The majority of exhibitors provide either goods or services to the yachting industry. Yes, they have something to sell, but when you are charged with providing that good or service in the course of your job, it's nice to know who to call. Walk around, introduce yourself, ask them questions, and collect business cards for your files. You never know when you'll need their particular brand of expertise. Knowing who to call in a pinch makes you look like a star onboard.

There also will be crew placement agents and schools for those either breaking into yachting or looking for a job. Walk around, introduce yourself and ask questions. Different people have different perspectives. Be careful not to build your career on what one person tells you (unless you know them well and they are a mentor, of course). 

RESUME CLINIC: There will also be a resume clinic staffed by active captains to give crew -- working or not -- a little insight into what the people doing the hiring think of your "first impression." Feel free to visit more than one captain. Different people have different opinions; there's no one right way to craft a resume. Ask questions about how they run their yachts so you can get an idea what kind of captain this advice is coming from. Then you'll know if whether to take it or leave it.

There is a lot to do at the Triton Expo. It's free for crew again this year, so why not? Consider it professional development and ask your skipper for the time to build your professional network.