Scuba Diver, Marine Biologist, Ocean Conservationist
PALM BEACH GARDENS, FLA.
Born and raised in a small rural town in Kentucky, Steven grew up surrounded by open spaces, hills, farms, hiking trails and lakes. As a youngster, he loved exploring and seeing animals. For a few years, his family lived in Florida near a beach, which cemented his love for the ocean. Steven is currently in the process of creating and deploying artificial reefs in South Florida. His nonprofit, The Reef Genesis Corporation, is his life’s passion — and not just the artificial reef creation but also developing and refining technologies to help restore and protect all aquatic environments that are interconnected with the oceans.
WHY I LOVE THE OCEAN:
All I ever wanted to do is scuba dive and explore the ocean. I am now a marine biologist and my life revolves around doing what I can to protect the ocean, educate all ages about its importance and spread awareness for what we all can do to help. My favorite part of being underwater is the freedom you feel. The sensation of being embraced by the ocean and manipulating your body to move through the water is a feeling like no other. It is truly otherworldly.
HOW I STARTED SCUBA DIVING:
I am originally from Owensboro, Kentucky. My family lived in the Florida Panhandle when I was very young and my interest in the ocean began there. I received my PADI Open Water certification for my 13th birthday and then embarked on the ocean journey that has led me to where I am today. My passion for the ocean started at that young age and continues to this day.
WHO I ADMIRE:
The major influence I had as a child was Jacques Cousteau. The Ocean World TV show was a religious watch for me. I relished every episode. I could not get enough. From as young as I can remember I wanted to emulate Jacques Cousteau. Exploring the ocean and making documentaries was my dream.
WHEN I’M NOT DIVING:
I’m a general contractor and experienced finish carpenter. I love to build things. I enjoy being active. Anything involving the water is obviously my first choice, but I do enjoy other sports and activities. I grew up playing all the traditional sports, and picked up Ultimate Frisbee in college. Throwing a frisbee is to this day one of my favorite things to do. I love to run, bike and swim. I love to listen to and play music. Photography and cinematography are also major interests of mine and I have begun focusing on them heavily. I have two beautiful daughters who love the ocean as well. I enjoy every second of time I can spend with them in any capacity, and absolutely love to take them exploring in the ocean.
MY FAVORITE CRESSI GEAR:
When I was 19 years old I was given a pair of Cressi long fins to use during my divemaster training. In my mind, the Cressi long fins were an elite item to have as a diver. I fell in love with them and have always held Cressi as the gold standard for my underwater gear.
WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A CRESSI OCEAN AMBASSADOR:
When the opportunity presented itself to be an Ambassador, it was an absolute no-brainer. To carry the Cressi name as I explore, protect and spread awareness for the ocean is an honor. I look forward to using and promoting Cressi gear for the duration of my time in the ocean, and beyond.
FIND ME:
Patricia Wuest
Maitland, Florida, USA Dive Magazine Journalist, Scuba Gear Tester, Ocean Conservationist. As the editor- in- chief of Scuba Diving and Sport Diver magazines, Patricia has had a 25- year career in dive…Read More