The National Association of Black Scuba Divers proudly recognizes Courtlandt Butts as our March Spotlight Diver — a leader whose career reflects excellence, progression, and unwavering commitment to dive safety and education.
With more than 30 years of experience in aquatic instruction, safety training, youth development, and SCUBA education, Courtlandt continues to elevate standards within our dive community and beyond.
🥇 Advancing to Instructor Trainer
Recently, Courtlandt achieved a major professional milestone by becoming a NAUI Instructor Trainer with the National Association of Underwater Instructors.
An Instructor Trainer prepares and evaluates future dive instructors — shaping the professionals who will go on to certify and mentor divers worldwide. This distinction represents the highest levels of leadership in:
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Instructor development
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Risk management & safety oversight
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Training standards compliance
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Quality assurance in dive education
This accomplishment reflects both technical mastery and a deep commitment to developing others.
🌊 A Journey of Progression
Courtlandt has personally completed the NABS One Level Up Program, demonstrating continuous advancement in skill, leadership, and responsibility.
His work spans the full training pipeline:
✔ Non-Swimmer → Swimmer development
✔ Learn-to-Swim programming
✔ Open Water Diver progression
✔ Advanced & Rescue training
✔ Instructor development
✔ Instructor Trainer status
He is also a Full Face Mask Instructor with Ocean Reef, expanding advanced equipment and safety training opportunities for divers.
🚑 Safety Beyond the Dive
In addition to dive instruction, Courtlandt is an Instructor Trainer in:
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CPR
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First Aid
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Emergency Oxygen Administration
His leadership reinforces that true dive excellence includes preparedness above and below the surface.
🌍 Service & Impact
Courtlandt serves as:
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Dive Safety Officer – NABS & NABS Foundation
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Chair – Aqua Corps Committee
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Dive Safety Officer – Junior Scientists in the Sea
Through these roles, he ensures that safety, structure, and mentorship remain central to our organization’s mission.
Courtlandt Butts exemplifies what it means to grow with purpose and lead with integrity. His journey reflects not only personal achievement, but collective elevation.
Ubuntu — I am because we are.
#NABSDivers #SpotlightDiver #OneLevelUp #NAUI #OceanReef #DiveSafety #Ubuntu
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