Many people have asked me why I chose to be an independent instructor instead of working for a dive store. Certainly working for a dive store does have some benefits. Dive instructors who work at a dive store do not have to be proactive about finding new students to fill classes, you get discounts on dive equipment, discounted group instructor insurance, free air fills and the list grows. Even though there are many benefits to working at a dive store. However, there are many benefits to be an independent instructor that one should weight before making a decision. [Read more...]