Matt grew up in Southern California, 60 miles from the ocean. He spent many happy childhood hours at sea in small boats with his Dad, discovering a love of all things oceanic. While fishing from a 14' motor whaler at age nine, he encountered a White Shark as long as the boat; this stimulated a lifelong fascination with these beautiful animals.
First certified in 1983, Matt dove the waters of Southern California recreationally for many years. He became a PADI Pro in June, 2010, and has since advanced to Master Scuba Diver Trainer. He enjoyed working as a Divemaster and Instructor in the Inland Empire from December 2010 until March, 2013.
Hawaiʻi laid claim to him during a family vacation on Kauaʻi in March, 2000. The dream of relocating to Hawaiʻi, born then, came true in March, 2013, when he moved to Oʻahu, immediately connecting with Island Divers Hawaiʻi, where he's blessed to have the privilege of educating divers and introducing people to our awesome underwater world.