MOD
MOD (Master Of Diving) is a well-respected professional certification issued by various diving organizations. It represents dive professionals who have reached advanced instructor levels and can teach and supervise other instructors-in-training. Think of it as a "teacher of teachers" in the scuba diving world. Divers with MOD certification can develop training programs, conduct instructor evaluations, and often hold leadership positions at dive centers. This is similar to having a master's degree in education, but for scuba diving instruction.
Examples in Resumes
Achieved MOD certification and trained over 50 instructor candidates
Served as lead MOD instructor at Blue Ocean Dive Resort, supervising 12 instructors
Developed new training materials as MOD Course Director
Typical job title: "Master Scuba Diving Instructors"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Master Scuba Diving Instructors
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Industry Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you develop and implement new instructor training programs?
Expected Answer: Look for answers that demonstrate experience in creating structured learning plans, understanding different learning styles, and ability to adapt training methods to various situations while maintaining safety standards.
Q: How do you handle risk management in instructor training scenarios?
Expected Answer: Strong answers should cover safety protocols, emergency response planning, proper documentation, and preventive measures while training new instructors.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you evaluate instructor candidates' teaching abilities?
Expected Answer: Should discuss observation techniques, assessment criteria, providing constructive feedback, and ensuring teaching standards are met consistently.
Q: What strategies do you use to mentor new instructors?
Expected Answer: Look for examples of leadership, communication skills, problem-solving approaches, and ability to guide professional development.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the key safety considerations when supervising beginner instructors?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate basic knowledge of safety protocols, emergency procedures, and proper supervision techniques.
Q: How do you maintain certification standards while teaching?
Expected Answer: Should show understanding of certification requirements, teaching standards, and basic quality control measures.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years after instructor certification)
- Basic instructor supervision
- Teaching fundamentals
- Safety procedures
- Basic course organization
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced teaching techniques
- Student evaluation methods
- Emergency management
- Instructor mentoring
Senior (5+ years)
- Program development
- Quality control management
- Risk assessment
- Training program direction
Red Flags to Watch For
- Lack of current diving certification
- No experience teaching entry-level courses
- Poor safety record or incident history
- Insufficient logged diving hours
- No emergency response training
