Instructor/MSDT
Year of Professional Certification: 1992
PADI Level: Master Scuba Diver Trainer
About Me: With over 34 years of experience as a professional scuba diver and more than 5,000 logged dives, I have explored some of the most remarkable marine environments across the globe. My diving career has taken me to world-renowned locations including Fiji, Indonesia, the Cayman Islands, Cozumel, and the Sea of Cortez. Among my most memorable experiences are diving with great white sharks at Isla Guadalupe and participating in expeditions to Cocos Island through the University of Arizona’s marine science program. My passion for marine science extends beyond diving. I have served as a Marine Biology Teaching Assistant under Dr. D.A. Thomson at the University of Arizona, where I helped guide students in field-based ocean research and exploration. I am also the founder and operator of the nonprofit Fin Foundation, dedicated to marine conservation and education. Currently, I teach Biology at Marana High School, where I bring real-world scientific experience into the classroom to inspire the next generation of scientists and ocean stewards. When I’m not in the water or teaching, I enjoy life on the Triple Fin Ranch with my partner of 14 years, Carey. Together, we care for a variety of rescue animals and embrace a lifestyle rooted in conservation, education, and a deep respect for the natural world.
Favorite Dive Destination: My absolute favorite dive was encountering killer whales in the Sea of Cortez near San Carlos. These powerful, highly intelligent animals took my breath away as they moved effortlessly through the water, passing just feet from me. The experience was both humbling and exhilarating—being so close to apex predators that displayed such curiosity and grace is something I will never forget.
Favorite Marine Animal: My favorite marine animal is the sea button, a small, elusive snail known for its beautifully crafted shell—delicate, smooth, and often adorned with subtle, colorful patterns. Despite its size, it has a way of capturing my full attention, and I’ve turned spotting one into a personal challenge on every dive I make in San Carlos. There’s something incredibly rewarding about slowing down, scanning the reef, and finally discovering one of these tiny treasures tucked among the sand or rock—it’s a reminder that even the smallest organisms can leave the biggest impression.
Favorite Dive Gear: When it comes to dive gear, I rely on equipment that delivers both performance and peace of mind. My Atomic Aquatics regulators are my go-to for their exceptional ease of breathing and rock-solid dependability in any condition. For buoyancy control, I trust my Aqua Lung Axiom BCD, which provides outstanding comfort and a secure, stable fit throughout every dive. I also depend on a range of dive computers to stay informed and safe underwater, including models from Scubapro and Garmin, as well as my Apple Watch paired with Oceanic+ for added versatility and real-time data tracking.