Duane Jenkins Earns SDI Elite Instructor Status at Sink or Swim Scuba

Brent Clevenger   Jan 06, 2026

This is a belated post — Duane was awarded this recognition a while back (as was I) — but it’s absolutely worth celebrating. SDI Elite Instructor status reflects consistent, high-quality instruction, strong student outcomes, and a commitment to doing training the right way: safe, thorough, and built around real diver confidence

What This Means for Our Students

At Sink or Swim Scuba, we believe scuba training should produce divers who feel comfortable and capable — not just certified. Duane’s teaching style is calm, clear, and supportive, and he’s helped divers from Gastonia, Charlotte, Belmont, Lake Wylie, and Lake Norman build skills that carry into every dive they do afterward.

Whether you’re starting with SDI Open Water Diver or continuing your education, you’re training with a team that takes instruction seriously and cares about your experience. 

Meet Duane Jenkins: Duane is our Lead Instructor at Sink or Swim Scuba and an SDI Elite Instructor known for calm, clear coaching and thorough skill development.
Read Duane’s bio: 

Congratulations, Duane

Duane, thank you for the time, professionalism, and attention to detail you bring to every class. We’re grateful to have you leading our training programs — and we’re proud of you.

Ready to Get Scuba Certified Near Charlotte, NC?

If you’re looking for SDI scuba certification near Charlotte / Gastonia, we’d love to help you get started.

• Visit: SinkOrSwimScuba.com

• Call: (704) 823-0501

• Stop by: 4310K Wilkinson Blvd, Gastonia, NC 28056

Sink or Swim Scuba — SDI training, continuing education, and a community built around confident divers.