Q-Day 2026 is more than an event—it is a Division-wide readiness and qualification initiative.
Hosted by U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Division 23, Central Chesapeake, the Virtual Auxiliary Program Expo & Q-Day (Qualification Day) brings Auxiliarists together to train, qualify, and prepare for service in direct support of Coast Guard missions across the Central Chesapeake region.

Held February 20–22, 2026, Q-Day provides a fully virtual, structured training environment designed to ensure members are ready, relevant, and responsive. The event integrates Auxiliary Core Training (AUXCT), annual mandatory requirements, Directorate-mandated program updates, leadership forums, and Qualification Pathways into a single, mission-focused experience.

A key component of Q-Day is the Auxiliary Program Expo and Qualification Pathways, which introduce members to operational and support roles across core Auxiliary missions. These pathways are designed to guide members through prerequisites, required training, and next steps for qualifications such as Vessel Examiner, Instructor, Program Visitor, Radio Watchstander, Culinary Assistance, Public Affairs, and more.

Participation in a Qualification Pathway weekend does not automatically confer qualification. Some pathways require additional online coursework, examinations, training hours, and completion of a Performance Qualification Standard (PQS) beyond the Q-Day weekend to achieve full certification.

Participants will move seamlessly from the main virtual lobby into designated breakout sessions for Fireside Chats, interactive workshops, leadership roundtables, AUXCT sessions, and pathway-specific training. Whether completing required compliance training, exploring new qualification opportunities, engaging Division leadership, or mapping a personal advancement plan, Q-Day is designed to keep your experience organized, accessible, and impactful.

Our goal is clear and deliberate: to ensure every Auxiliarist leaves Q-Day informed, connected, and on a defined pathway toward qualification and mission readiness. Q-Day 2026 strengthens individual competency, builds Division-wide capacity, and reinforces the Auxiliary’s role as a trusted force multiplier, today and into the future.

                               Ready. Relevant. Responsive. — Semper Paratus