DIR friendly recreational OW programs

[WhiteSands]

Not sure if it's available in your area, but I think PSAI does OW training DIR style also.

I have no experience with it, but know someone from a dive trip was was trained by PSAI.

Crossing over to UTD as an instructor is another possibility for you as a PADI DM. But I don't know how much $$$$ it'll take though, but just something you might want to consider.

 

[SanDiegoSidemount]

I'm very impressed with what UTD offers, they have some great programs. Students have the option of learning sidemount right from the start in their recreational OW class. There are many, many paths to take in their course offerings depending on your interests.

Above all, UTD courses emphasize skills, knowledge, competence and teamwork. Their basic OW course is one of the most comprehensive recreational OW programs I've seen, with much more pool and ocean time than many programs offer. They are probably turning out some of the most competent "beginner" divers in the country.

The fact that all their training happens to be DIR style is kind of an extra bonus.

The San Diego staff travel a lot to do IDC trainings, so don't rule them out because of geography. Also there are more and more UTD affiliates popping up around the country and worldwide. Another option is to take a dive vacation with them (say, to the Red Sea?) and do your IDC at the same time.