During the conference several classes were offered by The Great Lakes Maritime Academy.  Dave Bohn attended three classes: Reading Electric Schematics and Troubleshooting Controls;

Drive Train Alignment; and Shipboard Electrical Grounds.  Mike Perry took Reading Electric Schematics and Troubleshooting Controls, Hydraulics Changing Fluids and Cleaning Systems, and Ship Stability.  These classes were two to three hours long and were taught by Academy instructors.

Other topics covered during the conference were:

·        Licensing Issues by retired Coast Guard Inspector Chuck Kakuska

·        Bio-Diesel Fuels, Lubricants & Hydraulics by Jack Blanchard Diesel Engineer, General Motors

·        Security Awareness and Safety by Rick Brown, National Transportation Institute

·        Chart Updating, Raster Electronic and Paper Charts by Brian Link (NOAA)

·        Computers/ E-mails, How to keep yours healthy by Mike Hochscheidt Great Lakes Maritime Academy

·        Water levels & Other Great Lakes Issues by  Roger Gauthier, Army Corp of Engineers

·        Presentation on Michigan DNR New Research Vessel Char

·        Oil Testing and Preventative Maintenance by David Ezell, Caterpillar Rep.

·        Kelley Smith Michigan DNR talked about VHS fish virus

·        Coast Guard and Regulatory Issues by U.S. Coast Guard Rep.

·        Ship Stability by Tim Cherry, Naval Architect

·        Fire and Safety Issues by Dennis Sargent, Northern Fire and Safety

·        Weather Issues by Amy Seeley NOAA/NWS Chicago

·        History of Science Vessel Operation on the Great Lakes by Mike Quigley

On the evening of January 24, Mike Perry and Denise Johnston gave a presentation on the construction and operation of the M/V Spencer F. Baird.  The presentation consisted of a PowerPoint presentation showing the construction of M/V Spencer F. Baird and explaining the improvements in the fish stocking capabilities of the Baird, compared to the Togue. They also talked about the Lake Trout Restoration Program. The presentation lasted 15 to 20 minutes and was followed by a 20 to 30 minute question and answer period.

21 vendors were represented with informational booths which were available to visit during the entire conference.  Some of the companies were:

·        Caterpillar

·        Cummings

·        Detroit Diesel

·        AAA Sling

·        Algae-X

·        Diesel Fuel Doctor

·        Paint & Environmental Co.

·        Safety Equipment Co.

·        Communication Co.