Career in Scuba Diving?

[Knot Waiting]

Does anyone know how one would go about getting into becoming a repair diver? Training, etc. Is anybody on iboats a career diver that could share some pointers on how they got their start?

The reason I ask is because Im currently stuck in an underperforming 'dead end' job and despite my desire to leave it, have not found a desireable opprotunity that would make a move worth while. However, I recenty I talked to a former mechanic who got laid off and got into diving. Now he has a great and unique career that he is not only happy with but also pays well.

Maybe Im crazy, but it seems exciting and intrigues me so I figured Id ask.

 

[Huron Angler]

Re: Career in Scuba Diving?

Funny you ask...I've been wondering the same thing to myself for some time now

Repair diving would be more practical than running a guide/charter/diving rig for tourists I think. My cousin ran a glass-bottom rig and a dive shop up north(Michigan) and it is pretty competitive.

I am not yet certified, I still need to get my open-water dive, but I'm pretty sure I'd enjoy a career diving much more than sitting behind this desk

 

[marlboro180]

Re: Career in Scuba Diving?

I knew a couple guys out east that did that sort of thing. Docks, boats, rigging, etc. They said underwater welding was really a fun challenge.

Check into some local people that do similar things, or teach. Like these guys- cant be all bad, guns and diving in 1 shop!

www.precisionsportsoshkosh.com

 

[drrpm]

Re: Career in Scuba Diving?

The Navy would probably be a good place to do that.

 

[Pogo123]

Re: Career in Scuba Diving?

I'm not sure any of my personal history would be of much use to you since I started decades ago, before there was much in the way of certification requirements.

My suggestion is to, first, become a Certified SCUBA Instructor. That will expose you to more aspects of diving than just SCUBA and teach you a lot about yourself. I'm both PADI and NAUI Instructor certified and although I prefer PADI, both are good organizations ... and there are more.

You can then add certifications in Hard hat, Mixed Gas and specialties such as welding and salvage through one of the many schools and academies available throughout the country. A Google search for Professional Diving Schools should turn up a ton of links.

Good luck