No, not junior moderators or moderators in training. But by virtue of their demostrated dedication they are potential candidates for moderator positions, and many of our new moderators are likely to come from their ranks. For that reason they and FT will benefit from a close working relationship with the moderator(s) of their forums. For example, I can see potential benefits from informal copying on some kinds of PMs, albeit to a much lesser degree than for a moderator in training. That really starts to blur any bright line you wanted to draw.
Actually, the position of ambassador was conceived in part as a post-moderator retirement activity. A way for moderators who no longer wish to log in every day or keep on top of a forum on a daily basis to continue to give back to the community without all of the obligations of being a moderator.
It was also conceived as a way for those who have no interest in EVER being a moderator to get a shiny star for being who they are anyway: helpful and welcoming posters and, by their example, encourage others to do the same.
It was also conceived in part as a way for folks who may not have always been angels and therefore do not qualify to EVER be moderators to give back to the community if they have demonstrated that they are 'reformed.'
If the ambassador program becomes a breeding ground for moderators then so be it. But it was NOT conceived in any way to replace or supplant moderators or the excellent job you all do. It was also NOT conceived in any way to replace or supplant the moderator-in-training program that the mod corps has apparently initiated.
That's why, in the third or so post of this thread I said that " really, really, really hope we can keep the ambassador program entirely separate from moderation issues and focus on recruiting, rewarding and encouraging positivity..."