2nd Interview with Mr. Traylor: Real-World Application in Instructor Certification or Paper Dragons?

 

Tacmag Interviewer: Mr. Traylor, thank you for taking the time to speak with us. Let’s dive right in—

when it comes to instructor certification, do you believe that a structured certification process is enough to qualify someone as a legitimate instructor?

Mr. Traylor: Thanks for having me. To answer your question—no, I don’t think certification alone makes someone qualified to teach. A structured certification can ensure that an instructor understands theory, but without real-world application, their ability to prepare students for actual combat or self-defense scenarios is questionable at best.

Tacmag Interviewer: What do you think is missing from most certification programs today?

Mr. Traylor: Experience. Many certifications are based on testing technical knowledge and form, but they fail to evaluate an instructor’s ability to apply those techniques under pressure. Fighting in controlled environments is one thing, but knowing how to adapt, make decisions, and function under real stress is entirely different. An instructor should have real-world experience, whether from professional fighting, military, law enforcement, or extensive pressure-tested training.

Tacmag Interviewer: That’s an interesting point. So, what do you look for when evaluating whether an instructor is truly qualified?

Mr. Traylor: First and foremost, I look at their background—have they been in situations where their training was put to the test? I myself am a state-certified TCLEOSE Law Enforcement Instructor back in 2010 or so and serve on the Fugitive Recovery Task Force. I am also trained and certified in Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training (ALERRT), which is crucial for active threat response situations. These experiences shape how I train others, ensuring they are prepared for real-world challenges. Additionally, we have our own shoot house utilizing Simmunition rounds, airsoft, Shock Knife, Judgmental and Marksmanship Shooting Simulator, just to name a few. These tools provide a level of realism and pressure that most martial arts facilities simply don’t offer. On top of that, I offer instructor certification in reality-based training, ensuring that instructors are properly prepared to teach methods that will work in live, unpredictable situations.

I’ll give you an example. I attended an instructor certification course where other instructors from different systems were in the class, and it was clear they had no clue what they were doing. To make matters worse, the main instructor running the course was offering a Level 2 certification for an additional $80. At that point, my certification wasn’t worth anything. It was just a money grab, not a legitimate test of skill or knowledge. That kind of thing happens far too often in this industry, and it’s exactly why I emphasize real-world application over just obtaining a piece of paper.

Then, I assess an instructor’s ability to transfer knowledge effectively. Someone might be an excellent fighter but a terrible teacher. They need to understand not just how to execute techniques, but how to break them down, adapt them to different students, and ensure those students can apply them in unpredictable situations.

Tacmag Interviewer: Would you say that some certifications create a false sense of confidence for instructors?

Mr. Traylor: Absolutely. Some people get a certification and think they’re ready to teach, but without

having tested themselves in real-world conditions, they may pass on ineffective or even dangerous advice. It’s a major issue in the industry. Students assume their instructors are qualified because they have a piece of paper, but that’s not always the case.

Tacmag Interviewer: How do you believe the industry should change to address this issue?

Mr. Traylor: There needs to be a shift toward performance-based evaluation. Instead of just demonstrating techniques in a controlled setting, instructors should have to prove their ability in live scenarios—whether that’s sparring, scenario-based training, or real-world applications like security or self-defense situations. Also, ongoing education is key. Just because someone earned a certification five years ago doesn’t mean they’re still at the top of their game today.

Tacmag Interviewer: What advice would you give to someone looking for a legitimate instructor?

Mr. Traylor: Do your homework. Ask about their real-world experience, not just their certifications. Watch them teach—are they just regurgitating information, or do they understand how to adapt their lessons to different situations and students? And most importantly, test their methods. If their techniques don’t work under pressure, that’s a red flag.

Tacmag Interviewer: This has been an eye-opening conversation. Any final thoughts?

Mr. Traylor: Just this—martial arts and combatives aren’t about looking good on paper. They’re about survival, efficiency, and effectiveness. If an instructor hasn’t tested their skills in high-stakes situations, they might not be the right person to teach others how to survive. Choose wisely.

Tacmag Interviewer: Thank you, Mr. Traylor. Your insights are invaluable.

Mr. Traylor: My pleasure. Keep your head Low, Your eyes sharp and your aim true.