Why WOFT Exists

• Director, and Founder of WOFT: Where Our Families Train
• WOFT is a world-class center for Real-Life Scenario, Safety and Instruction. Located just west of Orlando, Florida.
• Philip formed WOFT in 2015 after many years of private training. Being a concealed carry permit holder since 1998, the more he learned about firearms and studied safety concepts, the more he realized how much he did not know. One can never have enough credentials, and he’s been on the journey to teach safety concepts while becoming his family’s ultimate protector.
• Force Science Institute Certified (Analyst, Methods of Instruction, and Realistic De-Escalation Instructor)
• 1st Civilian Master SHOCKNIFE Instructor – Setcan ©
• Owner of WOFT Protection Services LLC – Private Security Training School
• Private Security Officer Instructor
• Private Security Officer State of Florida
• Statewide Firearm License State of Florida
• Private Investigator State of Florida
• Owner of WOFT Charities, 501c3
• Occasional USPSA / IPSC / Steel Challenge attendee
• Former Suarez International Affiliate
• SIG SAUER ACADEMY – Pistol Mounted Optics Instructor and P320 Armorer
• Director of Training – ICU Investigative & Protective Services
• Handgun Combat Master #22, Front Sight Firearms Training Institute
• USCCA, NRA Instructor
• 24+ years of firearm experience
• NRA LE Firearms Instructor – Handgun
• NRA Private Security Firearm Instructor – Handgun
• FCP – Florida Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design Practitioner
• Class “K” Firearms Instructor License

Courtney Woliver serves as Chief Operating Officer of WOFT, bringing over a decade of experience in operations, administration, and training-based environments.

Since joining WOFT in 2021, Courtney has been responsible for building and managing the systems that allow WOFT to operate at a high level — while also shaping the experience students feel from the moment they arrive. In addition to overseeing bookkeeping, internal processes, and day-to-day operations, she focuses on the details that turn training into a memorable, all-inclusive experience.

Courtney is deeply involved in creating the atmosphere that defines WOFT. From the flow of the day to the small, intentional touches in décor, setup, and presentation, she ensures every element supports comfort, confidence, and professionalism. Her goal is for students to feel cared for, prepared, and fully immersed — so they can focus on learning and growth without distraction.

Prior to WOFT, Courtney held administrative and managerial roles within training and contractor-based organizations, where she managed office operations, financial reporting, accounts payable and receivable, and month-end closings. This background allows her to seamlessly blend structure with hospitality, ensuring both operational excellence and an exceptional student experience.

At WOFT, Courtney’s role sits at the intersection of systems and service — ensuring the organization runs efficiently while every student feels welcomed, supported, and valued.

Brent Buss brings over three decades of real-world operational, instructional, and leadership experience to WOFT, shaping training programs that go far beyond the range and into real-life readiness.

Brent’s background spans Naval Special Warfare, U.S. intelligence operations, and high-threat protective services, where his work focused on planning, executing, and leading security operations in both domestic and international environments. His career includes service as a Special Operations Vessel Commander and Chief Engineer with Naval Special Warfare, deployments supporting Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, and years operating alongside U.S. and foreign partners in complex threat environments.

Following his military service, Brent continued his work in protection and instruction as a CIA Protective Operations Officer, Director of Training for overseas protective forces, and lead instructor for U.S. government and diplomatic protection programs. He has trained personnel responsible for safeguarding government officials, critical infrastructure, and civilian populations — often in high-risk, rapidly evolving situations.

Brent’s training philosophy is grounded in reality. He believes effective self-defense and firearms instruction must account for stress, decision-making, environmental awareness, and human behavior, not just technical skill. His certifications and continuing education reflect this mindset, spanning advanced firearms instruction, force protection, protective operations, mass-attack response, intelligence and threat analysis, and emergency medical response.

At WOFT, Brent oversees curriculum development, instructor standards, and scenario design to ensure every course reflects the same principles he relied on throughout his career: preparation, accountability, and adaptability. His goal is simple — to give individuals and families the confidence that comes from training that is honest, responsible, and built for the real world.

Al brings over 40 years of experience in security and intelligence and more than 20 years in law enforcement to the WOFT team, including nine years in Criminal Investigation Division (CID) assignments.

A retired Special Forces Warrant Officer, Al’s career spans military special operations, domestic law enforcement, and overseas government contracting. His background includes service as a Narcotics Agent and SWAT Officer in North Carolina, a government contractor in the Middle East, and a Special Deputy U.S. Marshal in Florida. He currently serves as a government contractor supporting the Department of Defense and Department of Justice, as well as a Reserve Deputy Sheriff in the state of Florida.

Al’s depth of experience allows him to bring real-world perspective to every training environment — emphasizing decision-making, threat recognition, and responsible use of force. His instruction is grounded in decades of operational experience and an understanding of both legal and practical considerations.

Al is a certified instructor through the USCCA, NRA, and the Florida Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission (CJTSC).

Ben brings over decades of hands-on training in multiple martial arts and defensive tactics disciplines to the WOFT team. His background spans traditional martial arts, modern combatives, edged-weapon integration, and real-world self-defense systems, giving him a well-rounded and practical approach to personal protection.

Ben’s training includes extensive experience in Tae Kwon Do (Black Belt and Instructor), Filipino Martial Arts such as FCS Kali, Tacosa Serrada Eskrima, and Pikiti Tirsia, as well as Krav Maga Street Defense, Urban Tactical systems, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. His instruction emphasizes adaptability, pressure testing, and the responsible use of force in realistic environments — including the integration of defensive tools when appropriate.

In addition to his martial arts background, Ben is trained in active-threat response, close-quarters defense, and medical readiness, ensuring students gain skills that are applicable beyond controlled training environments.

Ben is a certified instructor with the USCCA and NRA, an ALICE Active Shooter Response Instructor, and holds current CPR and First Aid certifications.

As a mother of three, lover of the outdoors, country girl, and lifelong music enthusiast, she brings passion and purpose to everything she does. Her journey into self-defense and personal safety training began through deeply personal experiences, including surviving domestic violence, which ignited a desire for change and empowerment.

Training at WOFT became a turning point—providing not just skills, but a complete shift in mindset. Here, you don’t simply learn techniques; you rewire how you see the world, build confidence, and reclaim peace of mind. That transformation inspired her to join WOFT and become an active part of its mission to make safety accessible to everyone.

Today, she serves as WOFT’s Director of Community Engagement and Strategic Marketing, where she focuses on building meaningful partnerships, raising awareness, and helping others discover the same confidence and empowerment she found through training. She is deeply committed to women’s and family safety, domestic and sexual violence advocacy, and personal empowerment.

Her belief is simple and powerful: with the right training, anyone can live with confidence and strength. Through community, education, and action, she is dedicated to helping create a safer future—for families and for generations to come.

Buck Lawler is a USPSA Grand Master and the Owner of Strapt Academy, having devoted thousands of hours to developing elite-level firearms skill. He has trained a wide range of students—from new gun owners and competition shooters to law enforcement SWAT teams and military personnel—with a strong emphasis on practical, real-world performance.

Over the past several years, Buck has pursued a disciplined path of mastery through extensive competition in USPSA local and Major matches, along with training under some of the firearm’s industry’s most respected instructors, including Donovan Moore (Point 1 Tactics), Eric Grauffel (CZ Academy), Joe Farewell (Farewell Firearms), and JJ Racaza (JJ Racaza Training). This combination of high-level competition and elite instruction has shaped both his technical proficiency and teaching methodology.

Certifications & Specializations:

• SIG SAUER Academy – Pistol Mounted Optics Instructor

• USCCA Certified Instructor

• Advanced Concealed Carry Firearms

• Home Defense

• AR-15

• Shocknife Instructor – SETCAN Certified

Danny has been involved in martial arts for most of his life and continues to train daily, maintaining a strong foundation in discipline, consistency, and skill development. His approach to instruction emphasizes fundamentals, adaptability, and continuous improvement.

Danny holds a 1st Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo and is a Purple Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, training through Elementum under Professor Tarsis Paula Neto. His background in both striking and grappling allows him to help students understand movement, balance, and control across a variety of defensive situations.

In addition to his martial arts experience, Danny is a certified USCCA instructor, qualified to teach Advanced Concealed Carry Firearms, Home Defense, and AR-15 courses. His instruction focuses on responsible firearm use, practical application, and building confidence through repetition and sound fundamentals.

At WOFT, Danny brings a steady, disciplined presence to the training environment, supporting students as they build both skill and confidence in a safe, structured setting.

Dave brings a diverse operational background to the WOFT team, with experience spanning military aviation, weapons instruction, rescue operations, and technical systems.

He served eight years in the United States Marine Corps as a Huey and Cobra Crew Chief, weapons trainer, and squadron rescue instructor. During his service, Dave deployed in support of Operation Desert Storm and operations in Somalia, gaining firsthand experience in high-risk, time-critical environments. He is also a certified commercial helicopter pilot, further reinforcing his aviation and operational expertise.

Beyond military service, Dave holds certifications as a Scuba Rescue Diver and Rappel Rescue Technician, and serves as a Weapons Tactics and Scenario Instructor. His training emphasizes problem-solving, situational awareness, and effective decision-making under pressure.

Dave is CPR and First Aid certified and currently works as an engineer with Universal Studios, bringing a unique blend of technical precision and operational experience to the training environment.

At WOFT, Dave supports scenario-based instruction by helping students understand movement, coordination, and safety in complex, real-world situations.

Dianna Muller is a professional competitive shooter, law enforcement veteran, and nationally recognized advocate for responsible firearms ownership and Second Amendment education.

Dianna earned a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and Psychology from the University of Central Missouri and retired from the Tulsa Police Department after 22 years of service in 2014. During her law enforcement career, her assignments included Patrol, Street Crimes, Narcotics, and Gangs, giving her extensive real-world experience in both enforcement and decision-making under pressure.

Introduced to competitive shooting in high school through USPSA pistol competition, Dianna later found her passion in 3-Gun, drawn to the discipline because it mirrored the platforms she relied on professionally. In 2009, she committed fully to competitive shooting — turning a lifelong interest into a second career focused on performance, discipline, and community.

Dianna is a two-time USPSA Ladies Open National Champion, 2015 NRA World Ladies Champion, and a multiple-time IPSC World Championship medalist, including two individual silver medals and team gold medals at the IPSC World Shotgun Championships (2015 Italy, 2018 France). She has also represented the United States in Pan-American Shotgun competitions and earned individual and team silver medals at the IPSC PCC World Championship (2025 Czech Republic).

Beyond competition, Dianna is deeply committed to education and advocacy. She is the Founder of DC Project (Women for Gun Rights), a non-partisan, educational initiative that brings women from across the country to Washington, D.C. each year to engage legislators on behalf of the Second Amendment and responsible gun owners. Alongside her husband Ryan, she also co-founded Ambassador Academy, an immersive training program designed to develop effective, informed ambassadors within the firearms community.

Dianna is NRA and CLEET-certified and is passionate about empowering individuals through training, competition, and education. At WOFT, she brings a unique blend of elite performance, real-world law enforcement experience, and leadership in firearms advocacy.

Optional condensed version (team grid)

Dianna Muller is a professional competitive shooter, retired Tulsa Police Officer, and nationally recognized Second Amendment advocate. A multi-time national champion and IPSC World Championship medalist, she is the founder of DC Project (Women for Gun Rights) and co-founder of Ambassador Academy. Dianna brings elite performance experience and real-world perspective to WOFT training.

Co-Owner, Bobby Dixon’s Kickboxing Academy

A 3rd-degree black belt in Taekwondo under legendary world-champion kickboxer and sport karate fighter Bobby Dixon. Holds a Brown Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Paul Rodriguez (American Top Team Orlando) and is Level 2 certified in FCS Kali under Guro Ben Z and Tuhon Ray Dionaldo.

An NRA-certified instructor in Pistol, Rifle, and Shotgun, with extensive experience in both striking and weapons-based systems.

A former two-time Florida State Muay Thai Middleweight Champion, compiling a 7–1 professional record with 3 KOs, and an undefeated 3–0 record in Sport MMA.

Outside the gym, an avid bow hunter and outdoorsman, bringing a practical, real-world mindset to training.

Jason Santos brings a diverse background in military medicine, operational leadership, and hands-on instruction to the WOFT team. A U.S. Army veteran, Jason served as an Army Medical Specialist during the War on Terror, providing field medical care, triage, emergency treatment, and medical readiness training in both combat and base hospital environments across the United States and overseas.

At WOFT, Jason serves as a Defensive Tactics Assistant Instructor, working with adults, teens, and children to develop skills in situational awareness, safety strategies, medical response, and hand-to-hand defense. He reinforces a safety-first mindset, disciplined execution, and readiness in all training scenarios.

Outside of WOFT, Jason is an accomplished operations and sales leader, with extensive experience supporting multi-unit, high-volume environments and building long-term relationships through consultative leadership. His career includes leadership roles in hospitality, financial services, and B2B operations, where he has been recognized nationally for elite performance, training excellence, and customer satisfaction.

Jason is bilingual in English and Spanish and holds Stop the Bleed certification, allowing him to support WOFT’s mission of empowering families with life-saving skills that translate across real-world environments.

Founder, U.S. Navy Marksmanship Team (Action Component) Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy Nurse Corps

Lieutenant Commander Jeremy Lightner is the Founder of the U.S. Navy Marksmanship Team (Action Component) and an active-duty Navy Emergency Nurse Corps Officer with a lifelong dedication to firearms mastery and instruction. His firearms journey accelerated while stationed in Texas (2005–2011), where mentorship from highly experienced shooters introduced him to Tactical Carbine and 3-Gun competition, rapidly advancing his skill set.

Jeremy currently trains military units, law enforcement, and civilian shooters in action shooting disciplines, blending competitive excellence with real-world application. His background uniquely combines operational military service, medical leadership under pressure, and elite competitive shooting, allowing him to deliver instruction that is both technically precise and performance-driven.

A nationally and internationally accomplished competitor, Jeremy has earned championships across 3-Gun, PCC, Tactical Operations, and Shotgun disciplines, consistently performing at the highest levels of the sport.

Selected Competitive Achievements:

• 2025 Florida State 3-Gun Champion – Tactical Ops

• 2025 Winter War 3-Gun Champion – Tactical Ops

• 2025 Falling Steel World Series PCC Champion

• 2024 Florida State USPSA Champion – PCC

• 2019 Pro-Am PCC National Champion

• 2022 IPSC Shotgun World Championship (Thailand) – Top 20, Standard Division

• 2018 3-Gun Nation Southeast Regional Champion – PCC

• Multiple State, Sectional, and Major Match Championships (2013–2025)

Jeremy’s instruction philosophy emphasizes efficiency, accountability, and transferable skill, ensuring students are not just faster on the clock—but more capable when performance truly matters.

Founder & Lead Instructor, Conflict Defense

John Duza has over 35 years of experience training both public and private sector organizations in Conflict Defense, a system he developed that specializes in Conflict Intervention and real-world self-defense across multiple industries. His work focuses on practical, pressure-tested solutions, and he has conceived numerous advanced principles and techniques designed to address real-world violent encounters.

John has been widely featured across national and international media, including WGN Chicago Live, Planet X TV, KUSI News, KGTV 10, NBC7, and FOX 6 News. He was also an invited instructor at the prestigious “Gathering of the Masters” and “Gathering of the Eagles” Martial Arts Masters Expos, presenting alongside world-renowned martial artists for three consecutive years.

Beyond instruction, John has contributed to innovation in both entertainment and performance science. He assisted in the development of Sony PlayStation’s “Fight Club” martial arts video game, wearing motion-capture equipment and portraying multiple fighting styles. He also collaborated with Blue Sky Scientific to collect biometric data for the development of combat sports striking sensors, helping advance training analytics for end users.

John has worked extensively with military personnel (including Special Forces), law enforcement, security companies, and corporate wellness programs such as SAIC. His community outreach includes teaching women’s self-defense programs at San Diego State University, partnering with facilities that support women victims, leading after-school youth programs, and working closely with the SAY San Diego Foundation for Kids. Most recently, he has partnered with the Guardian Angels – San Diego Chapter to provide real-world self-defense training focused on civilian protection.

His expertise and viral self-defense content have been covered globally by outlets such as The Kuwait Times, SAYS Malaysia, DailyMail UK, DailyDot, MSN, The Blaze Media, TwistedSifter, and others. A short documentary on John’s life was also featured at the Asian Film Festival, where it was well received by audiences.

John trains and teaches a wide range of disciplines, including Boxing, Muay Thai Kickboxing, Kali/Escrima (Stick & Knife), MMA, Chin Na Grappling, Jiu-Jitsu, Shaolin Kempo Karate, Wing Chun, and Street-Based Self-Defense. He is also versed in numerous martial arts weapons systems and multiple firearm platforms, bringing a comprehensive and adaptable approach to personal protection training.

At WOFT, she serves as both an Instructor and Role Player, bringing real-world experience, adaptability, and professionalism to every training environment.

She is an Army Veteran, Executive Protection Agent, and Chief Operating Officer of Recon Black Security, holding Florida Class D and Class G licenses, along with additional credentials in multiple states. Her background blends protective operations, firearms instruction, and leadership within the private security sector.

An NRA-certified Instructor in Rifle, Pistol, and Concealed Carry, as well as a Range Safety Officer (RSO), she is committed to safe, effective, and accountable firearms training. She also supports Marketing and Sales for Alpha Recon, combining operational expertise with strategic communication.

Beyond professional roles, she is a mother, mental health advocate, and competitive shooter, participating in both the Patriot Games and Tactical Games. Her mindset is grounded in continual growth—always learning, evolving, and improving—a philosophy she brings to every student interaction.

At WOFT, we believe your training experience should be captured and shared. Kevin Starkey is an independent documentary filmmaker, content creator, and photographer who has been a trusted member of the WOFT team for over 10 years, documenting training events and capturing the moments that matter most.

Kevin’s professional portfolio includes work with hospitals, schools, restaurants, and small businesses, bringing a documentary-style approach that highlights authenticity and emotion. His passion for filmmaking began in junior high school, where he gravitated toward working behind the camera rather than being on stage—recording performances and learning the art of visual storytelling.

A lifelong interest in aviation led Kevin to the RC airplane hobby at age 16, where he first attempted to put a camera in the sky. That childhood vision became reality years later as drone technology emerged. Rediscovering the RC hobby as an adult, Kevin began building drones in the early stages of the industry, achieving the bird’s-eye perspective he once imagined.

Through commercial and documentary filmmaking, Kevin has traveled the world doing what he loves—telling stories through compelling visuals. At WOFT events, his focus is simple: capturing your experience so you can relive it and share it with friends and family.

Kim was raised around firearms for most of her life and is a strong advocate for gun safety, personal responsibility, and being your own first responder. Prior to joining the WOFT family, she spent several years in the firearms trade show industry as an Event Manager, where she focused on promoting safe firearm handling and responsible ownership.

At WOFT, Kim is a vital member of the operations team, overseeing day-to-day activities on property and ensuring every detail of the student experience runs smoothly. She plays a key role in delivering the first-class experience WOFT students expect, while also supporting instructors by making sure they have everything needed to provide the highest level of training.

Certifications & Credentials:

• USCCA Certified Firearms Instructor (2020)

• CPR Certified

• SIG SAUER Academy – P320 Armorer

Outside of WOFT, Kimberly also serves as Manager/Administrator at Toppino Eyecare, a family-owned business, bringing strong organizational leadership and operational expertise to everything she does.

Krystal Dunn is a competitive shooter, firearms instructor, media personality, and brand ambassador with over 10 years of experience in the shooting sports industry. She has competed nationally and internationally in USPSA pistol competition, as well as multi-gun and precision rifle, earning multiple Class and High Lady wins across several states. Her work centers on helping new shooters—especially women and families—develop confidence, skill, and self-reliance through firearms education.

Raised in a military and airline family, Krystal grew up around firearms and shooting sports, spending countless hours at the range with her family. After being introduced to competitive shooting, she quickly expanded into USPSA, shotgun, rifle, and precision disciplines, building a well-rounded skill set that informs both her competition and instruction.

In addition to competition, Krystal has become a trusted voice in firearms media and marketing, hosting and interviewing at product launches, conferences, range days, and national events. She has worked closely with leading industry brands and organizations to create educational and instructional content, while also advocating for Second Amendment rights and responsible firearms ownership.

Recognizing her role as a mentor within the community, Krystal began assisting with one-on-one and small group firearms training, which has since expanded into larger class offerings for both women and men. She balances her time between small business ownership, competition, media work, and instruction—always focused on helping others start and continue their journey into shooting sports and self-defense.

“My mission in this industry is to preserve the Second Amendment by helping people get involved in shooting sports, hunting, self-defense, and recreational shooting within a strong family culture.”

Certifications & Credentials:

• USPSA Certified Range Officer

• USCCA Certified Instructor – Concealed Carry & Handgun Fundamentals, Defensive Pistol

• NRA Carry Guard Certified Instructor

• Turning Point USA Ambassador

Krystal has been featured in major industry publications and media outlets, including Hook & Barrel Magazine, Small Arms Review, FrontSight Magazine, BluePress, national television, and numerous podcasts. She has also served as a Guest Instructor at WOFT Orlando, bringing an approachable, professional, and empowering teaching style to the range.

Mary is a law enforcement professional, trainer, and violent crime survivor whose life’s work centers on empowering others with life-saving skills, situational awareness, and verbal de-escalation. She currently serves as a Naugatuck Police Officer (#346) and is a SIMUNITION Reality-Based Training Instructor, bringing real-world experience directly into scenario-based training environments.

Mary holds multiple emergency and response certifications, including EMR (National Registry), Adult & Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED, Stop the Bleed, and Certified Emergency Dispatcher (Police, Fire, and Medical). She is also ASIST-certified as a Mental Health Crisis Aide, with a strong focus on mental health, sobriety, and resilience—particularly within the military veteran community.

After surviving a violent home attack in 2019, Mary deepened her commitment to the principle of being “Your Own First Responder”—not only for yourself, but for the family and community who depend on you. This lived experience shapes her teaching philosophy and fuels her passion for helping others prepare for the unexpected.

Beyond instruction, Mary is the Connecticut State Director for Women for Gun Rights, a featured writer for Armed Lifestyle Magazine, and Co-Founder & Operations Manager of Paravant Group Firearms Training. She also supports marketing and consulting through LoMag Marketing and Consulting, combining operational experience with strategic communication.

Mary joined the WOFT team in 2022 after attending Dianna Muller’s Ambassador Academy. At WOFT, she assists with marketing, photography, and scenario-based training, helping deliver realistic, impactful learning experiences.

She has worked alongside leaders such as Dianna Muller (The DC Project) and Holly Sullivan (Connecticut Citizens Defense League) and has been featured across numerous podcasts and media outlets, advocating for responsible self-defense, mental health awareness, and women’s empowerment.

Above all, Mary is a mother of two and a proud member of A Girl & A Gun, bringing empathy, strength, and real-world perspective to every role she serves.

Melanie brings over a decade of medical experience to the WOFT team, with a background as a Surgical Technologist in Level I trauma hospitals, ambulatory surgical centers, and as a private assistant to a maxillofacial surgeon. She later transitioned into working alongside a specialized occupational therapist, assisting in both clinical and natural environments. This diverse medical experience fuels her passion for helping others gain the confidence to become their own first responder.

She is CPR, First Aid, and Stop the Bleed certified, ensuring students receive instruction grounded in real-world emergency response and trauma awareness.

Melanie also has over a decade of martial arts experience as a lifelong practitioner across multiple disciplines, including:

• Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu / Gracie Combatives

• Danzan Ryu Jujitsu

• Muay Thai

• FCS Kali under Guro Ben Z and Tuhon Ray Dionaldo

In addition to her medical and martial arts background, Melanie is a USCCA Range Safety Officer (RSO) and a certified firearms instructor, teaching:

• Advanced Concealed Carry Firearms

• Home Defense

• AR-15

• SIG SAUER Pistol Mounted Optics

• SIG SAUER P320 Armorer

Melanie is also licensed in both unarmed and armed security and is actively pursuing a career in Executive Protection. She continues to advance her skills through professional training, including Select International’s Protective Detail Specialist and Residential Security Operations courses, demonstrating her commitment to continual growth and excellence in personal protection.

Michael is a 25-year retired Sergeant of the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service, where he served for over 20 years as a Primary Instructor and Coach in Firearms, Defense Tactics, Street Survival, Urban and Rural Operations. During his tenure at the Police Academy, he was responsible for Training the Trainers, In-Service Officers, Administrative Officers, and elite units including Special Task Forces, Special Response Units, and the Organized Crime and Counter Narcotics Unit, where he served as Chief Instructor.

He received advanced instructor training in Jungle Operations and Survival from the Special Forces (SF) and Special Operations Group (SOG) of the Trinidad & Tobago Military, earning the call sign “MasterChief.” Michael has taught at numerous IALEFI Accredited Training Conferences (ATCs) and has served as a guest law enforcement instructor nationally and internationally, training thousands of students across military, law enforcement, security, and civilian sectors.

Michael later served for many years as a Defense Contractor in the Middle East with DynCorp International, LLC, where he received the DynCorp Star Award, along with multiple commendations for Leadership and Training Excellence from senior U.S., international, and Afghan officials.

His overseas assignments included:

• Qatar (Doha) – Force Protection Lead Guard/Trainer for U.S. Army Camp As Sayliyah and US CENTCOM/CMPC Compound

• Afghanistan –

  • Protective Security Detail (PSD) Team Lead & Medic

  • Base Defense Site Security Manager/Trainer (SSM)

  • ISAF/SOF Subject Matter Expert for the Afghan General Department of Police Special Unit (GDPSU)

  • Instructor/Coach for U.S. Team Sub Zero training the Afghan Public Protection Force (APPF)

Subjects actively taught include Close Quarters Battle (CQB), Advanced Tactical Firearms, Traffic Stops and Rapid Vehicle Takedowns, Vehicle Bomb Searches, Counter-IED (C-IED), Combat Physical Training and Mental Fitness, Convoy Operations, Small Unit Tactics, Surveillance and Intelligence Gathering, Arrest and Control, Defense Tactics, Weapon Retention, and Baton Techniques.

Michael has over 50 years of experience in multiple martial arts disciplines, with national and international recognition, and has trained thousands of students worldwide.

Selected Training & Certifications:

• Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) – Firearms Instructor (FITP & SAPP 409), Valedictorian

• U.S. Law Enforcement Officers Training School / FBI – Kidnapping Investigations, Hostage Negotiations, Crisis Management & Terrorism

• U.S. Government Joint Training Center – Hostage Negotiations & Terrorism

• ISAF (Afghanistan) – Counter-Improvised Explosive Devices

• ICITAP – Law Enforcement Master Instructor

• NRA & SIGARMS Academy – Law Enforcement Handgun & Shotgun Instructor; Civilian CCW, Pistol & Rifle Instructor

• Force Science Institute – Law Enforcement De-escalation Instructor

• Global Counter Terrorism Institute / Security Solutions International – Terrorism Studies

• Pan American Health Organization / World Health Organization – Law Enforcement Forensic Psychiatry

Michael brings a rare combination of global operational experience, elite instructor development, and decades of real-world application to WOFT, delivering instruction rooted in accountability, adaptability, and performance under pressure.

Prior to joining the WOFT team, Mike spent over 30 years as a professional electrician, bringing a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and reliability to everything he does. Throughout his life, he has maintained a deep passion for firearms, spending time with his family learning safe firearm handling and enjoying recreational shooting.

At WOFT, Mike serves as the Property Manager and Armorer, ensuring the facility, equipment, and firearms systems are maintained to the highest standards. His role is critical to keeping training days running smoothly and safely for both students and instructors.

Mike is certified through:

• SIG SAUER Academy – Pistol Mounted Optics Instructor

• SIG SAUER Academy – P320 Armorer

• USCCA Certified Instructor

He also instructs in:

• Advanced Concealed Carry Firearms

• Home Defense

• AR-15

Mike’s combination of technical skill, safety-focused mindset, and lifelong passion for shooting makes him a trusted and dependable member of the WOFT team.

Nate is a USMC veteran, emergency readiness consultant, and senior instructor with over 20 years of experience leading mission-critical operations across defense, healthcare, and emergency-response systems. He holds a Ph.D. in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and is a Board-Certified Doctor of Manual Osteopathy (BCDMO), bringing a rare blend of operational leadership and medical expertise to scenario-based training.

Nate is the Founder and Principal of 5417 Readiness Group, where he designs and manages comprehensive readiness programs for schools, churches, and private organizations, guiding them through assessment, planning, documentation, and implementation. His work emphasizes clear roles, disciplined decision-making, and repeatable systems that function.

As a subcontracted instructor with WOFT, Nate delivers scenario-based threat avoidance and tactical medical training, integrating direct and indirect threat care, communication, leadership, and stress management. His instruction draws from real-world operational constraints and focuses on helping students make sound decisions when time, information, and resources are limited.

Prior to his civilian work, Nate served in the United States Marine Corps in Logistics and Combat Service Support, managing deployment and accountability of hundreds of millions of dollars in equipment across international movements. He received three Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals for leadership and management of complex operations.

Certifications & Credentials:

• ACS Stop the Bleed® Instructor

• TECC Provider (NAEMT)

• TCCC (Deployed Medicine)

• Board Certified Doctor of Manual Osteopathy (BCDMO)

• FEMA ICS/NIMS (IS-100, 200, 700, 800)

• USMC Veteran

Nate’s approach at WOFT is rooted in clarity, accountability, and real-world applicability, ensuring students don’t just learn skills—but understand how to apply them effectively under pressure.

Rebecca Santos is a child safety advocate, independent investigative journalist, and assistant scenario-based safety trainer dedicated to equipping families, educators, and communities with the tools to prevent and respond to abuse, exploitation, grooming, and trafficking. Her work combines trauma-informed advocacy, evidence-based training, and real-world application to help people make sound decisions under stress.

Rebecca holds nationally approved Child Sexual Abuse Prevention certification through Protect My Ministry, meeting Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) requirements for youth camps and programs for minors. This credential allows her to deliver compliant, prevention-focused education nationwide.

She is also trained in Scenario Dirt Medicine (TECC-aligned) through 5417 Readiness Group in conjunction with WOFT, covering direct vs. indirect threat casualty care, hemorrhage control, airway basics, hypothermia prevention, casualty movement, evacuation preparation, and scene safety—skills critical to real-world emergency response.

Professionally, Rebecca serves in leadership roles spanning ministry expansion, communications strategy, and investigative journalism, including:

• Founder, TheBoldAdvocate – producing investigative reporting and survivor-focused educational content

• Manager of Ministry Expansion, Truth78 – leading partnerships, strategy, and curriculum growth

• Former Communications Director, Evangelical Council for Abuse Prevention – building national messaging and speaking at conferences

At WOFT, Rebecca supports scenario-based training, education, and community outreach with a focus on child safety, prevention, and empowered response. Her approach emphasizes clarity, confidence, and preparation—helping families recognize risk early and act decisively when it matters most.

Rob is a New Jersey Police Officer with over 16 years of experience dedicated to learning and teaching effective self-defense and combative systems designed to address modern-day threats. His instruction is rooted in real-world application and informed by continuous study of evolving violence trends.

Rob’s curriculum has been taught to law enforcement, civilians, and members of the U.S. Armed Forces preparing for deployment to high-risk areas around the world. A lifelong student, he continually refines his training to stay ahead of the adaptability and resourcefulness of modern predators.

His training journey has taken him across the United States and internationally, learning from some of the most elite warriors within the U.S. and Israeli military communities. From addressing common street-level violence to preparing elite operators, Rob’s instruction emphasizes practical skills, situational awareness, and survivability.

Credentials & Experience:

• New Jersey Police Officer

• 16+ years studying and teaching combatives and self-defense

• Dom Raso Blade Instructor

Rob brings a disciplined, evolving, and threat-focused approach to training at WOFT—ensuring students receive instruction grounded in reality, not theory.

Robert is a long-range precision rifle professional who has spent over 15 years dedicated to mastering the art and science of precision shooting. He competes across multiple disciplines, including Precision Rifle Series (PRS), NRL Hunter, AG Cup, Extreme Long Range (ELR), Benchrest, and other non-sanctioned long-range competitions.

Robert is a current member of Team G.A. Precision and has competed at the highest levels of the sport, including:

• 2018 King of 2 Miles Competitor – widely regarded as the most challenging precision rifle event in the world

• 2019 King of 2 Miles – Runner-Up

He has achieved podium finishes across multiple long-range disciplines, a rare accomplishment that reflects both technical mastery and adaptability. His competitive experience is supported by partnerships with leading manufacturers in the precision shooting industry, including Manners Stocks, Bushnell Optics, Hornady, Hodgdon Powders, RCBS, Bartlein Barrels, Badger Ordnance, TriggerTech, Champion, and Armageddon Gear.

Robert’s pursuit of competition excellence is driven by a larger purpose: to become as knowledgeable, capable, and adaptable as possible in any long-range precision scenario. He is passionate about sharing that experience with others and takes pride in helping new and experienced shooters start down the right path with sound fundamentals, efficient systems, and real-world application.

Steve Friend is a former state and federal law enforcement officer with 14 years of service. He began his career in Savannah, Georgia, working as a patrolman and narcotics agent before joining the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

During his time with the FBI, Steve investigated violent crimes and major offenses on Indian Reservations in northeast Nebraska and served as a certified FBI SWAT operator and grenadier. He later transferred to Florida, where he worked high-profile cases involving child exploitation and human trafficking before being reassigned to investigate domestic terrorism.

Steve’s background brings a deep understanding of real-world threats, operational decision-making, and high-risk environments, providing WOFT students with instruction informed by firsthand experience at every level of law enforcement.

Stephen “Twitch” Smith is an experienced Tactical Medicine Instructor with a strong law enforcement background and specialized expertise in trauma care for high-risk, austere, and operational environments. An EMT-educated professional, Stephen has trained thousands of students domestically and internationally, delivering evidence-based medical instruction grounded in Stop the Bleed and MARCH-E principles.

Stephen is the President and Lead Instructor of Save One More Life, where he focuses on equipping civilians, law enforcement, and military personnel with life-saving medical skills that can be applied under stress. Previously, he served as a Lead Instructor with Refuge Medical/Training, conducting scenario-based instruction in hemorrhage control, airway management, patient movement, and care under fire across diverse operational environments.

In addition to his instructional career, Stephen served as a sworn law enforcement officer with the Roanoke City Police Department, responding to violent incidents, mass casualty events, and medical emergencies. He was frequently the first-arriving medical responder, providing immediate life-saving care prior to EMS arrival and bridging care during dynamic, high-threat situations.

Stephen’s teaching style emphasizes real-world application, stress inoculation, and accountability, ensuring students can perform critical medical interventions when seconds matter most.

Certifications & Credentials:

• EMT-B

• Registered Stop the Bleed Instructor

• ALERRT Instructor

  • Civilian Response to Active Shooter

  • Exterior Response to Active Shooter

  • Integrated Response to Active Shooter

• CPR / BLS

• Law Enforcement Training & Firearms Safety

• Armed & Unarmed Security

Stephen brings a calm, disciplined, and operationally proven approach to WOFT—helping students build confidence and competence in life-saving medical response under pressure.

With over 12 years of experience in celebrity protection, high-risk personal security, and hostile terminations and takeovers, this instructor brings extensive real-world operational expertise to the WOFT team. His background includes high-intensity uniformed security work, private police operations within the Vickery Meadows Improvement District, disaster response, and search and rescue, operating across diverse and demanding environments.

He specializes in compound security and high-threat personal protection, with the past 11 years dedicated to leading, organizing, and instructing personal security teams. His leadership experience spans Fortune 500 companies, high-net-worth individuals, and a wide range of protective assignments, emphasizing preparation, adaptability, and decisive action under pressure.

Credentials & Certifications:

• Texas Level III (Commissioned) & Level IV (Personal Protection Officer) License

• Texas Licensed Level III Security Instructor (Classroom & Firearms)

• Texas Licensed LTC Instructor

• American Heart Association CPR / First Aid / AED Instructor (with ability to add American Red Cross Instructor)

• USCCA Nationally Certified Instructor in:

  • Concealed Carry & Home Defense Fundamentals

  • Countering the Mass Shooter Threat

  • Emergency First Aid Fundamentals

  • Women’s Handgun & Self-Defense Fundamentals

• TCCC Combat Lifesaver Certified

At WOFT, his instruction focuses on real-world protective strategy, threat recognition, and decisive response, delivering practical skills that translate directly to personal, family, and professional security.

Yates is a National Personal Safety Trainer and subject matter expert on the lawful use of force for the everyday citizen, with over a decade of experience empowering individuals and communities to manage risk and avoid victimization.

“My purpose is to empower individuals and communities with the skills necessary to manage risk and avoid victimization, by providing practical strategies for safety, security, and crisis response.”

Yates is a highly adaptable firearms instructor, capable of working with both new and seasoned shooters across multiple platforms and disciplines. In addition to lethal-force training, he is deeply committed to providing non-lethal use-of-force solutions, ensuring students understand appropriate response options across the full spectrum of personal defense.

Beyond instruction, Yates manages a nationwide network of nearly 50 instructors outside of WOFT, maintaining consistent standards, curriculum development, and instructor mentorship.

Certifications & Credentials:

• Concealed Coalition – Master Certified Trainer

• ALERRT Active Shooter Instructor (Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training)

• Firearms Instructor – Pistol, Rifle, Shotgun & Subgun

• Low-Light Instructor

• Defense Spray Instructor – Civilian & Law Enforcement Certified

• SIMUNITION Safety Certified

• STOP THE BLEED Certified

• Heckler & Koch Armorer

• NRA Certified Instructor

• Certified Range Safety Officer (RSO) – NRA & USCCA

Yates brings a balanced, legally grounded, and real-world approach to personal safety training at WOFT—equipping students with practical skills, sound judgment, and confidence under pressure.