The Range Training Academy

The Range Training Academy operates with instructors who bring decades of real-world experience from law enforcement, military, and tactical operations. This isn't theoretical—these are people who've trained police officers, worked SWAT, and handled hundreds of high-risk operations.

Robert Cardente, Director of Education and Training, is a retired detective with 20+ years in law enforcement, including Special Response Team (SWAT) service and roles in the Major Crimes Unit. He holds FBI Pistol and Shotgun certifications, Glock and Sig Sauer instructor credentials, and FLETC Active Shooter Threat Instructor status. On the civilian side, he's an NRA Training Counselor with 11 instructor certifications and USCCA credentials.

The academy's roster includes:

• •Dennis: Active law enforcement officer with 30+ years in criminal justice, FBI-certified firearms instructor, extensive SWAT and DEA experience
• •Shawn Driscoll: Retired Major from Pawtucket Police Department with 24 years service, FBI certified, SWAT sniper element leader for six years, FLETC Active Shooter Threat Instructor
• •Derek Brodeur: NRA certified in Pistol, Rifle, Shotgun, CCW, and Chief Range Safety Officer; USCCA certified; holds concealed carry permits in RI, CT, NH, UT, and MA
• •Sherry Pratt: NRA certified in Pistol, Rifle, Shotgun, Home Firearm Safety, Chief Range Safety Officer; USCCA certified; Massachusetts Certified Firearms Instructor
• •Robert Shields: 39+ years in emergency medical and rescue, Nationally Registered Paramedic since 1989, Water Team Rescue Coordinator

• •Pistol, rifle, and shotgun fundamentals
• •Concealed carry (CCW) courses
• •Active shooter response and threat assessment
• •Defensive tactics and use of force
• •Personal protection in and outside the home
• •Home firearm safety
• •Advanced defensive handgun
• •Handcuffing and tactical procedures
• •Stop the Bleed and CPR/AED
• •Reloading (metallic and shotgun shell)

560 South County Trail, Exeter, RI 02822 | (401) 443-9223

The instructors here aren't just certified—they've trained police academies, SWAT operators, and security personnel across Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Connecticut.