Riverview, Florida — In a significant step to facilitate the connection between the United States Armed Forces and the world of underwater exploration and careers in the diving industry, the National Association of Underwater Instructors (NAUI) has launched a modernized and updated Armed Forces website.

The newly launched website, accessible at www.naui.org/certifications/armed-forces/ provides up-to-date information on participation in the Department of Defense (DOD) SkillBridge Program with NAUI and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) G.I. Bill® test fees reimbursement benefits for NAUI courses and licenses. Information on the Armed Forces hub focuses on current U.S. service members, veterans, NAUI dive shops, and affiliates.

A Hub for U.S. Service Members and Veterans

With a clear and streamlined design, the new web pages have been crafted to serve current U.S. service members and veterans seeking information on both programs. The DOD SkillBridge program, in collaboration with NAUI, offers professional training and work experience for transitioning service members to launch their career in the dive industry. This partnership allows current active-duty U.S. service members to train, work and gain experience within the diving industry while still earning their military pay and benefits for up to 180 days before their military service ends.

Similarly, Veterans Affairs GI Bill® benefits facilitate reimbursement of test fees for many NAUI courses and licenses for both current U.S. service members and veterans allowing them to launch their careers in the dive industry or begin their journey into underwater exploration with little or no cost.

Opportunities for Dive Shops and Affiliates

NAUI’s new Armed Forces hub doesn’t just cater to U.S. service members and veterans; it also includes information tailored to NAUI dive shops and affiliates interested in participating in both the DOD SkillBridge and the GI Bill® programs. These resources aim to foster partnerships and enable NAUI dive shops and affiliates to support veterans and service members in their journey into the diving industry or recreational diving.

Modernized and User-Friendly

Emphasizing ease of use and accessibility, NAUI’s new hub is equipped with up-to-date information and resources. Its launch reflects NAUI’s continued commitment to supporting U.S. armed forces members and veterans in their transition into civilian life.

“This is more than just a website,” said a NAUI representative. “It’s a hub that connects our armed forces community and our NAUI dive shops and affiliates with opportunities, education, and a pathway to success in the diving industry.”

In creating a centralized location for information and support, NAUI has taken a significant step toward ensuring that veterans, service members, and NAUI dive shops and affiliates have the tools they need to thrive in a dynamic and growing industry.

The new website symbolizes not only modernization but a growing synergy between military service, professional training, and the world of opportunity that awaits in the dive industry. It stands as a testament to collaboration and progress in a time when connectivity and support are more crucial than ever for U.S military members and NAUI dive shops.

For more information, please visit NAUI’s Armed Forces hub at: www.naui.org/certifications/armed-forces/

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at www.benefits.va.gov/gibill