About Zach

I am a dedicated defense training instructor with a passion for empowering individuals of all skill levels to build confidence, strength, and practical self-defense skills. With a focus on both technique and mindset, I create a supportive learning environment where beginners can establish strong fundamentals and experienced students can refine their abilities. My approach blends real-world application with personalized instruction, ensuring that every student progresses at their own pace while developing the skills needed to stay safe and feel confident in any situation. Whether you’re new to defense training or looking to sharpen your techniques, I’m here to help you reach your goals.

Certifications

With over five years of experience as a defense training instructor, I am committed to providing high-quality, personalized instruction to students of all skill levels. My approach focuses on building confidence, competency, and critical decision-making skills in a safe, supportive learning environment. I tailor my training to each student’s needs, ensuring they receive personalized feedback and hands-on experience to develop real-world defensive skills.

As a licensed firearms instructor, I hold numerous certifications, including:

  • North Carolina Justice Academy Laws Governing Deadly Force Licensed Instructor (Concealed Handgun Permit Instructor)
  • NRA Certified Instructor (Basic Pistol, Range Safety Officer)
  • Apache Solutions LLC Pistol and Lead Shotgun Instructor
  • Rangemaster Firearms Instructor (Basic, Advanced, Master, and Professional Pistolcraft, Shotgun, and Advanced Shotgun Instructor – trained under Tom Givens)
  • Modern Samurai Project Firearms Instructor (Endorsed by Scott Jedlinski)
  • Tim Herron Shooting Firearms Instructor Training
  • Vigr Training Firearms Instructor Training (Phil Groff)
  • Church Security Instructor
  • OC/Pepper Spray Instructor

In addition to firearms training, I emphasize medical preparedness, ensuring my students understand lifesaving skills in emergency situations. My medical certifications include TECC, TCCC, Gunshot Wound First Aid, Stop the Bleed, CPR/BLS/AED, Wilderness First Aid Responder, and more.

Philosophy

My philosophy is simple: every student deserves a learning environment that is safe, adaptive, and focused on their growth. Whether you are a first-time shooter or an experienced practitioner, my goal is to help you develop the mindset, skills, and confidence to protect yourself and those around you—while also having fun in the process. Learning defense skills should be engaging, challenging, and rewarding, and I strive to create an atmosphere where students enjoy the journey as much as the results.

Train with purpose. Learn with confidence. Be prepared for anything.