Mike LydonAssistant Instructor
Mike Lydon's Gallery:
Background:
Born and raised in Brighton, Mike has been diving since 2015 and serves as a full-time Boston firefighter. With over two decades in the Army Reserves, Mike’s life has always been rooted in service—but like many veterans and first responders, that path came with its own challenges.
After battling PTSD, Mike found diving to be more than just a hobby—it became a form of therapy. The calm of the underwater world offered a rare kind of peace, and that connection led him to the Tactical Reintegration Project (TRP), where he’s now an active member helping others find the same healing through water, community, and shared experience.
Favorite Dive Site:
While Mike has a deep appreciation for the rugged beauty of New England diving, Roatán holds a special place for its stunning contrast—vivid reef colors, warm water, and incredible visibility. It’s the kind of dive that feels like hitting a reset button, offering a different pace and perspective while still feeding the same love for exploration and underwater connection.
Favorite Creature:
Mike’s favorite underwater encounter? Lobsters, hands down. There’s something satisfying about spotting one tucked under a ledge or scuttling across the bottom, antennae waving. For him, they’re a classic part of New England diving—and a reminder that cold water has its own kind of treasure.
Favorite Certification Course:
Mike’s favorite certification course is Stress and Rescue. While he doesn’t teach it himself, he believes it’s one of the most valuable programs in diving. With his background in public safety, the course resonates deeply—it emphasizes preparedness, calm thinking under pressure, and the importance of taking care of others underwater. It’s the kind of training that sticks with you, both in and out of the water.
Goals In The Dive Industry:
Mike’s long-term goal in diving is to become a Public Safety Diving (PSD) instructor. With a background in firefighting and military service, he’s drawn to the discipline, teamwork, and purpose that PSD represents. For him, it’s a natural extension of the work he’s already doing—training to respond in high-stress environments and helping others stay safe while making an impact in their communities.