I'm posting this information to raise awareness for those people thinking about "going pro" or who recently have become divemasters or instructors about what is becoming an under-handed and devaluing employment tactic in the diving industry. They should seek opportunities elsewhere rather than do the job of a DM or instructor as an unpaid intern.
I also want to raise awareness for employers who might not realize that such unpaid internships might be illegal and give them food for thought to research the situation for themselves and offer proper employment opportunities.
While it might not seem like a dive operation would have deep enough pockets to interest an attorney, there are enough young, hungry, and desperate lawyers out there who could use a few bucks. I once lived with one in Miami. If she thought she could win a case, she pounced.
I also want to raise awareness for employers who might not realize that such unpaid internships might be illegal and give them food for thought to research the situation for themselves and offer proper employment opportunities.
While it might not seem like a dive operation would have deep enough pockets to interest an attorney, there are enough young, hungry, and desperate lawyers out there who could use a few bucks. I once lived with one in Miami. If she thought she could win a case, she pounced.