About us

Empowering Safer Communities

Who We Are

At TRAIN4CCW, we are committed to empowering individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to protect themselves and their loved ones. We believe in the fundamental right to personal safety and the importance of being prepared. With over two decades of experience, our Director of Training has helped thousands of students develop critical skills in personal defense, de-escalation, and emergency response. In light of recent changes to New York State firearm laws, we remain focused on delivering responsible, accessible, and effective training to those who choose to carry

Our mission is to provide comprehensive, high-quality instruction that promotes awareness, builds confidence, and enhances an individual’s ability to respond effectively in life-threatening situations. Through expert-led training, we emphasize safety, legal responsibility, accident prevention, and survival readiness.

Our primary objective is to equip individuals with the practical tools needed to navigate real-world challenges with confidence and care. This includes training in self-defense techniques, de-escalation strategies, and firearm safety protocols that align with current laws and best practices. We aim to promote a culture of preparedness and accountability, supporting responsible firearm ownership and contributing to the overall safety and well-being of our communities.

Train4CCW - Concealed Carry Weapons Training Course New York - Don Scheman

Don Scheman

Don Scheman is a seasoned instructor and safety professional with over 20 years of experience in security, firearms, and defensive tactics training. As a former New York State law enforcement officer, he brings real-world insight and a commitment to high standards in every class he teaches. Don is passionate about equipping individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to protect themselves and others, whether in the field or everyday life.

Education & Credentials

Don graduated Summa Cum Laude from Fordham University and attended Pace School of Law. His professional credentials include:

  • Former NYS Law Enforcement Officer

  • NYS Licensed Private Investigator

  • NYS DCJS-Approved General Topics and Master Instructor

  • Certified NRA Pistol Instructor – Conducting NYS CCW Courses

  • Certified CPR, AED, and First Aid Instructor

  • FDNY-Approved Fire Safety Instructor

  • Certified PPCT Instructor – Teaching SHARP (Sexual Harassment and Rape Prevention)

  • NYS Defensive Driving Instructor – Offering insurance and point reduction classes

  • Over 20 years of experience teaching Security Guard Training

Train4CCW - Concealed Carry Weapons Training Course New York - Alfred Medina

Alfred Medina

Alfred Medina is a highly respected training professional with extensive experience in law enforcement, defensive tactics, and instructional leadership. As a retired NYPD Sergeant and current Director of Training, Alfred brings discipline, real-world expertise, and a hands-on approach to every class he leads.

Education & Credentials

Alfred holds a degree from Fordham University and a Master’s in Public Administration (MPA). His wide-ranging certifications and achievements include:

  • NYS DCJS Master Instructor

  • PPCT Staff Instructor

  • Certified NRA Instructor

  • Martial Arts Instructor – Black Belt in TaeKwonDo and Hapkido

  • Instructor in Pepper Spray, Baton, and Speed Handcuffing Techniques

With a background in both tactical training and academic development, Alfred is dedicated to preparing individuals for real-life security and self-defense situations with professionalism and precision.

Stephen Lawrence

Stephen Lawrence brings a unique combination of medical, tactical, and firearms safety expertise to the classroom. With decades of experience in emergency services and firearms training, he is committed to teaching with precision, clarity, and a deep understanding of safety protocols.

Education & Credentials

Stephen holds a Master of Science in Nursing Education (MSNEd) and is a licensed Registered Nurse (RN) and Paramedic (EMT-P). His broad and distinguished certifications include:

  • Certified Instructor Coordinator (CIC)

  • Certified Pistol Range Safety Officer and Chief Range Safety Officer

  • Instructor in In-Home and Out-of-Home Pistol Defense and Shotgun Safety

  • Master Instructor with the American Heart Association (AHA)

Stephen’s unique blend of medical knowledge and tactical instruction makes him a trusted and respected leader in both emergency response and firearms safety training.

Our team has trained thousands of individuals across New York.

We’re proud to serve the Bronx, Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan, White Plains, and any location that can host a safe training space.