May 16, 2026

2026 CLASSes

SAILING ABILITY QUALIFICATION GUIDE

Please use the following information as a guide when choosing from the classes below:

Beginner (B): You haven’t been on a sailboat before or you’ve been a guest on other people’s boats. Your experience is limited to following directions. Your knowledge of terminology is basic. Little or no helm time. You’ve been sailing with others, but do not adjust anything without direction.

Intermediate (I): You’ve been sailing with others. You know fundamental terms and equipment and can prepare for and execute maneuvers with brief commands. You are familiar with basic trim of jib and main, and know when and how to adjust the sails. Helm time is limited, but can read telltales. Know that there are rules of the road, but don't know them. Have been exposed to navigation but have limited practice.

Advanced (A): You can hand, reef, and steer and know what each means. Understand navigation terms, and recognize all aids to navigation, but may have limited charting practice. You can direct a beginner in sail trim. Can use secondary trim controls. Have flown a spinnaker. Can maneuver in close quarters under sail or power.

*Indicates hands-on class 

Advanced Sail TrimKristin Pratt

This class delves into the principles and techniques of advanced sail trim to enhance your boat's performance. You'll explore wind dynamics, sail controls, and adjustments, learn upwind and downwind sail trimming strategies, and gain practical tips for real-world application. Ideal for experienced sailors looking to refine their skills and achieve optimal sail performance. Join us to master the art of sail trimming and take your sailing to the next level. (A)

Aids to Navigation and Chart Reading  Anne Keel 

Red, green, and everything in between—how to read nautical charts and navigation aids without second-guessing yourself. (B)(I)(A)

All About Anchoring • Terri Schmidt and Kristin Bird 

Demystify the often stressful practice of anchoring your boat. This course will cover critical topics for successful anchoring, including site selection, anchor types, and practical "how-to" tips.  Increase your competence and confidence with this important skill. (I)

All About Electrical: A Two-Part Class*  Jeannette DeFriest, Beth Burlingame and Robin Jimenez 

Are you interested in your boat's electrical system? Are you looking for some hands-on experience with basic marine wiring? This workshop will introduce you to the instructors' favorite tools and techniques and give you some practice making good wiring connections. We will go over some basic electrical concepts and then dive right in to hands-on practice. Tools and materials will be provided. (I)(A)


Basic Sail TrimDawn Mills and Lilly Mills

Take a look at the next step in sail trim of your mainsail, jib/genoa, and spinnaker. Do you ever wonder how that thing-a-ma-gig (cunningham), or whatchamacallit (outhaul) can be used to enhance your sail trim, and in turn, increase your cruising and racing performance? The goal of this session is to review the sail trim controls and how to use them to your sailing advantage. This session is for novice and intermediate sailors. (B)

Big Audacious Adventures: Sailing Adventures Panel   Tyann Zehms, Beth Burlingame, Clarissa Wertman

This panel features sailors who have dreamed of big sailing adventures, and have gone on them! From the Mac Race, Race to Alaska, racing across the Great Lakes, and more, these women have planned for big adventures…and don’t you want to learn more about Why? How? and Can I? (B)(I)(A)

First Aid on a Boat  Dawn Mills and Emily Joachim 

Are you prepared for injures and illness on your boat? The best way to manage emergencies is to be prepared! Learn how to approach and manage first-aid on a boat, with an emphasis on common emergencies you may encounter. We will cover basics of first aid, common sailing ailments, and an approach to creating your own marine first-aid kit. (B)(I)

Hands-On Mounting Hardware: A Two-Part Class*  Jeanette DeFriest, Emily Joachim and Abby Procton 

Help ! I have to replace hardware and don't know where to start! From mounting cleats to underwater fittings (that is a hole in the bottom of your boat!), this course will provide an overview of considerations of materials and techniques to use for various types of hardware mounting applications, and allow hands-on opportunity to practice in a safe and stress-free (ie sikingfree!) environment. (A)

Heavy Weather Emergency Sailing Sarah Pederson and Kristin Pratt 

When talking about heavy weather emergency sailing, the key to a successful experience is preparation and expertise.  As we all know, no matter how much you prepare, there is always the chance you may encounter something you can’t control, such as an unexpected weather front.   Heavy weather emergency sailing is a combination of equipment, training, and boat handling.   This course will address boat handling, equipment, and scenarios to help you prepare to tackle them as they occur. (A)

Imposter Syndrome on the Water: Practical Strategies Panel • Sarah Pederson, Dana Robb, Phyllis MacDonald 

Do you love sailing but look around and aren't sure where to start or how you could ever "be like them"?  If you have ever asked, “can I do that?”, this is the panel for you! Panelists will share their sailing journeys and practical strategies for dealing with self doubt and imposter syndrome on the water. (B)(I)

Introduction to SailingTerri Schmidt

Whether you are new to sailing or need a refresher on the basics, this class is for you! Topics will include points of sail, tacking and jibing, crew positions, boat parts and equipment, and safety on the water. Learn about the unique experiences of women entering the sailing world and how to find your perfect sailing “fit.” Resources will be offered to help you continue learning after the class is over. Get your questions answered. Consider all the possibilities. Feel prepared for your next great adventure! (B)

Need to Know Knots Robin Jimenez

Mastering the art of knot tying is an essential skill for every sailor. In this hands-on class, you’ll learn the most practical knots used on sailboats. We’ll cover fundamental knots such as the bowline, clove hitch, and figure-eight, along with tips on when and why to use each one. Whether you’re new to sailing or looking to refresh your skills, this session will give you confidence and efficiency on the water. No prior experience required—just bring your curiosity and a willingness to learn! (B)(I)

The Basics of Racing Rules and Updated Racing Rules  Jae Junkunc

This Racing Rules for New Racers class introduces how to navigate the Racing Rules of Sailing book, explains what happens when boats meet on the racecourse (including basic right‑of‑way situations), and offers resources to pursue more advanced learning for more complex situations. (I)(A)

The Softer Side of Sailing: Canvas, Exterior Design  Stacy Lounsbury 

Canvas is an integral part of sailing both on the interior and exterior of your boat. This class will inform you of what is involved in material selection, precise patterning, careful sewing and secure installation. Whether you are wanting to tackle some of these projects yourself or hire it done, this class can help you make those decisions. Exterior Canvas applications: see and feel the different material choices that are available. Upgrades for Re-sale, Biminis, Dodgers and enclosure windows, Boom Covers, winch covers, tiller covers, and cockpit cushions; Cockpit shades (boom tent). (I)


Weather on Lake Michigan • NOAA/NWS 

Join a professional from NOAA/NWS in discussion of the unique and often tricky weather patterns on Lake Michigan.  Learn how to approach the forecast and conditions when going out sailing, what details to pay attention to, and how to stay informed of the conditions. This is a must for any sailor who wishes to better understand and plan for Lake Michigan's weather!  (B)

Weather, Wind and Navigation Apps • Anne Keel 

From forecasts to navigation, this is a sailor’s guide to the must-have apps that keep you informed, confident, and safe on the water. (B)(I)(A)

What's In Your Seabag? • Emily Joachim and Clarissa Wertman

Your seabag is an essential component of your sailing gear. The approach to what and how you pack depends on whether you are going on a daysail or on a week-long race. Join us in exploring the essentials you should keep in your bag at all times, and how to approach packing for both cruising and racing. (B)(I)


What's In Your Toolkit? • Phyllis McDonald

On board there are limits to space and weight.  Phyllis will give you her criteria to decide which tools make the cut and what to leave in the dockbox. There are specialty tools and multitaskers, tools in standard sizes and those for tight spaces, and even a few inventions.  There will be much to see and handle. (I)(A)

CONTACT US

Tel: 414.522.7764

contact@midwestwomenssailing.org

Midwest Women's Sailing Conference
P.O. Box 1099
Milwaukee, WI 53201-1099

CONFERENCE LOCATION

Milwaukee Community Sailing Center
1450 N Lincoln Memorial Dr.
Milwaukee, WI 53202

lat/long: 43.045746, -87.886805

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