Bearco Training was founded in 2009 by Barret Kendrick to provide realistic and effective defensive training tailored to personal safety and active shooter response. With a mission to empower individuals with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to protect themselves and others, Bearco Training offers comprehensive courses in personal defense, force-on-force scenarios, state certifications, and instructor development. Barret is also the founder of Defender School, which specializes in preparing educational institutions, houses of worship, and businesses for active assailant events through online and in-person training.
Barret Kendrick, founder and lead instructor, has over 15 years of professional teaching experience in firearms and use-of-force training, earning recognition both regionally and nationally. As a certified Advanced Force Science Specialist and Force Science Analyst, Barret integrates cutting-edge research on human performance, decision-making, stress response, and memory into his training programs, ensuring students receive instruction grounded in real-world application.
Barret’s experience includes serving as a Staff Instructor with I.C.E. Training, a Master Instructor for the USCCA Defensive Shooting Fundamentals program, and a Master Instructor for Taser Conducted Energy Weapons. He was also an on-screen instructor for First Person Defender and co-hosted the Personal Defense Network Training Talk Show, sharing insights on personal defense and training methodologies. Barret is also a program graduate of the Law of Self Defense Instructor Program, equipping him with advanced knowledge of the legal principles surrounding self-defense incidents. His expertise has been featured in numerous local and national media segments on personal defense and firearms safety.
In addition to training, Barret provides expert witness consulting for attorneys on use-of-force incidents, firearms safety, negligent discharges, and training standards. Drawing from his extensive teaching experience and advanced certifications, he delivers unbiased analysis and insights into the complexities of these issues, offering clear and accurate perspectives to attorneys, courts, and other fact-finders.
A dedicated advocate for responsible gun ownership, Barret has played a key role in shaping firearm legislation in Louisiana as an elected board member of the Louisiana Shooting Association. His contributions include drafting, co-writing, and testifying on bills related to firearms, concealed carry, and use-of-force laws.
Bearco Training stands out for its commitment to safety, integrity, and excellence. From defensive shooting and range safety to advanced force-on-force scenarios, Bearco Training equips individuals with the skills to handle high-stress situations effectively and responsibly. Whether you’re seeking to enhance your personal safety, develop as an instructor, or gain expert insights on firearms-related matters, Bearco Training is here to help you achieve your goals.