The Scoutmaster trains boy leaders to run the troop by providing direction, coaching, and support. The Scoutmaster is responsible for training and guiding youth leaders in the operation of the troop, and for managing, training, and supporting his or her assistant Scoutmasters in their role.

A Scoutmaster is a mentor to the youth leaders. He presents them with ideas and information and provides support. One of the most difficult things a Scoutmaster has to do is to allow the youth to lead, even when he can see failure looming on the horizon. A Scoutmaster might say things like “Have you considered …?” and “What do you thing might happen if …?”, but the youth don’t always take the hint. A rule of thumb is, “If its not illegal, immoral, or dangerous, then let them try it their way.” Failure is a good teacher and most youth will rebound from it with a positive attitude.

A Scoutmaster has Scoutmaster conferences with troop members. He shows an interest in them and talks to them about what is happening in their lives.