SSI Dive Control Specialist (DiveCon)  - This is our initial dive leadership  level.

In 1978, SSI introduced the original Dive Control Specialist course with an ambitious goal: to combine assistant instructor and divemaster training.  At that time, those were the two main courses offered, and SSI felt that both were important to the development of a good dive leader and instructor candidate.

In 1985, SSI introduced the Dive Control Specialist handbook, which was part of a complete teaching system featuring candidate and instructor materials.  Over the years, the handbook served DiveCon candidates well, providing a reference that was supported with extensive handouts from the DiveCon Instructor.  The eventual development of the Open Water Diver, Diver Stress & Rescue and Specialty Diver materials outshined the handbook, however, and it became apparent that candidates deserved upgraded materials.

The revised DiveCon manual is true to the original concept - a program combining assistant instructor and divemaster training - yet it goes even further.  The new manual incorporates diving physics and physiology, decompression theory and leader stress and rescue.  Training for conducting SSI programs, such as Scuba Skills Update and Snorkeling, is also included.  This thorough training makes the SSI DiveCon a well-prepared, well-educated, versatile and marketable dive leader.

Devoted divers who are motivated to pass along their love of recreational scuba diving to others will find the Dive Control Specialist course a challenging but satisfying experience that will add a new, rewarding dimension to the sport.  Much as the Open Water Diver course opened the door to scuba, the DiveCon course will open the door to leadership, which allows the DiveCon to enjoy diving on an entirely different level and to earn the respect of other divers.  Also, the advanced education provides the DiveCon with a deeper understanding of all aspects of diving, from DCS to specialty dives, as well as a new perspective on equipment and rescues.

The training also makes excellent background for the SSI Instructor Training Course (ITC), should the DiveCon decide to proceed to the next level.  The DiveCon course was designed so the ITC candidate could pass the General Diving Knowledge Review by studying the DiveCon manual.  The manual can also be used as an exceptional reference during the Instructor Training Course.

As a certified SSI Dive Control Specialist (DiveCon) you can:

• Work on Dive Boats, in Facilities and  Resorts. 

• Take people diving, lead trips and tours

• Assist SSI Instructors in the pool and open water

• Teach skills in the pool under the supervision of an instructor

• Teach independently Scuba Skills Update, Snorkeling, Try Scuba Diving and selected SSI Specialty Courses like Equipment Techniques, Navigation, Boat Diving, Photography & Digital Underwater Photography and Shark Diver.  With additional training a DiveCon can also become SCUBA RANGERS  Instructor.