Programs that build divers, scientists, and leaders
We combine education, mentorship, scholarships, and stewardship to open the underwater world — and prepare a new generation to protect it.
Four pillars, working together
Our model is integrated: education builds skills, mentorship builds confidence, scholarships remove barriers, and stewardship connects divers to the waters and communities they protect. Together they turn curiosity into capability and leadership.
A closer look at each pathway
Education & Training
- Who it's for
- New and aspiring divers, ages 14+.
- What you gain
- Foundational skills, safety practices, and certification pathways.
- Example activities
- Workshops, pool sessions, open-water training, and certification prep.
Mentorship
- Who it's for
- Participants seeking guidance and experienced divers who want to give back.
- What you gain
- One-on-one support, career insight, and a trusted community.
- Example activities
- Mentor matching, group meet-ups, and field shadowing.
Scholarships
- Who it's for
- Divers and students with financial need.
- What you gain
- Funding for training, gear, and field research.
- Example activities
- Need-based awards, certification grants, and research stipends.
Community & Stewardship
- Who it's for
- Anyone who cares about healthy waters.
- What you gain
- Connection, purpose, and hands-on impact.
- Example activities
- Cleanups, citizen science, and community dive events.
The Dr. Albert José Jones Scholarship
Continuing “Doc” Jones’ 70-year legacy of breaking down racial and economic barriers in diving.
Established to honor UAS founder and NABS co-founder Dr. Albert José Jones — Purple Heart veteran, Fulbright Scholar, former Dean and Provost at UDC, and master scuba instructor who certified thousands of divers free of charge. Open to high school, undergraduate, and graduate students in scuba diving, marine sciences, maritime archaeology, and science journalism.
Dr. Albert José “Doc” Jones
“If you never see anyone who looks like you doing something, you probably won't do it.”
Funding that removes the cost barrier
Our scholarship funds cover training, gear, and field research so financial need is never what keeps someone from the water.
Eligibility snapshot
- Demonstrated financial need or underrepresented background
- Commitment to diving safety, marine science, or conservation
- Interest in maritime archaeology, research, or aquatic storytelling
- Able to complete program training and field requirements
Guidance that builds confidence and careers
We match experienced divers, scientists, and leaders with mentees ready to grow — creating pathways from curiosity to capability.
Become a MentorMentor pathway
Share experience, guide a mentee, and shape the next generation.
Mentee pathway
Get matched with a mentor and build skills with trusted support.
Skills, safety, and certifications
Workshops, pool and open-water training, and certification prep — built on recognized safety standards.
Find a workshopEvents, cleanups, citizen science
Hands-on ways to give back — from coastal cleanups to citizen science that protects local waters.
Join an eventQuestions about participating
Support a participant
Your gift directly funds training, gear, and scholarships for the next generation of divers and stewards.