which are the important 2016 scuba shows to assist?
I am not sure if you meant to say, 'to attend' rather than 'to assist'. If so, I will suggest 5 shows to consider:
1. Beneath the Sea, April 1-3 2016, Secaucus, NJ (
Beneath the Sea). I think this is one of the better scuba gatherings in the US. It has BOTH good program / educational content and good exhibits.
2. DEMA, Nov 16-19, 2016, Las Vegas, NV (
DEMA Show 2016 - The Diving Equipment & Marketing Association). Although you will see a variety of less than enthusiastic comments about DEMA, and dire predictions about its future, it is still a useful show if you plan your time, particularly for a PADI Instructor.
3. TekDive USA 2016, April 22-24, 2016, Miami, FL (
http://tekdiveusa.com/events/tekdiveusa-2016/). Yes, this is oriented toward technical divers, and if you have no interest, then scratch it off the list. But, as an educational experience it is worthwhile.
4. Boston Sea Rovers, March 4-6, 2016, Boston, MA (
https://www.bostonsearovers.com/). A worthwhile and enjoyable experience.
5. Scuba Show, June 4-5, 2016, Long Beach, CA (
Home - Scuba ShowScuba Show). Perhaps, a bit different than some others, but a good event for divers and dive professionals.