The hole nut in a shell here is if you have no intention of teaching then there no need to become a DM. The money you spend for the course would be better spenden taking specialtys courses that interest you.
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Still, to me it is worth it, but, as it states you are 55, you might think about not working on a boat. That is not to be mean, as one of the best DMs I have know was 64. What it is though, is people's safe return to the boat on a bad day (pretty, flat, clear days rarely have that type of problem) may be dependent on your swimming 400 yds or more to catch a panicked diver, then helping to pull them back aboard to help with O2 or CPR or anything else. That can cause a lot of strain.
I am considering taking the DiveMaster training. Any thoughts or suggestions are welcomed. What should I expect? Is the primary focus of the DiveMaster course, the training of students? Learning new skills? Learning boat activity management? Employment? What are the employment opportunitys for a divemaster? What is the typical pay rate?
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I have zero interest in becoming a full Instructor, though I'll likely do AI, for personal interest. Given this has made my diving free, skills better, and I get to participate (in my small way) is helping new people learn to do something I enjoy, it's definitely been worthwhile.
Im not sure it will die a death. Its great for the business involved - they get 3 or 4 free slaves to work for the entire season.