Lead Instructor and Vehicle Centric Defensive Tactics (VCDT) Training Coordinator
Joe Valente is a veteran of the U.S. Army with 7 years of active duty service. During that time, he served in a variety of units, highlighted by assignments as a reconnaissance team leader and team leader for the protective security detail for a field grade officer deployed to Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom. Other notable assignments include selection as a Rifle Marksmanship Instructor assigned to the 10th Mountain Division Light Fighter School.
Upon returning to civilian life, Mr. Valente pursued a career in executive protection through training at several prominent private sector schools, including VDI. In keeping with the training he completed, his private sector security experience encompasses residential security, close protection, surveillance detection, and protective surveillance. While completing the rigorous instructor development pipeline here at VDI, he held positions as an Assistant Instructor, Sr. Assistant Instructor, and Primary Instructor before stepping into the Lead Instructor role.
In his role as VDI’s Vehicle Centric Defensive Tactics Training Coordinator, Joe brings knowledge of various martial arts, including Muy Thai and the Keysi Fighting Method (KFM), to the design development, and delivery of the VCDT’s leading-edge approach to self-defense and defense of others.
In addition to his professional security and defensive tactics experience, Joe is a State-certified, nationally registered EMT with hands-on experience as a first responder and per diem medical service provider.