I just signed up to the NG. Glad we have one out here for diving.
I read a post called ' 10 ways to recognize a PADI scuba diver'. I am
jumping in the middle of this with not having the beginning but I read one
post that mentions taking advanced class to become better. I agree with this
very much but I think the industry is mostly in for the $$$$$$.
I am certified through SSI here in Arizona. I feel I got great instruction
and so forth.
I wanted to learn more after the basic open water so I looked into the
specialty courses. SSI requires you to take 4 courses and log 24 dive to get
a advanced open water course, great where do I sign up. I soon learned that
the dive shop who teaches SSI here in Arizona will not do that, you have to
take a 20 week course that includes all specialty courses. That sounded
great as well until you take the class. The class's are nothing more than a
brief intro to the courses and really do not teach you much. The final test
is an open book/discussion so everyone gets the same score ! Everyone passes
the test...
We have several people in the class of about 20 or so who during our final
check out dives ( logging dives from 20 to 30) who still could not put the
equipment together without help..
Why does the industry pass people like this ? For the income I guess but who
then is liable when these people dies or have serious injury due to the lack
of training proficiency is the area?

Just makes me a little upset that a person can have the same advanced card
as me and he/she can't even clear the regs or put the tank on the BC..

Off my soapbox now, comments, grips????