Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Work Preference
Timeline
Hi, I’m

Ken Bowen

Yuma ,AZ
Ken Bowen

Summary

Dedicated and experienced Firearms Instructor with a proven track record of promoting safety, proficiency, and responsible firearm handling. Seeking a challenging role where I can utilize my expertise in firearms training to educate and empower individuals while fostering a culture of safety and responsibility within the community.

Overview

18
years of professional experience

Work History

Customs and Border Protection Office of Field Operations

Firearms Instructor/Range Safety Officer
08.2020 - Current

Job overview

  • Provided firearms training and qualification for 400+ staff members and others as may be assigned
  • Provide personal instruction to include remedial instruction
  • Develop lesson plans and training sessions for firearms
  • Operates, demonstrates, and provides instruction on a variety of weapons including shotguns, handguns, and patrol rifles
  • Incorporates new and advanced training aids into existing programs as appropriate
  • Conducts inspections of Department-issued weapons, including handguns, shotguns, and patrol rifles, along with authorized personal backup and off-duty weapons
  • Provide maintenance and repairs to department weapons, along with armory and range equipment
  • Order range supplies within budget guidelines and maintain inventory control for same
  • Use computer and applicable software to update and maintain records for staff qualifications, weapons maintenance, and inventory
  • Prepare and disseminate correspondence, memos, and schedules regarding training, qualification, weapons maintenance, and other information as necessary
  • Remain current with new methods of range training and armory operations.

Customs and Border Protection Office of Field Operations

Officer
08.2020 - Current

Job overview

  • Detecting and preventing terrorists and terrorist weapons from entering the U.S
  • Enforcing customs, immigration, and agricultural laws and regulations at U.S
  • Ports of entry and preclearance locations worldwide
  • Preventing illegal trafficking of people, narcotics, and contraband into the U.S
  • Performing inspection, intelligence analysis, examination, and law enforcement activities including apprehension, detention, and arrest relative to arrival and departure of persons, conveyances, and merchandise at ports of entry
  • Conducting developmental level officer duties to protect the U.S
  • Homeland, enforce federal laws, and efficiently facilitate legitimate trade and travel.
  • Developing, planning, and participating in tactical operations
  • Interacting with carriers, other agencies, and foreign entities to exchange information and provide guidance on admissibility/compliance.

United States Marine Corps, USMC

Weapons and Tactics Instructor (WTI)
05.2012 - 09.2020

Job overview

Facilitated team-building exercises among trainees, promoting camaraderie and collaboration as vital components of successful tactical operations.

  • Contributed to th professional development of fellow instructors by participating in ongoing training sessions and sharing best practices ia collaborative environment.
  • Modeled exemplary leadership attributes for students by demonstrating strong discipline, professionalism, and commitment to excellence at all times.
  • Collaborated with other subject matter experts to enhance curriculum relevance within the broader context of military operations or law enforcement activities.
  • Enhanced training effectiveness by incorporating real-world scenarios and hands-on exercises in lesson plans.
  • Provided personalized coaching for individuals requiring additional support, leading to higher success rates among trainees.
  • Increased trainee engagement through the use of multimedia presentations and interactive discussions on relevant topics.
  • Evaluated student performance regularly, offering timely feedback and guidance for improvement throughout the course.
  • Utilized constructive criticism and praise to motivate trainees towards excellence in tactics application.
  • Established clear expectations at the beginning of each course module setting the stage for focused learning outcomes achievement across cohorts of diverse learners/trainees background.
  • Managed classroom logistics effectively, optimizing scheduling, equipment allocation, and facilities usage for maximum efficiency.
  • Conducted regular evaluations of course content and delivery methods, seeking opportunities for improvement based on feedback from students, peers, and supervisors.
  • Maintained safety standards during all training activities, ensuring a secure environment while pushing students to achieve their full potential.
  • Developed comprehensive curriculum and performance assessments, resulting in improved student proficiency in tactical skills.
  • Aligned instructional techniques with student learning styles, to achieve optimal results in skills acquisition and retention.
  • Led advanced courses on specialized tactics, honing students'' skills in areas such as close-quarters combat and urban warfare.
  • Mentored new instructors entering the program by sharing pedagogical strategies and insights from personal experience gained over time as a Tactics Instructor.
  • Upheld code of conduct and maintained professionalism in stressful situations.
  • Maintained required level of proficiency in use of firearms.

United States Marine Corps

Combat Swim Instructor
12.2011 - 09.2020

Job overview

    • Taught daily swim instruction to students varying in ages and skill levels.
    • Maintained CPR, First Aid, and lifeguard certifications to ensure preparedness for emergency situations during lessons.
    • Promoted a professional learning environment through engaging activities and games designed to reinforce essential swimming skills.
    • Enhanced student swimming abilities through the development and implementation of personalized lesson plans.
    • Demonstrated proper form and technique to prevent injury.
    • Provided emergency first aid and CPR as needed.
    • Improved swimmer confidence by providing consistent positive reinforcement and constructive feedback on technique.
    • Provided positive reinforcement and motivation to increase student confidence and performance.

United States Marine Corps

Motorcycle Safety Instructor
08.2006 - 09.2020

Job overview

Established trust with students by consistently demonstrating expertise in motorcycle mechanics, maintenance procedures, and safe operation techniques.

  • Supported students in overcoming challenges and mastering complex motorcycle maneuvers through patient guidance and expert instruction.
  • Ensured safe learning environment by strictly adhering to safety guidelines during classroom sessions and hands-on training.
  • Enriched overall learning experience by incorporating multimedia presentations into lectures, diversifying instructional methods for increased engagement.
  • Increased student confidence with personalized coaching tailored to individual learning styles and abilities.
  • Promoted responsible riding habits by emphasizing importance of protective gear, defensive driving strategies, and traffic laws compliance.
  • Created a positive impact on student retention rates by offering flexible scheduling options and accommodating individual needs whenever possible.
  • Built rapport with students through open communication channels, fostering a supportive atmosphere conducive to learning success.
  • Developed comprehensive lesson plans, focusing on essential motorcycle skills and techniques for safe riding.
  • Contributed to higher course completion rates by offering additional support and resources for struggling students.
  • Improved student safety awareness by incorporating real-life scenarios and demonstrations into lessons.
  • Strengthened community relationships through active participation in local events, promoting motorcycle safety education among riders of all ages.
  • Demonstrated commitment to excellence in teaching by regularly seeking feedback from students and colleagues, implementing constructive suggestions for continuous improvement.
  • Cultivated strong relationships with local law enforcement agencies, coordinating joint efforts to raise public awareness about motorcycle safety and accident prevention.
  • Conducted practical exercises to assess student progress, providing constructive feedback for improvement.
  • Scheduled appointments with students for driving lessons.
  • Supported student drivers in hands-on road training.
  • Participated in trainings, meetings and seminars to expand knowledge and optimize instruction.
  • Moved vehicle to assigned location and checked and inspected vehicle components to maximize safety.
  • Met needs of different students by adapting teaching materials and methods.
  • Organized activities to promote learning and increase student enjoyment.

United States Marine Corps, USMC

Marine
04.2006 - 09.2020

Job overview

    • Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
    • Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
    • Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
    • Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
    • Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
    • Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance.
    • Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
    • Assisted with day-to-day operations, working efficiently and productively with all team members.
    • Passionate about learning and committed to continual improvement.
    • Worked flexible hours across night, weekend, and holiday shifts.
    • Managed time efficiently in order to complete all tasks within deadlines.
    • Organized and detail-oriented with a strong work ethic.
    • Paid attention to detail while completing assignments.
    • Used critical thinking to break down problems, evaluate solutions and make decisions.
    • Strengthened communication skills through regular interactions with others.
    • Adaptable and proficient in learning new concepts quickly and efficiently.
    • Learned and adapted quickly to new technology and software applications.
    • Proved successful working within tight deadlines and a fast-paced environment.
    • Developed and maintained courteous and effective working relationships.
    • Demonstrated strong organizational and time management skills while managing multiple projects.

United States Marine Corps

UAS Pilot/Sensor Operator
04.2006 - 09.2020

Job overview

  • Conduct air reconnaissance, surveillance, targeting and acquisition missions
  • Plan and analyze flight missions
  • Perform preflight, in flight, and post flight checks and procedures
  • Launch and recover air frame from runway and crane
  • Operate communications equipment, power sources, light/heavy wheeled vehicles and crane operations
  • Qualified to operate: RQ-7B Shadow, RQ-21A Blackjack, Mk4 Aerosonde, ScanEagle
  • Worked directly with North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) to achieve support ground operations in Helmand Provence, Afghanistan.

United States Marine Corps

Recruiter
03.2014 - 05.2017

Job overview

  • Conducted phone interviews to assess applicants relevant knowledge, skills, experience and aptitudes.
  • Conducted reference checks, background screening and other pre-employment checks to verify information on applicant's resume.
  • Coordinated schedules to arrange management interviews with applicants.
  • Built strong relationships with internal and external candidates to ensure an excellent hiring experience.
  • Assisted with onboarding and orientation of new hires to expedite acclimatization process.
  • Advertised job opportunities on social media platforms and job boards.
  • Enhanced recruitment process for faster hiring by utilizing various sourcing tools such as job boards, social media, and networking events.
  • Developed recruiting strategies to identify qualified candidates and build network.
  • Studied job descriptions and qualifications to determine applicant requirements.
  • Collaborated with internal teams to continuously improve recruitment processes and execute as efficiently as possible.
  • Created engaging job postings that accurately reflected position requirements while showcasing company culture.
  • Placed advertisements, evaluated applicant credentials, conducted initial interviews and pre-screening assessments.
  • Emphasized job benefits and perks to applicants to improve organization's attractiveness.
  • Pre-screened resumes prior to sending to corporate hiring managers for consideration.
  • Conducted performance reviews and provided feedback to managers on employee performance.

Education

College of Marin
, Kent, CA

No Degree from Film Production
12.2005

University Overview

GPA: 3.87

  • Awarded Judy for Best Film

Law Enforcement Safety Center, CBP, ATC
, Harpers Ferry, WV

Professional Certificate from Firearms Instructor
02.2024

Federal Law Enforcement Training Center
, Brunswick, GA

Professional Certificate from Law Enforcement
07.2021

Princeton High School
, Princeton, WV

High School Diploma
05.2003

Skills

  • Public Speaking
  • Project Management
  • Risk Assessment
  • Communication
  • Weapon Maintenance
  • First Aid Training
  • Firearms Safety

  • Target acquisition
  • Legal Compliance
  • Close Quarters Combat
  • Shooting Positions
  • Range Management
  • Shotgun proficiency
  • Optics Usage
  • Marksmanship Fundamentals
  • Precision Shooting
  • Policy Enforcement
  • Curriculum Development
  • Performance monitoring

Work Preference

Work Type

Full TimeContract Work

Work Location

On-SiteRemoteHybrid

Important To Me

Paid time off4-day work weekCareer advancementPaid sick leaveFlexible work hoursWork-life balanceCompany Culture

Timeline

Firearms Instructor/Range Safety Officer

Customs and Border Protection Office of Field Operations
08.2020 - Current

Officer

Customs and Border Protection Office of Field Operations
08.2020 - Current

Recruiter

United States Marine Corps
03.2014 - 05.2017

Weapons and Tactics Instructor (WTI)

United States Marine Corps, USMC
05.2012 - 09.2020

Combat Swim Instructor

United States Marine Corps
12.2011 - 09.2020

Motorcycle Safety Instructor

United States Marine Corps
08.2006 - 09.2020

Marine

United States Marine Corps, USMC
04.2006 - 09.2020

UAS Pilot/Sensor Operator

United States Marine Corps
04.2006 - 09.2020

College of Marin

No Degree from Film Production

Law Enforcement Safety Center, CBP, ATC

Professional Certificate from Firearms Instructor

Federal Law Enforcement Training Center

Professional Certificate from Law Enforcement

Princeton High School

High School Diploma
Ken Bowen