In the early 1980’s I began my career in hyperbaric/diving medicine at the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in Miami, Florida. I was trained as a Hyperbaric Technologist, Diver Medic, and Multiplace Chamber Operator.
My experience encompasses both Multiplace and Monoplace hyperbaric chambers systems, and rescue diving operations. I'm a graduate of Broward County Fire Academy and completed training as an EMT/Paramedic at Miami-Dade Medical Center campus. I worked as a Firefighter/Paramedic and was attached to the Dive Rescue Team. For six years I was an Instructor for the Walt Disney World - Epcot Dive Quest Team. I’m a PADI Course Director, Emergency First Response Instructor-Trainer, DAN Instructor-Trainer and American Heart Association BLS Training Center Faculty. In 1998 I earned my NBDHMT Certified Hyperbaric Technologist (CHT) Certification with “Distinction”. In 2002 I was one of the first to be formally trained as a Hyperbaric Safety Director. For 20 years (2003-23) I served as an Undersea & Hyperbaric Medical Society (UHMS) Hyperbaric Facility Accreditation Surveyor. For six years (2012-18) I was appointed to serve on the UHMS Accreditation Council. I am well versed in NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) codes and regulations. For 16 years (2007-23) I served on the Standards Committee on Hyperbaric and Hypobaric Facilities of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). In 2023 I successfully passed the American Board of Wound Healing (ABWH) Certified Hyperbaric Specialist (CHS) examination.
I'm a recipient of several community service awards: Hallandale Fire Department “Official Commendation” – PADI “Certificate of Recognition for Excellence” – Reedy Creek Emergency Services / Walt Disney World “Certificate of Recognition” – PADI “Good Samaritan Award” – St. Joseph’s-Baptist Health Care “Life Saving Award”.
I have authored two specialty courses (Diving Accident Management, and Introduction to Hyperbarics) for the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) and co-authored several abstracts on hyperbaric medicine presented at the UHMS Annual Scientific meetings and Chapter meetings.