In law enforcement circles, the ballistic shield, by its nature, has been deployed primarily as a “defensive tool”. Heavy, cumbersome and with a limited view to the environment, has propagated the mindset and thought processes the ballistic shield is more of a hindrance than an asset. NOTHING could be further from the truth! Advances in ballistic technology have led to the development of a new breed of shields that are smaller, lighter and easier to maneuver in a myriad of applications. Instructor BIO ​ Detective Sergeant Michael Hart started his Law Enforcement career in 2001 and is currently employed with an agency located in Central Indiana. Michael Currently oversees the Criminal Investigations Division and Serves as the SWAT Team Leader. Michael Has held several positions to include Warrants, Patrol, Street Crimes Unit, K9, and SWAT. Michael has been assigned to the SWAT Team for 17 years where he has held the positions of Team Leader, Assistant Team Leader, Sniper, Less Lethal, and Shield Operator. Michael is a State certified Law Enforcement Instructor through the state of Indiana in the following areas: Firearms, General, Close Quarter Battle, Ground Fighting and ASP. Michael Holds a Firearms Instructor Certification through the NRA LE Division, Less-Lethal instructor Certification and Patrol Rifle Instructor Certification through Safariland. Michael holds and an Active Shooter Instructor Certification through FLETC and is certified in both the basic and advanced dignitary protection program through the U.S. Department of State. Michael is a Ballistic Shield Instructor and has been teaching shield classes since 2010. Also, Michael is the past President of the Indiana SWAT Officers Association and was a member of the Executive Board for 13 years. Course description: In law enforcement circles, the ballistic shield, by its nature, has been deployed primarily as a “defensive tool”. Heavy, cumbersome and with a limited view to the environment, has propagated the mindset and thought processes the ballistic shield is more of a hindrance than an asset. NOTHING could be further from the truth! Advances in ballistic technology have led to the development of a new breed of shields that are smaller, lighter and easier to maneuver in a myriad of applications. This eight (8) hour block of instruction will expose the attendee to the advantages of utilizing a ballistic shield in a “offensive” nature. This is an operator course by design and will provide the attendee with an opportunity to expand his/her understanding and knowledge with a general overview of proven ballistic shield deployment concepts and strategies. Understanding the necessary elements for operations are speed, surprise and intensity of action, when coupled with a maneuverable ballistic corner as a clearing element, it can greatly enhance the safety of the entry team and further increase the probability of prevailing in an encounter. Student equipment: *Equipment List* No Live Ammo, Blue gun, SIMMS gun or Training gun are acceptable Call-out Kit Long Gun Handgun Duty Belt Note Taking Material Ballistic Shield