With over 38 years of experience in the fitness and wellness industry, Steve J. Dodd is deeply passionate about health, fitness, and helping others unlock their full potential. As the owner of Nautilus Connection and The Diet Doc Weight Loss, Steve has dedicated his career to providing personalized training and nutrition guidance that empowers individuals to transform their bodies and lives. His expertise has been shaped by formal education, hands-on experience, and a deep commitment to continually expanding his knowledge.

Steve’s journey into the fitness industry began under unexpected circumstances. After a life-changing car accident at 17, he was thrown through the windshield, across the interstate, and onto the median. The responding ambulance broke down on the way to the scene. A second unit was dispatched but caught on fire. Without another ambulance available in the town of Fairmont, rescuers from West Virginia University Hospital in Morgantown raced to Steve. The doctors at WVU Hospital were uniquely equipped to diagnose internal bleeding quickly and saved his life. If Steve had been taken to the local hospital in Fairmont, the destination of the first two disabled ambulances, he was told he would not have survived. Steve stayed in the hospital for thirty days and was treated for a concussion, fractured skull, four cracked vertebrae, a severely crushed right knee, severed left ear, and a laceration to this throat that nearly cut his jugular vein. After knee surgery, Steve gained a lot of weight, and against his doctors' orders, he began exercising in the gym on his own at a local gym.

Steve holds a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Engineering and an Associates of Science in Drafting & Design, which helped him develop a strategic and efficient approach to fitness facility management and equipment design. He also holds certifications such as AFPA Certified Personal Fitness Trainer, Nautilus Certified Training Instructor, and Chris Aceto Nutrition Certification—Chris Aceto being a leading expert in bodybuilding nutrition. Steve’s comprehensive background includes specialized training in Special Populations, focusing on those with heart issues, high blood pressure, and other physical ailments, making him uniquely qualified to tailor fitness plans for individuals with specific health concerns.

Throughout his career, Steve has continually sought out knowledge from the best in the industry. He attended the Joe Weiders Muscle & Fitness Bodybuilding Clinic at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles and the Arnold Schwarzenegger Bodybuilding Clinic in Ohio. He also participated in seminars led by prominent figures such as Tom Deters DC, Fred Hatfield Ph.D., Frank Zane, and Arnold Schwarzenegger, to name a few. These experiences have expanded Steve’s ability to offer comprehensive fitness strategies, training techniques, and nutrition plans tailored to individuals of all levels.

As a passionate entrepreneur, Steve purchased Nautilus Connection in 1987 and transformed it from a small gym into a thriving 40,000 sq. ft. state-of-the-art fitness facility. Within the last 2 years, he has expanded 10,000 sq. ft equipped with Nautilus, Kinesis, largest selection of free weights, and cutting-edge Sorinex training equipment, found in NFL, NBA, UFC, and military training facilities. The facility includes landmines, battle ropes, sleds, and plyometric agility equipment, all designed to help members push their limits. Steve’s deep dedication to improving the lives of his members shines through every aspect of the gym, including the 24/7 Circuit Boxing Room, which features open turf and functional training units, ensuring that every member can train at their convenience and at the highest level.

Steve’s passion extends beyond physical fitness. As a licensed Diet Doc clinician for over 18 years, he offers personalized nutrition and weight loss strategies through The Diet Doc Permanent Weight Loss Center of Fairmont, by coaching Thousands of clients to achieve their health and weight-loss goals with proper training and nutrition uniquely designed for each client.

Whether he’s overseeing daily operations, coaching clients, or continuing to enhance Nautilus Connection, Steve’s commitment to his members is clear: he wants the best for his community. Often seen with his dog, Watts, at his side, Steve is always on the move, high-fiving members and working to improve the facility for those who call Nautilus Connection home. With Steve’s expertise, passion, and dedication, Nautilus Connection remains Fairmont’s premier wellness center, helping members reach their best selves through science-backed training, cutting-edge nutrition, and personalized support. Steve is grateful and blessed for the support of all his members – “we’re family.”