Matt Schlenker
Founder & Lead Instructor, Proactive Training Academy.
Matt earned his Bachelor’s Degree from Bemidji State University in 2013 while simultaneously serving as a law enforcement officer, demonstrating an early commitment to both education and public service. He brings more than a decade of experience in law enforcement and emergency medical services, having served as both a Police Officer and Emergency Medical Technician (EMT).
Throughout his career, Matt has held a variety of specialized roles, including Patrol Officer, Special Operations Officer, and School Resource Officer (SRO). His extensive field experience has provided him with a well-rounded understanding of public safety, crisis management, and community engagement.
In addition to his operational experience, Matt has served as a certified instructor for law enforcement professionals in several critical disciplines, including Firearms, Use of Force, Active Shooter Response, Field Training, and Less-Lethal Tactics. He has trained officers at various stages of their careers, helping them develop the skills and confidence necessary to perform effectively in high-pressure situations. Matt is Certified through State organizations within these disciplines.
As a School Resource Officer, Matt worked closely with school districts to strengthen campus safety initiatives. He partnered with administrators, teachers, and staff to enhance active shooter response protocols, conduct safety assessments, and deliver realistic training designed to improve preparedness for potential violent incidents.
Driven by a passion for protecting others and empowering communities through education, Matt felt called to bring professional-grade safety training beyond the law enforcement community and into the public sector. This vision led to the creation of Proactive Training Academy, where he now provides practical, experience-based training focused on preparedness, personal safety, and emergency response.
Matt’s mission is to equip individuals, organizations, schools, and businesses with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to respond effectively during critical incidents and make safety a proactive priority.
Certified USCCA Instructor
