During the day, Mark is a mild-mannered computer programmer. He works for CSG Systems designing interactive messaging solutions. Outside the 9-5, Mark is a scuba instructor extraordinaire. In all his classes and open water sessions, Skippy strives to make sure his students are comfortable in their new environment and that they master the skills necessary to become a safe, life-long diver. He’s a great part of the team and his enthusiasm is contagious.
Mark was given a trip to Australia in 2005 and and decided to learn to dive beforehand. "The moment I took my first breath underwater I was hooked," he says. "I immediately knew I wanted to teach." Today, Mark is an Open Water Scuba Instructor and shares his passion for diving with all of his students.
“Some day I would love to move somewhere warm and open a dive shop on the beach,” he says. We hope to be a part of it when he does.
Pool Instructor Gear:
• XS Scuba Fusion Mask
• XS Scuba Snorkel
• Aqua Lung Pro Q LT BC with an Atomic SS1
• Aqua Lung Titan LX Primary Regulator
• Atomic SS1 Secondary
• Aqua Lung Fins
• Mares SPG Console
Open Water Instructor Gear:
• XS Scuba Fusion Mask
• XS Scuba Snorkel
• Aqua Lung Pro QD BC
• Atomic T2x Regulator
• Atomic SS1 Secondary
• Aqua Lung Fins
• Suunto Cobra Computer
• Oceanic VT3 Computer
Why did you choose that gear?
Quality, Affordability and ease of maintenance. My pool BC is a travel BC and fits easily in a dive bag. My open water BC is durable and can withstand poor treatment from dive operators. The regulator is excellent quality and breathes great at any depth.
What is your favorite place to dive?
So far my favorite place has to be Roatan, Honduras.
What got you into scuba diving?
21 day trip to Australia. I figured if I'm going half way around the world I'm going to learn to dive.
What is your favorite part of teaching?
Watching people fall in love with diving.
