Before working in the diving industry, I worked in the construction industry framing houses. Back in 2005 there was plenty of work with no end in sight. Then came the crash of 2006 and everything changed. The building industry came crashing down and I was laid-off. Like many others I had to switch gears in a hurry. Boat bottom cleaning was in the cards.
Making A Plan
For a while, I struggled to figure out my next plan of action. I thought about all the trades I had learned along the way. Do I go back to electrical, plumbing, hardwood floors, maintenance man or simply try something new?
At the time, I put in a lot of applications with no luck finding a job. So, I started going to Day labor 6 days a week to make ends meet to pay the bills for my family, and after weeks of the day labor for $50.00 a day, a scuba company moved in next door.
A Suggestion From My Wife
My wife said, “how cool would it be if you could get a scuba diving job!” She laughed of course. But, I was intrigued by the idea. The next day I went to speak to the Scuba Man. I have always dedicated myself to doing my best at anything I put my mind to do. First question the Scuba Man had for me was, “are you scuba certified?” I answered, “No, but what do I need to do?” He was impressed by my desire so he took me out and showed me the ropes.
Boat Bottom Cleaning Is Fun
On the very first day, I fell in love with the work, diving and boat bottom cleaning. By the next week, I was signing up for my scuba certification. Life was beginning to look up! I worked for the Scuba Man for over a year, and then parted ways so I could further my career.
A Career Move
Started working for Down Under Dive Service for a great man Walter Norman. For the next 8 years I spent my scuba career working for Walt, learning everything I possible could about the diving business from bow to stern. I learned how to teach others the trade and to deal with the management of scheduling, billing and costumer relations.
For years Walt and I had spoken about his retirement in the hopes that I would want to take over the business. I was very excited about the opportunity so when it came about I, hopped on it.
New Owner Of A Dive Service
In 2015, I became the new owner of Down Under Dive Service. After years of hard work and being know as one of the best in the business, I am now striving to show everyone that this is a quality company with reliable divers that are excited to do quality work.