 7 during the 2025–2026 term. Since joining the Coast Guard Auxiliary in 1993, I have been deeply engaged in a wide range of mission areas. As an Operational Auxiliarist (AUXOP) and certified Instructor, I have served in various roles, including coxswain, qualification examiner, air observer, Coast Guard watchstander (and Officer of the Day), Pollution Responder, and proctor, among others. My experience spans all organizational levels of the Auxiliary, from flotilla to division to national. While I value every aspect of Auxiliary service, member training remains my greatest passion.


Karen Miller, DSO-MT