I am certified as an NASDS/SSI diver. Although I can’t speak to any of the politics involved I’ve always felt confident in my training and am actually glad they pushed for me to get a set of gear at the onset of my diving. I’ve dove with both PADI and SSI shops and honestly there seems to be a little extra level of professionalism and safety in the SSI shops and operations. I’m not sure what it is , maybe its just because that’s what I certified under and am familiar with. But, I just feel safer when I’m with an SSI shop on a trip to some remote area.