Find a local shop, there's probably not one in Sandy but isn't SLC nearby. Here's a PADI shop locator - they're probably the largest Scuba certification agency in the U.S. but that doesn't really matter as a Certification card from any of them is accepted by all.
PADI | The Way the World Learns to Dive®
I'm SSI certified so here's ours:
SSI Scuba Schools International - you'll probably have more options with PADI locally.
NAUI is the 3rd large recreational agency:
Locate NAUI Dive Centers | NAUI Worldwide. Dive Safety Through Education
Here's one option a google search turned up:
Scuba Utah Official Website Notice that you save a little by doing the e-learning first which can be done at home. If you go with them, you will need a code from them at signup to ensure the proper credit is issued.
One thing you have going for you is Homestead Crater - they stretch to call it the only warm water diving in the continental US since last time I checked all the southern states were still part of the continental US but oh well...
Homestead Crater | Homestead Resort
I've heard they've even introduced tropical fish there and maybe one small shark? Something like a bullshark could live there - you occasionally hear of them in golf course lakes in the south.
You'll learn a lot here also. One place to start is:
How to find an excellent SCUBA class
It's good to find a local shop for your basic gear. It may cost a little more but everything can be fit. Realistically around $300 should cover mask/boots/fins/snorkel which is usually required for the class, everything else can be rented/purchased later.
Buy a mask that fits. The easiest way to tell is hold it up to your face and inhale - if it stays on it's a contender. You can buy a $20 mask or a $120 mask - both work. Should be tempered glass but all are if they're for dive use. Low-volume preferred as they're easier to clear.
Fins/boots buy what you like that fits. They can get pretty expensive or not.Paddle fins are much easier to back up in than split-fins which are easier on your legs but more for reef touring. As you age you'll appreciate split-fins more IMO. The reason they're all more expensive doesn't mean they're better, just that Nature's Wing had some good patent attorneys so everyone selling them pays a hefty licensing fee. It's what I use - mine are Tusa Xpert Zooms.
I'm a fan of the $20 snorkel. Just a simple open bore - you'll mostly use it in class. Mine dry-rots about every 4-5 years from riding around in my bag and I buy another one. If you're doing a lot of shore diving or long swims you might want to consider a better one.
