Steve DeNeef
Instructor Certifier
Steve was certified with NASDS in 1984 while serving in the Marine Corps at Camp Pendleton at USA and started working here in 1985 for the original owner, where he learned  how to be a dive leader, repair gear and customer service. He became an instructor in 1992 and instructor certifier in 1998 right after we bought the shop and we became SSI in 1999.
He still loves scuba and teaching others to become safe and confident divers. He also has over 10,000 dives and still enjoys 99% of them. When conditions are good he is out on the boat diving, fishing or both (unless the Chargers are playing).

Nathan  Kidd
Dive Control Specialist

Nathan has been diving since 1999. He first started diving in Florida where he started perusing his passion for the underwater sport of scuba. Just like the rest of the crew here at Underwater Schools of America (USA) our goal is not to just certify as many students as possible but to develop responsible and safe divers. Nathan holds the certification of dive control specialist and is currently working towards his open water instructor certification. Weather you are a student or already a certified diver Nathan will take the time necessary to insure that you are having a safe and fun experience.

Buddy
The dog
Buddy was adopted in 2006 and he is Steve’s  dog. He goes on the boat and anywhere Steve can take him (otherwise he pouts).  He is the shop dog and likes when other dogs (friendly one‘s) come over and play.
He hates diving because he doesn’t like the water. He does however enjoy drinking pool water!! He really does have the perfect name. He goes nuts when people are in the pool and becomes our entertainment. Buddy is a good dog!!!!! Just ask him.

Jake DeNeef
The kid
Jake is 14 years old and a better diver than most. He was born and raised around diving.
 He is very good at helping out here at the shop with almost everything. He is very good with customers and hunting gear. He was the first model for xx small BC’s, mouthpieces and dive jackets. He has dove in southern Ca. water and  many tropical waters. He has 150+  logged dives. Like Buddy he is a good boy.

Layne Richardson
Layne was certified at USA in 2003. She is working at USA part time and going to college.  After she was certified she went to the Galapagos Islands. Her favorite dive is San Clemente Island!  She has been diving ever since, and loves diving more and more.