A First-Timer’s Journey: My Experience at the 2024 ADPA Symposium
Carmen Montalvo, Herps & Aquatics Keeper/DSO, Brevard Zoo
When I first received news that my application for the 2024 Brett Dodson Scholarship was accepted, I could hardly believe it. I was going to Vegas! Little did I know, my first Association of Diving Program Administrators (ADPA) Symposium would turn out to be a pivotal experience in my journey as a Dive Safety Officer (DSO). The Brett Dodson Scholarship not only made it possible for me to attend this incredible event, but it also gave me the opportunity to connect with other professionals in the field in a way that emails and virtual meetings could never provide. The warmth and support of the ADPA community made me feel welcomed and right at home from the very first day.
One of the highlights of the Symposium was the incredible range of presentations. As a DSO, it’s easy to overlook how much there is to learn outside of diving skills. I found myself captivated by each presentation, eager to apply what I was learning to my own work.
- Risk Management: Steps After an Accident – Jeff Reid from the Georgia Aquarium provided insights on managing post-incident steps that were invaluable. His focus on contacting the right people, gathering data, and reporting was a game-changer in how I plan to approach potential incidents in the future.
- Diving – Beyond the Glass – James Bonovich’s discussion on presentation diving opened my eyes to how we can engage the public in new and innovative ways. His mobile presentation system was inspiring and gave me a whole new perspective on what’s possible within the field.
- Diving Is the Easy Part – Jake Emmert’s session was one that I truly connected with. It really made me reflect on the broader responsibilities of a DSO, beyond diving itself. The question, “How do you want to live?” is one that continues to resonate with me and will shape how I approach my role going forward.
- LGBTQ+ and Dive Safety – The presentation by Niko Kowell was particularly moving. His work in advocating for inclusivity and safety for trans divers is an important step forward for the diving community, and I am proud to support this movement.
As we plan for the future of the Bowen Aquarium here at the Brevard Zoo, I left the Symposium feeling better prepared to launch a safe and sustainable volunteer diving program. I was particularly inspired by the session on volunteer dive programs for AZA-accredited organizations and look forward to implementing some of their strategies into our own operations.
Although DEMA wasn’t a new experience for me, I appreciated how it complemented the Symposium. I had the chance to engage with dive manufacturers and make valuable connections for our future aquarium. I’m looking forward to attending both the Symposium and Training Day next year in Florida, which will provide even more opportunities for learning and collaboration.
If you’re new to the ADPA or considering attending your first Symposium, I highly recommend applying for the Brett Dodson Scholarship. It was a transformative experience for me, and I’m confident it will be for you too. The connections, knowledge, and inspiration you gain will stay with you long after the event ends.
