Patrick has over 20 years in Corporate America as a Senior Design and Technical Professional. He is a talented photographer and designer (but we are most proud of his excellent teaching skills). Patrick obtained his scuba certification in 1997 and joined the Omaha Zoo's volunteer dive program in 1998, escalating his passion for water.
Soon after he combined his love of photography and diving and created his own company - Barton Visions. Through his business Pat continues to excel in underwater photography and design. Pat's shares his expertise when we teaches the Digital Underwater Photography classes at DiVentures.
Patrick enjoys teaching scuba and traveling. He has seen many areas of the world, but thrives on seeing much more and sharing the experiences, so be sure ask him about all the places he has been.
Instructor Gear:
• Oceanic V4 Computer
• Oceanic Excursion BC w/AirXS2
• Oceanic FDX10
• Oceanic Delta 4 Regulator
• Pinnacle Dry Suit
• Atomic Mask
• WaterProof Wetsuit.
Why did you choose that gear?
I chose Oceanic just based on being introduced to them early on in my diving. I have worked with them directly a lot and they have always treated me great! (I personally like the fact of having consistency with one brand for easier and better maintenance. If you integrate brands you have to order parts from multiple suppliers. I tend to share this philosophy with students.) My dry suit and wetsuits were chosen based on the testing of each at the time and am still thrilled with both.
What do you like best about your system?
I like the design mostly; it is comfortable and is well supported in the U.S. regarding service and repairs.
What is your favorite place to dive?
I love all aspects and places I have dove. I love the experience of variety. I was in Seattle two weeks ago in 46 degree water, and that was after being in beautiful Bonaire with nearly 80 degree water just a few weeks prior. I think the warmer water is more comfortable, but I was REALLY STOKED after my two dives in Seattle. Bonaire offers conditions for ANY diver, so I tend to recommend that over any other location I have been.
What got you into scuba diving?
It was pure luck really. I have always loved the water and spent a lot of my free time water skiing, kayaking or racing jet skis.... One day a friend had reserved 20 spots in a class in Omaha and only had 19 signed up. I took the last spot and was hooked instantly.
What is your favorite part of teaching?
I really like all of the aspects. I feel that going over the material and working in the water with students makes me a better diver overall. It allows me to practice skills as well as never forget the simple stuff. Simple questions often remind me of things I might usually take for granted.
The icing on the cake is working with kids. They are sponges for information, they learn quickly and are always fun.
The other spectrum is simply just the success of helping someone get into the sport. Spending the extra time to make someone comfortable is always rewarding. I have certified several senior citizens that looked like little kids after getting to spend time underwater.
People are always excited about where this new skill will take them.
