In the Candidates in the Spotlight series, we talk to our PADI IDC candidates about their experiences during and after the IDC.
Our candidates come from all over the world and from all walks of life! This time, we talk to Fabian from Germany. Fabian completed his IDC with us in Koh Chang and we helped him to land a job in the Maldives. It’s very rare for instructors to secure a job in the Maldives, straight after the IDC, but Fabian did it!
What made you want to become a diving instructor?
It was clear to me early on that I wanted to turn my passion into a career. The underwater world as a workplace and marine life as a daily companion. That was a vision that truly excited me. As a Divemaster, I was already guiding many divers, but as an instructor I have the opportunity to train people from scratch and guide them on their journey into the fascinating world of diving.
Why did you decide to do your IDC on Koh Chang?
Koh Chang offers ideal conditions for training. The dive sites are varied, the reefs are beautiful, and the atmosphere is noticeably more relaxed than at many other dive destinations. You get the chance to learn at your own pace, without everything being geared towards mass tourism.
What was the hardest part of the IDC?
Definitely the nerves before the exams 😆. You invest a lot of time and energy into the training and of course you want to pass. Looking back, most of it wasn’t nearly as daunting as it felt beforehand.
Does the IDC really prepare you well for teaching?
Yes, the IDC provides a very solid foundation for starting out as a diving instructor. The training gives you the knowledge and tools you need. A lot of it develops with practice, though. After countless courses and months on the job, I’ve found my own teaching style, and I’m still learning from other instructors to this day.
What should Divemasters look out for when choosing an IDC?
It’s important to choose a dive school where you feel comfortable and where the instruction is clear and easy to understand. Especially for complex topics, it can be a real advantage if the training is conducted in your own language. It’s also worth paying attention to the quality of support and the Course Director’s experience.
Is the IDC worth the money and time?
For me, absolutely. The two weeks go by faster than you’d think, and the investment can pay off quickly in your later career. Above all, the instructor certification opens up a lot of new opportunities within the diving industry.
How did you find your job in the Maldives?
The connection came through my Course Director Marcel, whom I got to know during my training. We stayed in touch after the IDC, and through his network he was able to put in a good word for me.
What does a typical day in the Maldives look like for you?
My day usually starts at 6 in the morning with a gym session. After breakfast, I open the dive center, welcome the guests, and get the diving activities ready. Then it’s off to the boat or the house reef. Most days consist of two dive trips, and occasionally there are training courses on the schedule too. After that, the tanks need filling and the equipment has to be cleaned and prepped. Once the workday wraps up at 6 pm, I love watching the sunset on the beach and winding down in a relaxed way.
What tips can you give others who want to become diving instructors?
Stay curious and open to new experiences. Listen to feedback, learn from other instructors, and try to gain as much experience as possible in different places. Every region, every body of water, and every team brings new perspectives. It’s also worth starting to build a good network in the diving industry, that can be incredibly valuable down the line.
