About Our Scuba Council

The SCUBA Council is dedicated to expanding access to SCUBA diving through inclusive education, community engagement, and water safety advocacy. Our mission is to make SCUBA diving approachable and safe for everyone—whether you're a beginner, adaptive diver, or seasoned enthusiast. We offer pathways that integrate SCUBA into learn-to-swim programs and water safety initiatives, helping participants build skills while cultivating a lifelong connection to aquatic environments. The council connects individuals to local certified instructors and dive groups, ensuring safe and supportive learning experiences. For certified divers, we provide opportunities to lead water safety efforts and participate in community events. United by a shared passion for exploration and safety, the SCUBA community is committed to empowering diverse voices, fostering environmental stewardship, and developing skilled, responsible divers at every level.

Meet Our Leadership Team

Anesti Vega - Headshot

Anesti Vega

Chair

Chair of the SCUBA Council, Anesti Vega is a military veteran, educator, and passionate advocate for inclusive diving. With extensive experience in adaptive diving instruction and community outreach, he champions accessible SCUBA education and water safety for all.

catherineharris

Cat Harris

Co-Chair

Co-Chair Cat Harris is a certified dive professional with a background in marine science and youth engagement. She is committed to expanding opportunities in SCUBA for underrepresented communities, and leads initiatives focused on safety training, mentorship, and empowerment through aquatic exploration.

SCUBA Program: Opportunities, Training, and Community Engagement

The SCUBA Council offers a wide range of programs and training opportunities designed to make SCUBA diving accessible, inclusive, and integrated with water safety education. Whether you're just getting started or are an experienced diver looking to deepen your impact, there’s a pathway for you.

Beginner SCUBA Courses

  • Discover SCUBA: Introductory sessions for those new to diving, offering a safe and supportive environment to try SCUBA for the first time.
  • Open Water Diver Certification: Full-entry level certification that prepares participants for independent diving under professional supervision.

Adaptive and Inclusive Instruction

  • Specialized training for individuals with disabilities or unique needs, with certified instructors who focus on safety, comfort, and accessibility in the water.

Advanced & Specialty Certifications

  • Advanced Open Water Diver: For certified divers looking to enhance their skills through deep dives, navigation, and other specialty techniques.
  • Rescue Diver & Dive Master Training: Courses designed to build leadership, emergency preparedness, and community outreach capabilities.
  • Specialty Workshops: Including underwater photography, marine conservation, and equipment maintenance.

Water Safety Festivals

  • Held in partnership with local pools and aquatic organizations, these events feature SCUBA try-it sessions, safety demos, swim lessons, and public education booths to promote drowning prevention and aquatic safety.

SCUBA Discovery Days

  • Interactive experiences where participants of all ages can meet instructors, explore SCUBA gear, and learn about opportunities to get involved.

Leadership & Advocacy Workshops

  • Designed to empower certified divers and water safety advocates to lead workshops, represent the SCUBA Council at events, and mentor new participants.

Join the Program

  • Individuals can start by signing up for an info session, applying for a beginner SCUBA course, or connecting with a local certified dive group through our website or community events.

Volunteer Opportunities

  • Volunteers support festivals, assist with events, and help with outreach—no prior diving experience required.

Support the Mission

  • Organizations and individuals can support through donations, partnerships, or by sponsoring participants from underserved communities to receive training and certification.

Access Our Resources
and Get Involved

Join us in creating inclusive aquatic experiences for all. Whether you’re looking to participate, volunteer, or support our mission through donations or partnerships, your involvement makes a difference. Fill out the form below to connect with our team and learn how you can help expand access and impact.

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