Richard Johnston
A Pillar in the World of Commercial Diving
Richard Johnston stands as a testament to dedication and innovation in the commercial diving industry. His journey, marked by significant achievements and contributions, paints the picture of a man deeply rooted in the fabric of diving.
A Legacy of Diving
Richard Johnston stands as a testament to dedication and innovation in the commercial diving industry. His journey, marked by significant achievements and contributions, paints the picture of a man deeply rooted in the fabric of diving. “I am a third-generation diver,” Richard recalls, echoing the legacy that has profoundly shaped his career path. This legacy, combined with his personal accolades and relentless pursuit of industry advancement, underscores a career dedicated to not just participating in but actively enhancing the diving community.
A Storied Career
After serving with distinction as a combat photographer in the Air Force, where his excellence was recognized through multiple awards, Richard’s professional trajectory took him underwater. He graduated from The Ocean Corporation in 1990 and embarked on a career that saw him engaging with leading companies like McDermott, Global Divers, and Cal Dive. His work spanned various critical projects, from pipeline installations to subsea manifold installations, displaying his versatility and skill. “Working as a diver for these projects allowed me to contribute to the industry in a hands-on way,” Richard notes, reflecting on his diverse experience.
Contribution Through Knowledge
Richard’s commitment to giving back to the diving community is palpable. As an instructor at The Ocean Corporation, he views his role as a conduit for sharing knowledge and experiences with the next generation of divers. “Becoming an instructor is one of my biggest accomplishments,” he asserts, underlining his passion for education and mentorship. His teaching philosophy is simple yet profound: “My goal is that when students leave, I would trust them to be my tender.” This philosophy drives him to exceed students’ expectations, preparing them not just for the job but for the responsibility it entails.
A Voice in the Community
Richard’s contributions extend beyond the classroom. He has been published multiple times in ADCI’s Underwater Magazine, sharing insights and innovations with the wider diving community. His presentations at Underwater Intervention further highlight his commitment to advancing the industry’s knowledge base. “I always had an interest in improving the diving industry,” Richard says, highlighting his motivation to contribute to the field’s growth and safety through improved equipment and training practices.
Overcoming and Innovating
Richard Johnston’s journey through the world of commercial diving encountered a formidable challenge: a serious diving injury that threatened to prematurely conclude his professional pursuits. Yet, in the face of adversity, his resilience and unwavering spirit shone brightly. Reflecting on this critical juncture, Richard reveals, “The accident ended my career, but it eventually led me back to teaching.” This period of trial became a transformative phase, steering his path towards a noble cause—education and innovation within the diving community.
Determined to turn his personal setback into an opportunity for collective advancement, Richard embarked on a mission to redefine safety and efficiency standards in commercial diving. His endeavors in developing new diving equipment and pioneering rescue techniques transcend mere technical achievements. They embody a profound commitment to safeguarding fellow divers and enhancing operational practices. Through these innovations, Richard not only overcame the challenges posed by his injury but also established himself as a beacon of progress, dedicated to elevating the entire field of commercial diving.
Legacy and Looking Forward
Richard Johnston’s legacy is not merely in the depths he has explored, but in the knowledge and innovations he has shared with the diving world. His articles, awards, and presentations are a testament to his dedication to the industry. As commercial diving continues to evolve, Richard’s contributions remain a beacon of excellence and innovation, inspiring current and future generations of divers to pursue their passion with dedication and always strive to “get in the club” of respected professionals in this challenging field.