Urban Defense Academy

At Urban Defense Academy, our instructors bring over 30 years of dedicated experience in both armed and unarmed defensive arts. By integrating the mechanical efficiency of traditional martial disciplines with the precision of modern firearms proficiency, we provide a logical, step-by-step system of learning. Our curriculum is designed to provide you with the technical independence and fortitude required for real-world personal protection. Co-Founder | Head Instructor Brian Simmons is the lead instructor and visionary behind the curriculum at Urban Defense Academy. With over three decades of experience in armed self-defense, Brian is dedicated to providing citizens with a rock-solid foundation of essential skills. His approach is rooted in the belief that modern firearm proficiency is a crucial evolution of the defensive arts, requiring a balance of technical precision and a decisive mindset. Brian’s instructional philosophy is built upon two distinct areas of long-term study: Brian’s expertise is defined by a history of professional leadership and high-level collaboration. From 2004 to 2018, he founded and operated Beyond CCW in Nevada, establishing a reputation for practical, no-nonsense training. During his six years with the Southern California Tactical Combat (SCTC) group, he was mentored by Michael Horne, the renowned designer of the Soldier of Fortune 3-Gun Championship competition. This collaboration allowed Brian to master the art of designing realistic, mentally engaging training scenarios that challenge students to think and react effectively in true-to-life situations. At Urban Defense Academy, Brian focuses on the “Practical Citizen”—the individual who requires effective self-preservation tools for the real world. His training is uncompromisingly realistic, stripping away ego and sports-based bravado to focus on the mechanical foundations that lead to advanced capability. His mission is to ensure that every student leaves the academy not just with a

Co-Founder | Head Instructor Brian Simmons is the lead instructor and visionary behind the curriculum at Urban Defense Academy. With over three decades of experience in armed self-defense, Brian is dedicated to providing citizens with a rock-solid foundation of essential skills. His approach is rooted in the belief that modern firearm proficiency is a crucial evolution of the defensive arts, requiring a balance of technical precision and a decisive mindset.

Director of Operations | Range Safety Officer | Instructor Gigi Simmons is the operational backbone and a foundational instructor at Urban Defense Academy. With a professional background in corporate Human Resources, Gigi transitioned her expertise in organizational leadership and people operations to the defensive arts, ensuring that every student’s journey from initial inquiry to the range is seamless, professional, and purpose-driven.

At Urban Defense Academy, Gigi focuses on fostering an environment of empowerment and fortitude. She provides a vital, complementary perspective that ensures the training environment is welcoming, making it accessible and effective for both men and women. Whether she is overseeing range safety, instructing, or managing the academy’s operational growth, her mission is to ensure every client is equipped toBe Ready.