Technical Diver Career Pathway (PADI TecRec) – Khao Lak, Thailand

Delivered by Ed Bosworth (Professional Diver Training) in partnership with Go2Similan Diving, Khao Lak

Technical Diver Career Pathway

If you want to progress beyond recreational limits and become a capable, self-sufficient technical diver, this pathway outlines the progression from your first decompression dives through to advanced trimix training.

Training is delivered by Ed Bosworth in partnership with Go2Similan Diving in Khao Lak, focusing on disciplined gas planning, equipment configuration, and calm decision-making under task load.

Step 1: Equipment Configuration (Optional)

Tec Sidemount is a configuration and skills program that prepares you to manage multiple cylinders, stage/decompression bottles, hose routing, and team procedures using a sidemount setup.

Important: Tec Sidemount is not the same as the Tec Deep program. It is a configuration pathway that can be used while completing Tec 40, Tec 45, and Tec 50. Tec Deep can be completed using either backmount twinsets or sidemount.

Technical Diver Career Pathway

Step 1: Equipment Configuration (Optional)

Tec Sidemount is a configuration and skills program that prepares you to manage multiple cylinders, stage/decompression bottles, hose routing, and team procedures using a sidemount setup.

Step 2: Build Your Technical Foundation

Tec 40 introduces limited decompression diving, technical equipment procedures, and foundational team skills.

Tec 45 expands depth limits and decompression obligations while developing stronger emergency management and gas-switching procedures.

Tec 50 prepares you to become an independent technical diver, refining multi-gas planning, stage cylinder handling, and decompression management.

Fast-Track Option: Tec Deep Program

The Tec Deep program combines Tec 40, Tec 45 and Tec 50 into a streamlined training pathway for divers who want to progress efficiently to full technical certification.

This integrated approach provides consistent coaching, equipment configuration development, and progressive skill building across all three levels.

Step 3: Trimix & Advanced Technical Diving

Tec Trimix 65 introduces helium-based gas planning and deeper technical diving strategies, helping manage narcosis and gas density while refining decompression procedures.

Tec Trimix 90 develops the planning discipline and operational control required for very deep technical dives under strict training standards.

Why Train in Khao Lak?

Khao Lak offers excellent technical training conditions, including access to deeper reefs and wreck diving in the Andaman Sea, supported by professional logistics and experienced dive operations.

Not Sure Where to Start?

If you are unsure which level is right for you, contact us with your certifications, dive experience, and goals. We will recommend the safest and most efficient pathway, including whether backmount or sidemount is best for your progression.

If you want a complete technical certification in one integrated program, start with Tec Deep. If you already hold technical certifications and want to go deeper, you may be ready for Tec Trimix training.