Summer Chamberlain Goes From Military Recruiter to Scuba Diving Instructor

By Robert White, Editor-in-Chief

Summer Chamberlain’s journey into the deep blue began in 2016, during a seemingly ordinary vacation in the Bahamas. What started as a spontaneous decision to join a group of scuba divers turned into a passion that would eventually lead her to a whole new career. Chamberlain, who spent two decades in the military as a recruiter for doctors, nurses, and dentists, found solace beneath the waves. Scuba diving became more than just a hobby; it was a way to escape the high-pressure demands of her job and immerse herself in an environment where the only sound was the gentle rhythm of her own breath.

After completing her initial open water certification during that trip, Summer’s love for scuba diving only grew. She continued to pursue her new passion, progressing through the ranks of diving certifications. "When you start, everyone begins as an open water diver," she explains. "From there, you can advance with more training in deep dives, underwater photography, and decompression techniques." As she mastered these skills, she ventured into specialized areas such as shipwreck diving, night diving, and nitrox diving, which allows divers to extend their time underwater.

Her dedication led her to Xcalak, Mexico, where she spent an intense month in 2021, living aboard a boat, diving three times a day, and studying for hours in between. The rigorous schedule paid off when she became a Dive Master. In 2022, she took the final step and became a certified scuba diving instructor, a title she now proudly holds while based in upstate New York.

For those interested in learning scuba diving, Summer recommends beginning with classes at Tioga County Scuba Academy, where she currently teaches from June to October. The Academy is still in its early stages, with a website on the way, but prospective students can contact her directly via email.

Diving is not without its challenges, as Summer is quick to point out. "People with claustrophobia don’t always adapt well to scuba diving, partly because of the weight of the equipment," she notes. Being a strong swimmer is also crucial, as the sport demands a certain level of physical fitness. "There’s a test where you have to swim eight laps in a pool and tread water for ten minutes. Some people float on their backs, but it’s important to be confident and safe in the water."

Despite the challenges, the rewards of scuba diving are immense. Chamberlain’s story is a testament to the transformative power of pursuing a passion. From the structured life of military service to the serene depths of the ocean, she has found a way to balance both worlds. And now, she is eager to share that experience with others, guiding them through the journey of becoming certified scuba divers and, perhaps, finding the same peace she discovered beneath the waves.

For more information about Summer Chamberlain and Tioga County Scuba Academy, keep an eye out for their upcoming website or reach out to Summer directly via email. summerchamberlain@yahoo.com