Take a closer look.

Meet Your Instructors

Chad Hertzell

Co-Owner + Firearms Instructor

Chad Hertzell has over 30 years of experience in military, law enforcement, and firearms training. He served as an Infantryman and Expert Infantry Badge Instructor in the 82nd Airborne Division and California National Guard before spending 27 years with the California Highway Patrol (CHP).

During his time with CHP, Chad was an Active Shooter Instructor for law enforcement and a certified EMT, providing critical incident training and emergency response instruction.

A graduate of Front Sight Institute, Chad is a USCCA, DOJ, and NRA-certified firearms instructor, specializing in CCW training, home defense, and active shooter response.

✔ Expert Infantry Badge Instructor (U.S. Army)
✔ CHP Officer – 27 Years
✔ Active Shooter & Defensive Tactics Instructor
✔ Certified Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
✔ USCCA, DOJ & NRA Certified CCW Instructor
✔ NRA Certified Law Enforcement Handgun Instructor
✔ NRA Certified Handgun & Personal Protection Instructor
✔ NRA Certified Range Safety Officer

🔥 Specialties: Active shooter response, CCW training, personal defense

Mindy Hertzell

Co-Owner + Firearms Instructor

Mindy Hertzell is a highly skilled firearms instructor and co-owner of The CSA, bringing both a medical and civilian perspective to firearms training. A Registered Nurse for over 10 years, Mindy understands the importance of preparedness, situational awareness, and responsible firearm ownership.

A graduate of Front Sight Institute, she is a DOJ, USCCA, and NRA-certified instructor, specializing in concealed carry, home defense, and firearm safety. She is passionate about empowering women and new shooters, providing a welcoming, practical approach to self-defense training.

✔ Registered Nurse – Over 10 Years
✔ Front Sight Institute Graduate
✔ DOJ Certified CCW Instructor
✔ USCCA Certified CCW & Firearms Instructor
✔ NRA Certified Pistol Instructor
✔ NRA Certified Personal Protection (Inside & Outside the Home)
✔ NRA Certified CCW Instructor
✔ NRA Certified Range Safety Officer

🔥 Specialties: CCW training, home defense, firearms safety, women's self-defense

Mark Jeter

Firearms Instructor

Mark Jeter brings 30 years of law enforcement experience from the DEA and California Department of Fish and Wildlife, specializing in firearms, defensive tactics, and use-of-force training.

As a certified Range Master and Weaponless Defense Instructor, he trains students in pistol, shotgun, AR-10 rifle tactics, as well as non-lethal self-defense techniques like Taser and pepper spray.

Mark is a USCCA and DOJ-certified CCW instructor, providing expert training in concealed carry, tactical defense, and personal protection strategies.

✔ Certified Range Master
✔ Pistol, Shotgun & AR-10 Rifle Instructor
✔ Weaponless Defense & Use-of-Force Instructor
✔ Pepper Spray & Taser Instructor
✔ USCCA & DOJ Certified CCW Instructor

🔥 Specialties: CCW training, defensive tactics, non-lethal self-defense

At Confidence Safety Academy, we are committed to your success. We are passionate about providing you with an excellent education that includes training and practical resources. We believe you will find confidence in handling firearms when you are provided with the appropriate skills and mindset. With flexible program options, personalized classes, and experienced instructors, we’re sure you’ll be satisfied with your education at Confidence Safety Academy. See you soon!