Our Instructors’ decades of experience teaching and training in both the armed and unarmed arts allows us to provide a logical system of learning with proven step-by-step curriculum.
Brian Simmons
Brian Simmons is a highly experienced firearms instructor and the driving force behind Urban Defense Academy, dedicated to empowering individuals with truly practical armed self-defense skills.
With over three decades of experience in armed self defense, he operates from a deep understanding that modern firearm proficiency is a crucial evolution of martial art. Brian’s core philosophy centers on ensuring every student establishes a rock-solid foundation of essential skills before progressing, a method he considers the true path to advanced capability for the armed citizen. His training is uncompromisingly realistic and practical, designed for effective self-preservation in the real world, rather than solely mirroring battlefield or law enforcement techniques.
Brian’s foundational training in armed self-defense began with intensive one-on-one mentorship in handgun and rifle craft under Michael Harries, the nationally recognized firearms instructor. Harries, a legendary figure in the field, developed the Harries Flashlight Technique, a method for holding a flashlight and pistol that became widely adopted and taught as a standard by law enforcement agencies across the country. While advancements in firearm-mounted lights have evolved contemporary training, Harries’ foundational contributions to low-light tactics and his personal tutelage laid the groundwork for Brian’s practical, real-world approach to self-defense.
For over six years, Brian was a key member of Southern California Tactical Combat (SCTC) group. Here, he honed his pistol and rifle skills in diverse competition and scenario-based shooting exercises. It was through SCTC that Brian was introduced to and directly mentored by Michael Horne, the renowned designer and match director of Soldier of Fortune’s national “3-Gun” competition. This invaluable collaboration taught Brian how to design realistic self-defense training courses and matches that challenge students to think and react effectively in true-to-life situations. This focus on relevant, mentally engaging scenarios remains a hallmark of Urban Defense Academy’s curriculum.
Following the passing of Michael Harries, Brian further refined his pistol craft at Gunsite Academy, one of the world’s most prestigious shooting schools. After completing the Gunsite 250 Pistol Course, he achieved the rank of Marksman I, training under the renowned late Pat Rogers. Brian is well-grounded in the ‘Modern Technique of the Pistol’ – a system developed by Lt. Col. Jeff Cooper, former Director of API/Gunsite – which forms the robust foundation of Urban Defense Academy’s Practical Pistol program, emphasizing marksmanship, gun handling, and mindset.
In 2004, Brian founded Beyond CCW in Nevada, successfully operating his own firearms training company until 2018. This period solidified his comprehensive teaching approach and practical business acumen. In 2020, Brian and Gigi established Urban Defense Academy in Texas, bringing their combined expertise and unique training philosophy to their current community.
With a holistic view of personal safety, Brian continues his dedicated study and training in both armed and unarmed defense disciplines. His unique background allows him to provide an unparalleled depth of instruction, bridging traditional principles of combat with the demands of modern firearm self-defense for the average, responsible citizen.
Gigi Simmons
Gigi Simmons is an integral leader and skilled instructor at Urban Defense Academy, dedicated to ensuring every student receives a seamless and effective training experience in armed self-defense.
Working alongside Brian, she provides a vital, complementary perspective that fosters a well-rounded and comfortable learning environment for both men and women, ensuring diverse student needs are met.
Her journey in firearm proficiency began in the spring of 2008 with pistol training in Nevada, quickly expanding to include tactical rifle training by 2010, all under the direct guidance of Brian Simmons. Gigi has since maintained a relentless commitment to continuous study and hands-on training, continually deepening her knowledge in the discipline of firearms use for personal protection.
Gigi was introduced to the dynamic world of practical competition shooting through her participation in small matches in California, notably those organized by Michael Horne, the renowned designer and Match Director of Soldier of Fortune’s national “3-Gun” competition. From 2011 to 2018, Gigi served as Operations Coordinator for Beyond CCW in Nevada, where her expertise was vital in organizing all training courses and events, including their annual 4th of July tactical shooting match. In 2020, Gigi and Brian established Urban Defense Academy in Texas, bringing their combined expertise and unique training philosophy to their current community.
Today, Gigi remains actively involved on the range, instructing students and serving as a dedicated Range Officer for Urban Defense Academy. Her commitment to the shooting sports also sees her participating as one of the many dedicated Range Officers at the annual Texas 3-Gun Championship Match. Serving as range officer at a Major Match, regular continued practice and participation in Run-N-Gun biathlon events help keep her skills sharp and current.
Beyond her instructional role, Gigi orchestrates all operational activities for Urban Defense Academy, ensuring a smooth and positive client experience from inquiry to completion. She meticulously oversees all administrative functions, providing the essential backbone that allows the academy’s high-quality training to thrive.
