Peter Friedman: SDI Instructor Trainer Ambassador

Hi, I’m Peter Friedman. I’m honored to be a part of the SDI Instructor Ambassador Program. I’m from Stuart, Florida where I own Stuart Scuba.

What was the first dive you did and how did it influence you to start a career in the diving industry?

My first dive was going over the side of a fishing vessel and clearing a fouled prop. That made me decide that I needed to know the correct way to do this and do dives that are fun. That first dive has led me to diving in many parts of the world and all over this country in all types of water.

What is your favorite SDI class to teach and why?

I do like to teach dive master classes. My background is such that I love teaching the science of diving and physiology. My favorite DM student question to ask is ……If our boat has an overall width of 11 feet, it is 36 feet long and when empty draws 1.5 feet of water, how much does the vessel weigh.

What is a bucket list dive you still have?

I have always wanted to dive with narwhals. I do know that is most likely will not happen. I have been in the water with beluga whales.

What is one bit of advice you would give to a perspective Instructor candidate about to embark on becoming an SDI Instructor?

While the industry has progressed to an e-learning platform, that does not take the responsibility from you as an instructor from teaching in a classroom situation. The e-learning makes this a blended classroom situation. One part of the blend is the e-learning and the other is you, imparting your knowledge and enthusiasm for this sport of ours.