Change of guard in PADI

As announced by the headquarters of the diving organisation PADI, its long-time CEO Brian P. Cronin is retiring after 17 years of adventure together. The new CEO and Chairman of the Board is Dr. Drew Richardson, who has been with PADI for over 27 years! The story began even earlier, in 1966, when Brian’s father

ByTomasz Andrukajtis

Published: August 18, 2012 - 11:34

Updated: July 22, 2023 - 05:04

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The story began even earlier, in 1966, when Brian’s father John Cronin and his friend Ralph Erickson decided over a bottle of whiskey that it was high time to set up a diving and training organisation.

Both men threw their thoughts on the subject on the table. The former wanted “professional” in the name, while his companion insisted on “association of diving instructors”. Together with a few glasses of black Jony Walker, they quickly arrived at the acronym PADI – Professional Association of Diving Instructors.

But let us return to the present. Today, after 46 years since those events, PADI is the largest organisation associating and training recreational divers. In its structures it has over 60tys. Establishments, 138tys. members in 180 countries! As you can see a good idea, watered with the right “fertilizer” must end in global success.

In announcing his decision, Brian P. Cronin, thanked everyone for their cooperation and described the opportunity to work at PADI as an honour. He also expressed his confidence that the leadership of the organisation was passing into good hands.

Source: padi.com

About author

Tomasz Andrukajtis

Editor-in-chief of the DIVERS24 portal and magazine. Responsible for obtaining, translating and developing content. He also supervises all publications. Achived his first diving certification – P1 CMAS, in 2000. Has a degree in journalism and social communication. In the diving industry since 2008.