OUR INSTRUCTOR ALLIANCE
"Science based, Performance Proven"
At Black Watch Training, our team is comprised of highly skilled and experienced professionals dedicated to providing top-tier firearms training. With our tagline "Science Driven, Performance Proven," we emphasize a commitment to science-based instruction and measurable results. Led by founder Jack Shepard, whose background spans military service, product design and development, and firearms education, our instructors bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise. We are committed to empowering individuals with the skills and confidence needed for responsible firearm use and self-defense.
Jack Shepard
Jack Shepard is the founder of Black Watch Training and a seasoned professional with deep experience in military operations, product design, and firearms instruction. He served eight years in the U.S. Marine Corps as a Counterintelligence Specialist, where he received advanced training in CI/HUMINT, Close Quarters Combat (CQC), and anti-terrorism/force protection.
Following his military service, Jack spent over a decade in the private sector developing user-driven training gear and educational tools. As a Senior Product Manager at the United States Concealed Carry Association (USCCA), he helped create nationally recognized training programs for responsible gun owners.
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Today, Jack leads Black Watch Training with a focus on delivering high-impact, principle-based instruction grounded in motor learning science and real-world application. His mission is to prepare students not just to perform—but to prevail.
Kristian Gamiao
Kristian Gamiao is a Marine Corps Veteran with over 20 years of experience in avionics, bringing a unique blend of military discipline and technical expertise to the Black Watch Training team. His extensive overseas experience spans across Afghanistan, Europe, Africa, and Southeast Asia.
Kristian’s passion for firearms training and competition drives his commitment to excellence both on and off the range. With a deep appreciation for precision and performance, he combines his military background with a competitive edge, delivering instruction that is both practical and engaging. As an instructor, Kristian emphasizes the importance of foundational skills, continuous improvement, and the mindset necessary for success in any shooting discipline.
Steve Hendricks
​Steve Hendricks brings over 40 years of experience as a firearms Range Master and certified defensive tactics instructor. His distinguished career includes roles as a Sheriff’s Deputy, an instructor and Protective Security Specialist for the U.S. Embassy High Threat Protection Detail in Afghanistan, and the lead instructor for Firearms Instructor Certification with the U.S. Department of Energy. Since 1991, Steve has also been an esteemed adjunct instructor with the prestigious Gunsite Academy. His extensive background and expertise make him an invaluable asset to our training team, ensuring the highest standards of firearms education and defensive tactics.
OUR FRIENDS
