After more than two decades of leadership, Tom Ingram, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Diving Equipment & Marketing Association (DEMA), has announced that he will retire at the end of 2025. The news, first shared by DiveNewswire, marks a major milestone for the global diving industry as one of its most influential figures steps down.
Ingram has led DEMA for 23 years, overseeing its evolution from a trade show organizer into a full-scale industry association dedicated to research, advocacy, and business support for diving professionals worldwide. “It has been my privilege and honor to be part of DEMA and this industry,” Ingram said. “I have so many to thank for the opportunity to serve, including the DEMA Board of Directors, volunteer leaders, the professional DEMA staff, and, of course, our members.”
Throughout his tenure, Ingram guided the organization through significant challenges, from economic downturns to the COVID-19 pandemic, while maintaining DEMA’s financial stability and its central role in supporting dive businesses.
Board Response and Succession Plans
Dan Orr, Chair of the DEMA Board of Directors, praised Ingram’s impact and vision, describing his leadership as instrumental in uniting manufacturers, training agencies, dive centers, and travel operators under a shared purpose. “Tom has brought a wealth of knowledge and experience to the position that has benefitted both the diving consumer and the industry stakeholders,” Orr said.
The Board has initiated a global search to appoint Ingram’s successor, with a dedicated committee overseeing the transition. Ingram will remain actively involved during the handover period to ensure a smooth leadership change.
A Legacy of Growth and Collaboration
Under Ingram’s guidance, DEMA strengthened its position as a cornerstone of the diving world. The organization expanded its industry research and intelligence programs, enhanced its advocacy role in legislative and environmental issues, and grew the annual DEMA Show into one of the most influential trade events in the sector.
Ingram also focused on uniting the industry’s diverse stakeholders and promoting sustainability and education. His tenure has been widely credited with helping the dive community navigate changing consumer behaviors, travel disruptions, and technological innovation.
The upcoming DEMA Show 2025, scheduled for November 11–14 in Orlando, Florida, will be among Ingram’s final official appearances as President and CEO.
As the dive industry prepares for new leadership, Ingram’s legacy will continue to shape the organization he helped build -one committed to advancing diving worldwide through research, collaboration, and advocacy.
For ongoing updates on DEMA’s leadership transition and insights into the future of the diving industry, follow coverage at The Scuba News.
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