Here is my advice to gill-ross. Find a place you love that has good diving, at least three dive shops, and that offers training through instructor. Sign up for certification with one of the shops, and learn to dive. Hang around the shop and let them know you are willing to work, doing anything, from cleaning the bathrooms to loading tanks on a boat. While working, progress through advanced and rescue classes, and spend time hanging out with the equipment servicing and repair guys and learn all you can about that aspect of the business. In the meantime become familiar with the different types of equipment and the unique aspects of each. On the side, learn a second language, so you can be of use in two languages with customers. When you are ready, begin divemaster training, perhaps trading work for the materials and training. Once certified as a DM, volunteer to do scuba reviews and assist with classes. ( no pay). Learn from instructors, develop you skills, and then do the idc. In the meantime, you may have worked yourself in to leading a few tourist dives as an insured and on-staff DM. Be on time for everything, work at getting better in your craft everyday, and be willing to do any job needed. Three years from know you may well be a salty local character, beloved by all, who is actually making a living as a dive instructor/DM/equipment repairman/janitor/boat hand.
DIvemasterDennis