Riverview, FL – The National Association of Underwater Instructors (NAUI) is proud to announce the appointment of Dan Henderson as the new Regional Manager for the Northwest United States and Western Canada, effective May 1, 2025. Henderson succeeds Jim Larsen, who has provided dedicated leadership to the region and has been instrumental in building strong affiliate relationships throughout his tenure.
A seasoned diver and accomplished military veteran, Dan Henderson brings a diverse and dynamic background to the role. His diving journey began in 2013 with recreational diving, later advancing through the rigorous military Special Forces Combat Diver Qualification Course while serving in the US Army. In January 2021, he became a certified instructor and soon after opened his own training facility, Ranger Sport Scuba, in August 2021. Henderson joined Force Blue, the special operations veteran-led ocean conservation nonprofit, in 2022, further reinforcing his commitment to service both in and out of the water.
Angelo Fiore, NAUI Vice President of Global Sales, praised the selection:
Dan’s background serving his country for two decades first as an infantryman, then becoming a member of the US Army elite special forces as a Green Beret before transitioning to dive business owner, and educator, brings a unique combination of leadership, discipline, and field experience to the role. His passion for diving, service, and community will be a tremendous asset as NAUI continues to strengthen its presence across the Northwest U.S. and Western Canada.
Henderson has been a NAUI member for nearly five years, actively contributing to the organization through two terms on the NAUI Election Committee and being recognized with the NAUI Outstanding Service Award in 2022.
Before stepping into his new leadership role with NAUI, Henderson completed a distinguished career in the U.S. Army as a Green Beret with the 1st Special Forces Group, retiring in August 2022. He has since served as the Lead SCUBA Instructor at the Divers Institute of Technology in Seattle and continues to operate his dive business while also serving as a firefighter in Washington State.
“I’m truly honored to be a part of the best agency and professionals the world has to offer,” Henderson said of his new appointment. “I look forward to serving the members and the organization.”
In addition to his professional achievements, Dan is a CrossFit coach, a proud husband of 21 years, and father to a 20-year-old son—also a diver—continuing the family’s passion for the underwater world.
NAUI Worldwide welcomes Dan Henderson to his new position and looks forward to the continued growth and support he will bring to members, affiliates, and dive professionals across the region.
