Joe fits my definition of a professional ‘to the T!.’ A professional must master their field such that they can explain (otherwise) complicated concepts to absolutely anyone. Furthermore, a professional should not only be able to explain but ‘pass the torch’ by teaching absolutely anyone to perform to the highest and best practices known by the professional. In a sport like scuba, I am thankful for my divemaster professional Joe Solomon. He has taught me everything I know about scuba, all the while making himself and the concepts available till I’m able to perform independently. As a professional, Joe does not make the mistake of most hobbyists and amateurs of gloating about how awesome their skills are and shaming their peers over how nobody can reach their level without changing their whole life to commit to the sport first. I feel blessed to continue diving with Joe as a friend whenever I want to try new gear, go out for a wreck dive and need a buddy, or my new annual trip to Cozumel for diving with an ever growing group of dive buddies and friends that feel like family. Thank you Joe for who you are, what you know, and how well you teach/share with others
