ACA Director of Education, Insurance, and Membership Kelsey Bracewell recently attended Spring AUXPAD Training 2026 in Charleston, South Carolina, and came away encouraged by the collaboration, professionalism, and shared commitment to paddler safety demonstrated throughout the week.
Hosted at James Island County Park from May 4–9, the program brought together Coast Guard Auxiliarists, active duty and civilian Coast Guard members, state boating safety professionals, ACA Instructor Trainers, and paddlesports educators for four days of on-water and classroom-based training.
The event is part of the Coast Guard Auxiliary’s Paddlecraft Safety Program, a partnership with the American Canoe Association focused on developing effective, confident leaders and advocates for paddler safety.
“What stood out most was the spirit of practical, mission-driven learning,” said Kelsey Bracewell. “Participants worked through skills, rescues, instruction strategies, safety messaging, and real-world outreach tools, all with the goal of helping paddlers make safer choices before they get on the water.”
Several training tracks incorporated ACA Smart Start for Safe Paddling resources and kayak touring curriculum, reinforcing the connection between national paddlesports education standards and community-based boating safety outreach efforts happening across the country.
Beyond the technical training, the week reflected the strength of partnership within the paddlesports and boating safety communities. From the welcome dinner to long days on the water, the event highlighted what is possible when volunteers, educators, agency partners, and paddling professionals work together toward a shared purpose.
The ACA extends a special thank you to ACA Instructor Trainers Robin Pope, Scott Szczepaniak, Ashley Brown, Josh Hall, David McPherson, Bev Cosslett, and Roland McDevitt for helping facilitate the training.
The ACA is grateful to be trusted by these dedicated boating safety professionals and proud to support programs that help create safer, more welcoming paddling experiences nationwide.