We had the good fortune of connecting with George Mills and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi George, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Working in the scuba diving industry as a dive professional and instructor, I came across a concerning statistic: 80% of newly certified divers never return to the underwater world after completing their certification course. I attribute this issue to the scuba industry’s inclination towards offering “quick, cheap, and easy” courses that compromise the quality of training. I firmly believe that quality and professional scuba instruction are the foundations for nurturing confident and capable divers, ultimately enhancing their enjoyment of this exhilarating sport.

Scuba diving should be an incredibly enjoyable activity, and individuals are more likely to continue their diving adventures when they receive proper training from the outset. Motivated by this belief, I embarked on the journey of establishing DiveLogix Scuba Training and Support. My mission was clear: to provide an exceptional learning experience to my students that not only ensures they receive a first-rate education but also ignites a passion that keeps them submerged in the underwater realm.

I initiated DiveLogix Scuba Training and Support because I was confident in my ability to deliver personalized, private instruction tailored to the unique needs of my clients. This personalized approach guarantees that each individual receives the highest quality training, setting them on a path to becoming enthusiastic and lifelong divers.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
After nearly two decades of service in the Marine Corps serving in specialized units, I discovered my passion for instructing and developing fellow Marines. Subsequently, I transitioned into a new career as a Firefighter/Paramedic, starting from the ground up. However, I yearned for something of my own, which led me to establish this business—a service-disabled veteran-owned small business (SDVOSB)—dedicated to delivering uncompromising quality in scuba instruction and dive guiding.

My business model was meticulously planned, and I dedicated all my available time to bring my vision to life. While there are local dive shops where you can obtain scuba certification, there’s no guarantee that you’ll encounter a top-tier instructor with the integrity and commitment to ensure your success as a diver. How can you discern between a good and a subpar instructor without a point of comparison? My goal was to establish a reputation for providing premium, high-quality training, primarily tailored to private clients, and I stand behind this commitment.

In the world of scuba, the old adage holds true: you get what you pay for. If you seek “quick, cheap, and easy” solutions, my services may not align with your expectations. However, if you are willing to invest in outstanding, personalized training, then you are the type of client I aspire to train. Scuba is not an inexpensive pursuit, and opting for budget training could not only hinder your future in the sport but also pose potential risks. I take you into an alien environment, dependent on life support systems, to explore the depths beneath the sea—where humans are not naturally equipped to thrive. Trust me with your safety and that of your loved ones; I hold this responsibility in the highest regard.

In an industry that sometimes offers cut-rate classes, I am dedicated to challenging the prevailing standard by prioritizing the thorough training of a select few divers over the mass training of individuals with marginal skills.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.

I derive immense pleasure from treating my friends to exceptional seafood restaurants such as Prime Catch in Boynton Beach or the Banana Boat, where we can savor freshly caught delicacies and indulge in classic tropical drinks and/or cold beer. When organizing scuba expeditions for both my clients and friends, I actively seek out top-tier resorts and restaurants while personally opting for the timeless comfort of Hilton hotels. In Key Largo, I love eating at “Hobo’s” – it’s a diver’s classic.

My day typically begins early as I diligently assess the diving conditions and coordinate with the boat crews to ensure that our planned dive is a go. Following each exhilarating dive, we engage in the post-dive routine, including gear rinsing, tank refills, and preparations for the following day’s adventures. However, we consistently conclude these action-packed days with a delightful meal, making it a perfect way to unwind and bond.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My mentor is Dave Ochs, NAUI# 15918L, a former Chairman of the Executive Board of Directors of NAUI Worldwide and a current NAUI Course Director Trainer. I approached Dave with a request to help me become the best in the field. Three decades ago, he made a pivotal decision to leave a highly lucrative career and enroll at Hall’s Diving Center and Career Institute, a renowned institution comparable to an Ivy League school in the world of scuba instructor schools. His goal was to become a NAUI Instructor, as NAUI instructors have earned a reputation for producing exceptional divers. NAUI’s guiding principle, “Dive Safety Through Education,” resonated with me, and I aspired to become a NAUI dive professional myself.

Under Dave’s mentorship and expert guidance, I had the privilege of learning from one of the world’s foremost recreational scuba instructors, boasting three decades of teaching experience and having been trained by the best. Dave established the highly successful enterprise, “Aqua Safari Adventures,” which gained recognition for serving elite clientele. Working closely with Dave, I uncovered a valuable secret: excellence in scuba training extends beyond technical proficiency. It involves embodying true professionalism, humility, and being the type of person others naturally gravitate toward. Success also hinges on understanding and adapting to diverse learning styles. Consequently, I invested substantial time, energy, and effort into mastering these aspects of the craft.

Website: www.divelogix-scuba.com

Instagram: @divelogox

Facebook: DiveLogix Scuba Training and Support

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/divelogix-scuba-training-and-support-boynton-beach

Image Credits
Dave Ochs (classroom) Keith White (student on Wreck) Patti Mills (inside wreck wheelhouse)

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMiami is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.