Drew Moldenhauer
Owner/Master Instructor
Drew Moldenhauer is the visionary force behind Blue Ethos Specialized Training, where he serves as the Owner and Master Instructor. With a mission to empower his clients through comprehensive training, Drew has cultivated a platform that emphasizes technical skills and the critical importance of situational awareness and community engagement.
An International Speaker and Conference Leader
Drew is a respected international speaker renowned for his engaging presentations at numerous prestigious conferences. His expertise spans many pertinent topics, including active shooter response, use of force, and situational awareness. His presentations are known for their insightful blend of practical experience and academic rigor, making them valuable for professionals at all levels.
Veteran Law Enforcement Officer with 17+ Years of Service
With over 17 years of dedicated service in law enforcement, Drew has built a distinguished career across two police organizations in Minnesota. He is licensed police officer with the City of Osseo Police Department. His roles have been diverse and impactful, including:
- Active Shooter Instructor: Drew has developed and delivered training programs designed to prepare officers for the most critical and high-stakes situations.
- Use of Force Instructor: He provides essential instruction on the appropriate application of force, ensuring that officers can effectively protect themselves and the public while adhering to legal and ethical standards.
- Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Instructor: Drew specializes in equipping officers with the skills to manage mental health crises with empathy and efficacy.
- Field Training Officer: He mentors new recruits, sharing his extensive knowledge and fostering the next generation of law enforcement professionals.
Academic Excellence and Teaching Endeavors
Drew’s commitment to public safety and education is underscored by his academic achievements. He holds a Master’s Degree of Science in Public Safety Executive Leadership from St. Cloud State University. His dedication to lifelong learning and teaching is evident in his roles as an Adjunct Professor at several esteemed institutions, including Hamline University, Concordia University St. Paul, Metropolitan State University, Normandale Community College, and Hennepin Technical College. Recently, he completed a year of full-time teaching at Bemidji State University, where he further honed his educational techniques and curriculum development skills.
At these institutions, Drew teaches a range of subjects, from law enforcement fundamentals to advanced tactical and strategic concepts. He is also actively involved in police academy training, where he shapes the foundational skills of aspiring officers.
Author and Contributor to Law Enforcement Literature
In addition to his teaching and speaking engagements, Drew is a published author. He recently co-authored his first book, How Smart Police Officers Use Situational Awareness to Improve Safety, with Dr. Richard Gasaway. This work offers critical insights into how officers can enhance their safety and operational effectiveness through keen situational awareness.
Drew’s expertise is also recognized in the digital realm; his articles on law enforcement practices and insights have been featured on prominent platforms such as Police1 and Officer.com. These contributions reflect his ongoing commitment to advancing the profession and sharing knowledge with a broader audience.
A Legacy of Leadership and Innovation
Drew Moldenhauer stands out as a leader in law enforcement training and education. His blend of practical law enforcement experience, academic prowess, and dedication to teaching and community safety sets him apart as a pivotal figure in the field. Whether through his instructional roles, speaking engagements, or written contributions, Drew continues to shape and inspire the future of public safety and law enforcement.
Rich Webb
Owner/Master Instructor
Rich is the founder and driving force behind Blue Ethos Specialized Training. His company provides comprehensive training to both public and private entities
With 17 years of dedicated service in law enforcement, Rich has amassed a wealth of experience and expertise that spans leadership, tactical response, and training. His approach to law enforcement is deeply rooted in common sense and research-based knowledge, making him a respected figure in both his department and the broader community.
Law Enforcement Career and Leadership
Rich serves as a Police Sergeant in a metropolitan police department in Minnesota, where his leadership and operational skills are put to daily use. Over the years, he has held several pivotal roles, including:
- Active Shooter Instructor: Rich has developed and delivered critical training programs aimed at preparing law enforcement officers to effectively respond to active threat situations. His classes extend beyond the police force, providing essential knowledge to schools, churches, and commercial industries on how to safeguard their environments.
- Field Training Officer: In this role, Rich has been instrumental in shaping the careers of new officers. His guidance and mentorship ensure that recruits not only meet but exceed the rigorous standards expected of law enforcement professionals.
- Mobile Field Force Operator: As an operator in the department’s Mobile Field Force, Rich has been involved in managing large-scale public order situations, applying strategic and tactical responses to maintain safety and security.
- Crisis Hostage Negotiator: Rich is a certified negotiator, trained to handle some of the most delicate and high-stakes scenarios. His expertise in crisis negotiation reflects his ability to remain calm under pressure and find peaceful resolutions in volatile situations.
Currently, Rich oversees the department’s entire field training program, a critical component that shapes the future of law enforcement within his community. He also leads the department’s Mobile Field Force and Use of Force Programs, ensuring that officers are well-prepared to handle a wide range of operational challenges with professionalism and precision.
Heroism and Public Education
In 2014, Rich faced one of the most harrowing experiences of his career. He and his partner were involved in a shooting incident on the steps of a daycare facility. Their courageous actions during this incident were recognized with the prestigious Minnesota Chiefs of Police Medal of Honor. This event profoundly influenced Rich, inspiring him to educate the public and his fellow officers about the complex realities of officer-involved shootings. His firsthand account and insights into such critical events provide invaluable lessons on courage, decision-making, and the emotional aftermath of using lethal force.
Commitment to Professional Development and Training
Rich’s passion for training is evident in his leadership of his department’s Field Training Program. Under his guidance, the program has become a cornerstone of the department, consistently producing officers who are not only skilled and capable but also compassionate and community-focused. Rich’s dedication to training goes beyond his own department. He continually seeks opportunities to share his knowledge and skills with a broader audience, believing that well-trained officers and civilians are integral to a safer society.
A Legacy of Excellence and Community Service
Rich’s career is a testament to his commitment to excellence in law enforcement and his dedication to serving and protecting his community. Whether on the front lines as a sergeant, guiding new recruits through their initial training, or educating the public and private sectors through Blue Ethos, Rich embodies the highest standards of professionalism and integrity. His experiences and leadership continue to shape the future of law enforcement and community safety, making a profound impact on those he serves and trains.
Robert Pullar
Active Threat Instructor
As a Police Officer with a metro Minnesota Police Department, Robert is a trained and certified Active Threat instructor, Firearms instructor and member of a metro SWAT team. Robert has conducted training for Police Departments and private entities. Robert has trained under Drew and Rich to become a BEST instructor. Robert has a passion for teaching and educating others on the importance of self-protection and surviving critical incidents such as an active threat. Robert has taught multiple active threat classes and enjoys helping others mentally prepare to survive an active threat at work or in a public place. Robert understands the importance of being able to return home at the end of the day and will work hard to give you the knowledge and skills so you can.
James Bagne
Active Threat Instructor
James began his law enforcement career in 2013 and has served as a Patrol Officer, Investigator and currently a Patrol Sergeant for a metro Police Department.
As a Certified Firearms Instructor and Active Shooter Instructor, James trains and prepares police officers for deadly force encounters. James has successfully completed Crisis Intervention Training (CIT) and frequently uses de-escalation techniques on the streets. James has prior work experience in retail, distribution, and manufacturing industries.
As a BEST Instructor, James has trained citizens including educators and healthcare professionals how to prepare for and survive an active threat incident. James combines real-life law enforcement experiences with active threat training for an interesting and easy to understand experience for his students.
Tyler Decker
Tactical EMS Instructor
Tyler who is a trained Paramedic comes with a wealth of knowledge and experience in tactical emergency medicine. Tyler has served as a High Threat Protective Security Specialists/Tactical Paramedic in Afghanistan providing protective security and advanced medical/tactical support for dignitaries in high threat environments. Tyler has also served as a Texas Police Officer and K9 handler. Tyler’s training certifications include: SWAT/Tactical Medicine, PHTLS, ACLS, PALS, NREMT instructor and CIT Crisis Intervention. Tyler has a passion for teaching and helping give the public and Officers tools to survive and save those around us.
Ashton Erickson
Use of Force/Defensive Tactics
With eight years of law enforcement experience, Ashton brings a Jiu-Jitsu style of Use of Force program. This works on using leverage and technique to control suspects. Ashton is currently rank of Blue Belt who trains under Mark Mortensen at Tracks Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Ashton is a current law enforcement officer with a metro police department and is a Use of Force Instructor, Field Training Officer and member of the Mobile Field Force.
Jacob Carpenter
Active Threat Instructor
Jacob Carpenter, based in Zimmerman, MN, is a seasoned professional dedicated to public safety, law enforcement, and security. With a career rooted in strong personal values of integrity, leadership, and a commitment to helping others, Jacob consistently demonstrates an unwavering commitment to community service and public welfare. His journey began with a solid academic foundation in law enforcement from Mankato State University and Alexandria Technical & Community College, further enriched by rigorous training at the Military Police Academy in Fort Leonard Wood, MO.
Jacob’s career is marked by a rich tapestry of roles across various sectors, each contributing to his robust skill set and deep understanding of safety and security dynamics. His service as a Military Police Officer with the US Marine Corps laid the groundwork for his expertise in law enforcement, where he served in high-stress environments such as Kabul during Operation Enduring Freedom and Trebil in Operation Iraqi Freedom. These deployments honed his ability to maintain composure and execute decisive actions under pressure.
Transitioning to civilian roles, Jacob served as a Sheriff’s Deputy for the Sherburne County Sheriff’s Office for seven years. Here, he not only enforced laws and maintained public order but also played pivotal roles in emergency response teams, drug task forces, and wellness initiatives. His dedication to continuous improvement and professional development saw him certified as a Basic Pistol/Firearms and Defensive Tactics Instructor, equipping him to train and lead others in critical security protocols.
Jacob’s professional repertoire extends beyond law enforcement into diverse roles, including his tenure as a Security and Fraud Officer at The Bank of Elk River, where he safeguarded assets and implemented fraud prevention strategies. His role as a Project Consultant with Northface Construction further underscores his adaptability and expertise in managing safety protocols within construction environments.
Throughout his career, Jacob has shown an exceptional ability to communicate and engage with diverse populations, building strong relationships within the community. His problem-solving skills, combined with a keen ability to assess and intervene in situations effectively, have consistently resulted in positive outcomes. Jacob’s role as an AVID Tutor and Assistant Wrestling Coach at Zimmerman High School highlighted his commitment to youth development and mentorship, fostering discipline and teamwork in young athletes.
Jacob’s accomplishments are further evidenced by numerous certifications and awards, including the prestigious Naval Achievement Medal during Operation Enduring Freedom, and a variety of specialized training in firearms, defensive tactics, and peer support. His proficiency in Microsoft Office and other administrative tools enables him to seamlessly integrate operational and strategic tasks, enhancing organizational efficiency.
Simon Osamoh
Threat Assessment
Simon C. Osamoh is a British American and the founder of Kingswood Security Consulting, a security risk management company specializing in security risk assessment, emergency preparedness and threat assessment. He spent 14 years as a Detective in England focused on covert investigations into organized crime and terrorism. One of his notable cases includes working with the British Security Services during the investigation of the “liquid bomb terrorism plot” against the U.S.A in 2006, which changed aviation security regulations worldwide limiting the use of liquids on planes. Simon is former Head of Counter Terrorism at Mall of America, Minnesota. The largest shopping and entertainment complex in North America where he oversaw counterterrorism and the internationally recognized behavior detection program focused on suspicious behavior. He acted as liaison with several federal agencies that included Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Secret Service (SS) and Homeland Security Protective Services agents. He is former Director of Risk and Compliance having worked for three of America’s largest financial institutions as a senior risk leader that include US Bank, Wells Fargo and Equiniti Trust Company where his teams focused on risk management, business continuity, crisis management disaster recovery, regulatory compliance and working with federal agencies on audits and examinations. Simon is the author of the bestselling books Securing Church Operations and 10 Powerful Strategies to De-escalate Conflict. He serves on the Board of Directors for Fathers for the Fatherless an organization that supports fatherless families.
Hector R. Matascastillo
MSW, LICSW, LSSW
Hector R. Matascastillo, MSW, LICSW, LSSW, was born in Guatemala City, Guatemala and was raised in Chicago, Illinois. When he was 17 he joined the Army and served in multiple countries for various operations over a span of 18 years. After his last deployment to Iraq in 2007 as a First Sergeant of an infantry company, Hector left the military and completed the Masters of Social Work degree program at Augsburg College in 2010. He is an EMDR International Association Approved Consultant and Trainer, EMDR, soon to be National Certified DBT Therapist, as well as practicing with an Adlerian orientation. As a multilingual/multicultural therapist, Hector has worked with the Latino, Veteran, and SPMI populations from the micro to the macro level. He works with men, women, and adolescents in individual, family, and group settings. Hector also has a strong background in training and public speaking with an emphasis on trauma and resiliency, law enforcement CIT training, and other areas. He is currently a Director at Life Development Resources, P.A. as well as President and owner of his own practice. His current hobbies include Triathlons to which he’s completed Ironman Florida 2018. He currently resides in St. Paul with his wife and five sons.