Women to Watch: Dara Carmack of Cannonball Swimming Academy

Dara Carmack built Cannonball Swimming Academy after years of coaching on a local competitive summer swim team. Families began bringing younger children to the team, including children who had never learned to swim. Dara saw that many needed instruction outside a competitive setting.

“Not every child wants to compete in the sport,” she said. “I realized the children could be served better if they were taught outside of a competitive environment.”

She developed a method for teaching swimming and water-safety skills that can be adapted for children and adults. Cannonball Swimming Academy now has a permanent location in Corbin and a seasonal location in Middlesboro.

Dara’s decision to become an entrepreneur was also shaped by her own needs. As an autistic adult, she found that traditional work environments were not always compatible with her abilities. Owning a business gave her the flexibility to create a work setting that fit her strengths.

“Water is my sensory safe place,” Dara said. “My job is encouraging people to face their fear, embrace challenges, and expand their abilities.”

The academy has served more than 715 clients and provided more than 10,500 lessons. In summer 2026, Cannonball employed nine instructors, its largest seasonal staff to date.

Dara points to her team as one of the accomplishments she values most. Several coaches are former competitive swimmers she coached earlier in their lives. Their experience in the academy includes teaching, customer service, communication, and problem-solving.

Cannonball also works to make swim instruction available to more families. Dara helped build the Let’s Goh Swimming Fund, which supports certified swim lessons for economically disadvantaged adults and children, including those who may also live with cognitive or physical disabilities.

“I was the child that couldn’t afford swim lessons,” she said. “Being able to reach children in the same situation I was in through this fund has been an honor.”

The business is listed as a resource provider for individuals with special needs through the Kentucky Autism Training Center. It is also an approved provider for Let’s Goh Swimming Fund scholarships and became a member of the United States Swim School Association in fall 2025.

For Dara, the Women’s Business Center of Kentucky has provided business education and a network of experienced professionals.

“The Women’s Business Center has been a lighthouse for me and the growth of my skills as a business owner,” she said.

Her advice to women who are considering a business idea is direct: “Being ready is a myth. When you have the dream, take action. With the right coach and teammates you can accomplish anything.”

Learn more about Cannonball Swimming Academy at cannonballacademy.com. Follow Cannonball Swimming Academy on Facebook and @cannonballswimmingacademy on Instagram.