Danny DiCola
Carlsbad,CA
Summary
Passionate Leucadia, CA native with a lifelong dedication to surfing and skateboarding. Overcame various obstacles to pursue the dream of becoming a professional skateboarder. Currently, a devoted father to two amazing daughters, driven to give them the same exceptional childhood I was fortunate to have.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
Work History
Surfboard Shaper
Pure Fun Surfboards & Byzak Custom Longboards
Oceanside, CA
01.2015 - Current
- Under the mentorship of Hall of Fame surfboard shaper, Hank Byzak of Oceanside, CA I was able to learn how to shape high-end surfboards and operate a surfboard business.
- Worked effectively in fast-paced environments with ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Promoted to Social Media Marketing Director and Sales Representative for Byzak Custom Longboards and my own label DiCola Surfboards
Professional Skateboarder
IPATH Footwear, OJ Wheels, Independent Trucks,
San Diego, CA
01.2007 - Current
- Touring the U.S, Canada, Mexico and all over Europe doing skateboarding demos for kids and adults
- Featured in Thrasher magazine, Transworld, The Skateboard Mag, Slap magazine, multiple "Built To Shred" episodes on Feul TV.
- Current professional for Glass House Skateboards, OJ Wheels, Independent trucks, Surfside (shop), KATIN clothing, and VANS (flow)
Graphic Designer (freelance)
NHS
Santa Cruz, CA
01.2015 - 04.2019
- Received a Certificate in Graphic Design at Mira Costa College, followed by freelance work for skate companies such as Emerica Footwear and OJ Wheels.
- Designed visually appealing album covers for various local music groups.
Artist Assistant
Alicia Dunn
Cardiff, CA
01.2016 - 01.2019
- Hired as Artist Assistant for a successful local abstract painter, Alicia Dunn.
- My duties included installing large pieces of art, being a sales representative to have her art shown and sold at local galleries
- Gained entry into the art world, selling personal creations made from recycled skateboard decks.
- Aided in the development of new techniques by collaborating closely with the lead artist on experiments and creative explorations.
- Enhanced the art studio''s efficiency by organizing and maintaining inventory of supplies and materials.
Surf Instructor
Surf Sessions Del Mar
Del Mar, CA
05.2006 - 09.2008
- Enforced strict policies for safety in and out of water.
- Informed guests of good ocean practices and surf etiquette.
- Issued wetsuits and equipment to guests to meet surfing needs.
- Cleaned wetsuits between lessons and inspected for damages.
- Empowered guests and built confidence by training on techniques and praising good performance.
- Led pre-surf stretching routines designed to prevent injuries during lessons or practice sessions effectively.
- Maintained a professional demeanor and appearance, serving as an ambassador for the surf school and its values.
- Provided expert advice on selecting the appropriate surf equipment for clients based on their skill level and personal preferences.
- Conducted group lessons for various skill levels, ensuring all participants received individualized attention and guidance.
Concrete Pumper Owner/Operator
North County Concrete Pumping
Encinitas, CA
01.2003 - 01.2007
- Just after graduating from high school, I took over my fathers concrete pumping business after his passing in 2003
- At 18 years old I was a heavy equipment operator, a hard-working and friendly company owner, responsible for taking care of my family by paying all of the bills and the mortgage on our home
- I operated that company until my my younger sister was able to graduate from high school, then I changed paths to pursue my skateboarding career
Education
Certificate of Graphic Design
Mira Costa College
Oceanside, CA05-2018
High School Diploma -
San Dieguito Academy
Encinitas, CA05.2003
Skills
- Friendly, positive attitude
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Customer service
- Problem-solving
- Calm under pressure
- Problem resolution
Timeline
Artist Assistant
Alicia Dunn
01.2016 - 01.2019
Surfboard Shaper
Pure Fun Surfboards & Byzak Custom Longboards
01.2015 - Current
Graphic Designer (freelance)
NHS
01.2015 - 04.2019
Professional Skateboarder
IPATH Footwear, OJ Wheels, Independent Trucks,
01.2007 - Current
Surf Instructor
Surf Sessions Del Mar
05.2006 - 09.2008
Concrete Pumper Owner/Operator
North County Concrete Pumping
01.2003 - 01.2007
Certificate of Graphic Design
Mira Costa College
High School Diploma -
San Dieguito Academy