Executive Protection Institute

Dr. Richard W. Kobetz started the Executive Protection Institute to transform what was once just "bodyguard work" into a legitimate, credentialed profession. He worked with the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) to develop the training standards, then co-authored "Target Terrorism: Providing Protective Services." By 1994, Virginia based its state training standards on EPI's approach—and the institute has been exceeding those standards ever since.

The flagship course that changed the industry. Over 100 hours of instruction covering threat assessment, advance planning, accident prevention, medical emergencies, deliberate attacks, and protective response. This is the course that qualifies you for Virginia DCJS credentialing as an Armed Personal Protection Specialist.

The Protectors Pistol Course (PPC) focuses on precision shooting first—one-hole groups—then adds speed. Unlike standard defensive pistol courses, this is built specifically for protecting others, not just yourself. Covers Virginia certifications 07E (handgun), 09E (advanced), and 08E (shotgun).

Developed with subject matter expert Alan Baker, this system teaches practical response measures for situations unique to the protection industry. Three-day module covering realistic threat response.

Offered through EPI's Protection Driving Division since 2017. Training for bodyguards, chauffeurs, and personal protection specialists. Instructors bring years of actual security driver experience.

Realistic, practical response systems designed for the actual challenges protection professionals face. Developed in collaboration with multiple subject matter specialists.

EPI offers advanced training in: - Technology and OSINT - Behavioral analysis - The business of security - Physical security - Executive protection for law enforcement

EPI will develop and deliver customized programs for your specific needs, anywhere you need them—domestic or international.

All faculty are acknowledged authorities in their specialties and active practitioners. Key leadership:

• •Jerry Heying, Executive Director - Over 40 years in protective services, worked in 50+ countries. President of the Academy of Security Educators and Trainers, founding board member of the International Protective Security Board, sits on the ASIS Executive Protection Council.
• •Faculty includes Sheriff Tony Roper, Dr. Hector R. Torres, and 23 other subject matter experts with real field experience.

Note: There's no national executive protection credential. Each state sets its own requirements. Virginia and Texas are the only states requiring additional credentialing beyond basic private security licensing.

Martinsburg, WV is the current training location for scheduled courses: - Providing Executive Protection 7-Day Program: May 17-23, 2026 - Protection Response Tactics Modules 1-6: May 23-25, 2026 - Protectors Pistol Course: May 26-29, 2026

EPI also conducts the 7-day program twice a year in Winchester, VA, and offers custom programs at your location worldwide.

Their students protect: - World leaders and royalty - High-net-worth families - Corporate executives - Celebrities and politicians - Government security teams - Corporate security operations

• •Affiliated with International Protection Group, Nine Lives Associates, International Protective Services Board
• •ASIS Preferred CPE Provider (continuing education credits)
• •Over 40 years of operation with continuously updated curriculum
• •Faculty members are major contributors to protection industry literature
• •Train internationally—courses conducted abroad regularly

• •Contact: (212) 268-4555 | New York headquarters with regional office in Winchester, VA