Unified Team Diving (UTD), a global leader in “thinking diver” education and team-based scuba training, has announced a new phase of leadership and strategic growth.
Co-Managing Directors Ben Bos and Jeremiah Gardner have formally assumed leadership responsibilities following the retirement of UTD founder Jeff Seckendorf from day-to-day management.
Founded on the principle of developing “thinking divers” — divers who prioritize critical thinking, mastery, environmental stewardship, and team cohesion — UTD has spent more than 15 years shaping a distinct global community. Since 2022, UTD has trained, coached, or mentored more than 2,500 divers across more than 20 countries.
“Our focus remains clear: to develop the next generation of divers who think, adapt, and lead — both underwater and beyond,” said Ben Bos, co-managing director. “As we move into this next chapter, we are committed to building vibrant regional communities, strengthening diver education pathways, and expanding our global presence while stayi
In line with the transition, UTD has launched an internal and community-wide listening period to invite input, dialogue, and co-creation from divers and instructors around the world.
“This is not just about leadership change,” said Jeremiah Gardner, co-managing director. “This is about reinforcing a movement — one where every diver is empowered to think critically, act as a teammate, and contribute meaningfully to the future of diving.”
Although Seckendorf is stepping away from management responsibilities, he will continue to be an active instructor within UTD. He remains deeply committed to training and mentoring divers under the same philosophies that shaped the organization.
Unified Team Diving continues to offer a wide range of recreational, technical, cave, and rebreather training programs, all rooted in a philosophy that prioritizes demonstrated competence over checklist certification.