Brent Clevenger is the owner of Sink or Swim Scuba and has spent more than two decades helping divers build real confidence and operational capability. His work ranges from first-time recreational students to public safety dive teams operating in complex, high-risk environments across the East Coast and throughout the United States.

With a professional background in emergency services and law enforcement, Brent developed a training philosophy centered on strong fundamentals, situational awareness, and repeatable performance under stress. His approach emphasizes decision-making, preparation, and disciplined execution, skills that matter when visibility is poor, conditions are unpredictable, and the margin for error is small.

Sink or Swim Scuba regularly works with divers certified through PADI and other major training agencies, and Brent frequently supports divers and teams transitioning between systems so they can continue their training without unnecessary repetition. The focus is never on agency labels, but on helping divers build long-term competence while maintaining high safety and performance standards.

Brent is recognized as an SDI Elite Scuba Instructor and leads training pathways that support both recreational advancement and professional-level diving goals. For public safety teams, his instruction and consultation may include ERDI-focused training, surface-supplied air operations, dive team procedures, equipment configuration, and crime scene and evidence recovery considerations tailored to the mission requirements and operating environment of each team.

In addition to instruction, Brent provides nationwide on-site public safety dive team training along with equipment sales, service support, and program development consultation. He works with agencies and organizations seeking to strengthen readiness, improve operational safety, and build sustainable dive programs grounded in real-world application rather than theory alone.

Brent and the Sink or Swim Scuba team approach public safety diving engagements as long-term partnerships rather than traditional vendor relationships. The focus is on working alongside teams to understand their mission, operating environment, staffing realities, and budget constraints. Rather than pushing unnecessary equipment or one-size-fits-all programs, Brent works collaboratively with agencies to prioritize safety, readiness, and sustainability through phased training plans and realistic equipment recommendations.

Brent serves as a public safety diving training and equipment specialist for teams that value disciplined procedures, reliable equipment, and long-term diver competency. Whether supporting a local dive operation or working with agencies across state lines, his role remains focused on safer operations and practical, defensible training outcomes.

If you are looking for a dive organization that prioritizes real skill development, safety, and long-term confidence in the water, Brent and the Sink or Swim Scuba team are ready to help you take the next step locally, regionally, or nationwide.

RECOGNITION AND CREDENTIALS

Best Dive Shop in Charlotte 2025

SDI Elite Scuba Instructor Award

Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office Supporters of the Star Award 2023

Recognized by the Gastonia Police Underwater Search and Recovery Team 2000 to 2006

North Carolina Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced Law Enforcement Certifications

ERDI Instructor with public safety diving specialty training options

Dive Rescue International training including Dive Rescue I, Dive Rescue II, and Medical Dive Technician

Divemaster and PADI Master Scuba Diver

Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice and Protective Services

Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice

Completed graduate coursework in Public Administration