Tactical Cowboy is committed to delivering top-notch self-defense, tactical, and firearms training through group classes and personalized 1-on-1 mentorship. Our elite team, including Army Rangers, Green Berets, Marines, and other professionals, offers cutting-edge skills in a zero-ego environment.
We live by the motto Lead The Way, promoting leadership and professionalism in all areas—fitness, family, and tactics. Our focus on mentorship over instruction helps gun owners develop responsible firearm habits, enhance real-world skills, and prepare for dynamic scenarios.
Join Tactical Cowboy to build confidence, sharpen your tactics, and connect with like-minded individuals.
Meet our Team Below…
Founder & Director of Training
Devin Soto
This company was created & named Tactical Cowboy because of my love of all things Western instilled in me by my grandfather. From a young age he taught me many life lessons. The main lesson I bring into this business of marksmanship & tactical training that he taught me is the idea of measure twice, cut once. The “measure twice cut once” ideology is worked into all of our courses here at TCTS from basic firearms safety all the way to small unit tactics. It is all about training at a high level to ensure REPEATABLE & CONSISTENT results out of our students. We want to instill the skill in you that in terms of self defense and physical preparedness you will only need to “cut once” if the time ever arises. An example of this in terms of marksmanship is that we require every one of our students who wants to become proficient at their pistol skills to eventually become so extremely consistent that EVERY time they send a round down range they know exactly where it is going. That is my mission with this company.
My accolades include becoming a United States Army Ranger, four deployments conducting the Ranger Mission in Afghanistan, Operating as a Security & Training Consultant for high value clients in the US & abroad, a Bachelors in Human Physiology from the University of Colorado Boulder, certifications in Self Defense / Tactical Strength & Conditioning, and finally providing firearms instruction for individuals of all experience levels from children to Special Operations Veterans.
Throughout my 30 years of accomplishing these tasks I have had more ups and downs along the way than one could count. I have lost family members, friends, & motivation but always found a way to overcome the odds. What I am here to do today is to help you do the same. With my experiences in the personal security world, athletic training realm, and in the special operations sector of the military I have helped numerous friends & family members along the way change their mindset about life and attain their goals whether they be physical, tactical, or mental.
I would love to support you along your journey in any of these facets. If you are interested & would like to take control of your life please feel free to reach out to me at any time. Here is my professional contact information.
Email - devin@thetacticalcowboy.com
Phone - (815)-503-2969
Competitive Pistol Expert
Tommy Le
Hi, my name is Tommy Le, and I am a proud first-generation American from the heart of Kansas. I am deeply grateful for the freedoms we enjoy and am committed to empowering others with the skills necessary to protect themselves. My parents were refugees from the Vietnam War, forced to leave everything behind in their struggle to escape Communism to find a better life for themselves, and successfully raised four sons. They instilled in us the importance of self-reliance and the value of learning how to protect our loved ones.
My extensive background in combat sports and mixed martial arts has given me a unique perspective on firearms training. I have a solid foundation built on discipline, focus, and consistency that I strive to impart to others. My competitive experience includes Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai Kickboxing, and MMA, all of which have equipped me with a deep understanding of what it takes to succeed in the face of adversity.
Today, I am proud to be part of the esteemed Tactical Cowboy Training Solutions family, where I have had the privilege of training with some of the most experienced professionals in the industry. This opportunity has allowed me to refine my skills in a supportive and challenging environment while also sharing my passion with others. For me, tactical firearms training is not just about shooting a gun; it's about instilling responsibility, discipline, and preparedness. With my experience, unwavering dedication, and passion for excellence, I aim to help others learn these vital skills and values.
Cheers,
Tommy
Marksmanship & Tactics Expert
Michael Wynne
Welcome to the family! My name is Michael Wynne. I was born in Louisiana and spent most of my childhood moving around the south before enlisting in the Marine Corps infantry in 2013 as an 0311 Rifleman.
Serving with 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines as a team leader, I spent a lot of my time training foreign militaries in tactics, shooting, medical combat casualty care, as well as providing humanitarian relief to nearby areas. Following my enlistment with the Marine Corps I began working as a security contractor in Afghanistan supporting joint NATO missions in the region.
Since the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan I have continued working as a security contractor for the U.S. State Department where I have been fortunate to train and work alongside veterans with a diverse background of experience and skills.
When stateside I enjoy spending time with my family and doing outdoors activities such as camping, hiking, and climbing. I look forward to working with you all on the range and helping to progress your skills and marksmanship.
Marksmanship & Squad Tactics Expert
Braiden Mataroa
Hi, I’m Braiden. I served 5 years on active duty in the United States Marine Corps with CLR-15 and MWSS-172, where I developed a strong foundation in versatility and proficiency across multiple tactical disciplines. That experience instilled in me the importance of adaptability, discipline, and precision—principles I continue to apply and teach today. Over the years, I’ve found a passion for training others, helping them build confidence and capability with the skills I’ve learned and refined. Now in Provo, Utah, I remain active in pursuits such as rock climbing, rucking, camping, and a wide range of shooting disciplines. As a member of the Tactical Cowboy Team, I’m committed to passing on proven knowledge, building strong fundamentals, and ensuring every student leaves more prepared than when they arrived.
Concealed Pistol & Self Defense Expert
Isaac Woolsey
I'm Isaac Woolsey, born in Oahu, Hawaii. Kahuku High School taught me to embrace passion. Since 2019, I've begun to master my skills in firearms, private armed security, risk assessment, and crisis management. I thoroughly love to shoot and attend local classes and competitions to continuously excel in my passion. I recently attended and graduated from the school EPI (Executive Protection Institute) where I have come to a more in depth understanding of the world in executive protection. I founded Mana Defense Solutions LLC to equip firearm owners with skills and confidence for responsible gun ownership with the 2 worlds of executive protection and conceal carrying. All while spreading the Spirit of Aloha.
SWAT Officer & Close Quarters Tactics Expert
Gabe Smith
I’ve dedicated my life to service and readiness. I served in the U.S. Army for 6 years with two deployments to Iraq in 2003 and 2005 and now work as a police officer for the Reno Police Department. During my career, I served on the SWAT team for over 7 years and as a Sniper for 5 years.
I’m passionate about sharing the lessons I’ve learned from the military, law enforcement, and life. Fitness and mental resilience aren’t just vital on the range or in the field, they’re essential for everyday challenges. My goal is to equip you with the skills, mindset, and confidence to protect yourself, protect others, and be a trusted asset to your community.
Self Defense Expert
Will Cooper
I’ve been shooting from a young age. I grew up hunting and have just advance my shooting abilities from there. I got my concealed carry permit in 2013 and have been focused on tactical and self defense shooting since. I realize that by carrying a gun I have a responsibility to protect myself and others and I need to do that as efficiently as I can. My main focus is the fundamentals because without them you don’t have a good base to build on and you likely won’t see your full potential. I do my best to practice the fundamentals as much as possible to make sure I keep that base so I can keep expanding and pushing myself. I have a passion for teaching people how to protect themselves and others and it makes me happy when I see people better themselves. I love to teach but I will also always be a student because I know that there is always more to learn and the more I learn the more I can pass along to anyone that’s asks for my help. I look forward to meeting you and helping expand your base to build on.
Law Enforcement Officer & Marksmanship Expert
Austin Duckworth
Hey, my name is Austin Duckworth. Like lots of folks, I started shooting at a young age, spending time out in the desert with my grandfather shooting clays. Some time passed, and so did my grandfather, but my love for shooting continued to grow. With my grandfather’s passing, I was left as the man of the house for my mother, grandmother, and younger sister. This only further pushed me down the path of wanting to become the best protector I could. This started with things like concealed carry and grew into things like getting fit in the gym, eating right, and being a leader to those I love.
Fast forward some time, and not much has changed. Professionally, I’ve been working in the firearms industry for years, doing everything from making steel targets and loading ammunition to gunsmithing and armoring! Personally, I’ve made a life of setting goals—hitting some, missing others—but always trying to push the boundaries of what I’m capable of.
Today, I am fortunate enough to have a team like this helping me crush my own boundaries. The wealth of knowledge and genuine care that every mentor on this team has to share is inspiring. I am proud and humbled to be here with this team and am beyond excited to pass on what we have learned together to you!
Emergency Medical Expert
Jake Steffan
I Started in EMS as an EMT in 2006 became a Paramedic in 2008 and joined the Army in 2010 with the 1-32IN 3BCT 10th Mountain Division as an 11B taking over medical duties after 3 medics (68W) were wounded during OEF XI-XII. Hired by the Chicago Fire Department in 2014 and is currently a Paramedic In Charge. Has been an Illinois Department of Public Health Lead EMS Instructor since 2017 teaching up to 60 EMT students a year. An ACS Stop the Bleed Instructor. Graduated with an Associates in Nursing in 2020 and continued with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2021.
My goal is to provide the best real-world application in medical care you can give to a loved one or friend. Following the latest guidance available in trauma care, medical care, and any other topic you may want tailored to your learning environment. At the end of a class myself and the Tactical Cowboy family will ensure that you have the confidence to face any situation that may arise.
Competitive Pistol Expert
Patrick Brower
I'm a seasoned shooter, Navy Veteran, Wildland Firefighter, Ski Patroller, Match Director and Mentor with TCTS. Born in Riverside, CA but raised in Cedar City Utah on a small ranch. I grew up around firearms and used them to hunt from a young age.
I served in the Navy immediately after high school, and spent most of my Navy career training with small specialized units at the Naval Special Warfare Center in Coronado CA. I took on the challenge of attending the most difficult military training in the world, Basic Underwater Demolition School/ SEAL training. Health issues developed during training cut my time in the Navy short however, and I set out to discover a new path in life. While in the Navy I developed a good understanding of how to work as!a member of a team, and how to be a leader.
After my time in the Navy I began working for a private investigation agency. In order to investigate child trafficking and child abuse cases I would carry firearms as a last line of defense. Firearms training again became very important for my health and safety. I attended several firearms courses through "Frontsight". During this time I became certified as an EMT because I saw the need to be proficient not only in potentially taking a life but also how to save one. Because of my EMT certification and a passion for snowboarding and skiing I became a ski patroler during the winters and after attending a wildland firefighter training camp I began fighting wildfires in the summers, while still working for the private investigation agency. I am currently still involved in firefighting, managing a crew of firefighters that support aerial wildland firefighting operations.
Since 2020, I have been a serious competion shooter, holding the title of "Master" class shooter in USPSA's Pistol Caliber Carbine division and an "A" class shooter in Limited Optics and Carry Optics divisions.
In November of 2022 I attended a small unit tactics course with Devin and the Tactical Cowboy crew, where once again I was able to work with a small unit of highly trained professionals and I also discovered the "Tactical Cowboy Family." I feel honored to work with like-minded individuals and professionals to further our knowledge, techniques, and skill set together.
Competitive Pistol Expert
Ryan Dilello
From the moment I shot my first gun at five years old, I fell in love with firearms. I grew up shooting and have been a serious tactical practitioner since 2018, gaining high levels of proficiency with pistol, rifle, and long guns. I am a member of the Tactical Cowboy competition team, and my training also includes close quarters combat (CQB), small unit tactics, and night vision. I have been a teacher and coach throughout my life and love helping others grow and develop their skills.
Before my firearms career, you may have seen me on TV shows like So You Think You Can Dance and Dancing with the Stars. I was a professional dancer and starred on Broadway and performed in 45 countries around the world.
Competitive Pistol Expert
Parker Ashton
From as early as I can remember, the spirit of the American warrior has coursed through my veins. I will always be a proud citizen of the United States. I hold no law enforcement badge, no military commission—no formal title or rank. Yet the duty to defend this land, its people, my family, and my friends is woven into the very fabric of who I am. It is a responsibility I embrace not by designation, but by conviction.
I hold myself to a standard far beyond the status quo in the tactical arena—not merely to maintain competence, but to pursue excellence at the highest levels the world has to offer. Since 2020, my journey to obtain mastery in the art of the modern warrior has been forged through relentless self‑training, leveraging every resource available to refine my skill set. Along the way, I discovered TCTS, where I’ve had the privilege of learning under the exceptional mentors you see before you. I have successfully completed two Performance Operator assessments, earning Top Shot honors in both.
It was through mentor Tommy Lee that I was introduced to the world of USPSA, which ignited a deep passion for the sport. I now compete nationwide in both the Carry Optics and Limited Optics divisions, having achieved Master Class status in both. Competing against the best shooters in the world continues to fuel my ambition to one day claim national and world titles.
Being invited to become a mentor at TCTS is a profound honor. It is my duty—and my privilege—to uphold and pass on the highest standards of tactical and competitive performance. Sharing what I’ve learned, and helping others reach their full potential, is a calling I accept with gratitude and pride.
Emergency Medical Expert
Jamison Sermon
My name is Jamison. I served four years in 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, where I completed two deployments to Afghanistan. I then left the Army to pursue my education at Utah State University where I earned my Bachelor's degree in Business Administration with minors in marketing and entrepreneurship.
After completing my degree I decided to pursue a career in the Fire Service. I earned my EMT basic, Firefighter and Hazmat certifications from UVU, and my Advanced EMT from EMT Utah. I am currently working as a full time Firefighter for South Davis Metro Fire. I am also working on various entrepreneurial endeavors.I enjoy spending time with my wife and kids and enjoy any excuse to go shooting, dive into small unit tactics, tactical medicine, and teaching.
Squad Tactics Specialist
Justin Johnsen
Hi, I’m Justin! Devin and I met at 2nd Ranger Battalion and eventually became team leaders together in our platoon’s weapons squad. I spent my first three trips to Afghanistan as my fire team’s SAW gunner. During that time, I earned a Ranger Tab and got to learn from some of the greatest team leaders to ever grace the US Army. Before my fourth trip, I was promoted to Corporal and became a gun team leader. This was by far my favorite job I’ve ever had. Our squad excelled and I learned quickly that I loved being in leadership positions.
After getting out of the Army, I studied geology, first as an undergrad at Pacific Lutheran University, then as a Master’s candidate at the University of Washington. My time at UW was cut short when I was referred to a leadership training position with a local building materials company.
Currently, I’m a mine manager for that same company in Clark County, WA. I spend my free time hunting, dirt biking, surfing, snowboarding and backpacking.
More than anything, I love sharing my acquired knowledge with people who are passionate about learning and perfecting their craft. This is why I am so honored and excited to be joining the Tactical Cowboy team! I look forward to both sharing what I’ve learned as well as learning from fellow “projectile enthusiasts”. See y’all out on the range!

