JDI Training LLC was formed in 2014 as a partnership between Dawna Ashton and Jonathan Menzies. Both partners came from strong aquatic and health & safety backgrounds.
Dawna, a competitive youth swimmer, lifeguard, and equestrian, came to American Red Cross from a Firefighter / EMT background. Working in Santa Cruz County, California as the Health & Safety director earned her national recognition from American Red Cross. Just before the national Hurricane Katrina response in 2005, she moved to Santa Barbara County where she continued that work. Dawna has been a FEMA and Red Cross instructor for over 25 years.
Jon, with a competitive youth swimmer and open water lifeguard background, came to American Red Cross as an EMT and the key instructor and oversight for the County of Santa Barbara Aquatics coordinator. After college, Jon enjoyed a job in Australia’s Gold Coast area where he earned a Bronze Medallion in lifesaving. Jon’s favorite things are teaching and being in the water.
Jon has been teaching American Red Cross programs for over 15 years, and Dawna has been for over 25 years.