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NAME: RUSS BAKER POSTION: OWNER/INSTRUCTOR - State License #932606 PHONE: (931) 494-4036 ON SITE TRAINING LOCATION: Tennessee Gun Country 1435 Fort Campbell Boulevard Clarksville, TN 37042 Russ’s story is one of long and dedicated service. Originally from central California, he embarked on a military career in 1976, joining the US Army. Initially posted with the 1/509 ABCT in Italy as an airborne infantryman. Upon his retirement from the Army, Russ embarked on a second career in law enforcement, serving with the Clarksville Police Department (CPD) for the next two decades, working primarily in the north Clarksville area, where he applied his prior experience and training to his role in community protection. |
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Upon retiring from CPD, and in addition to training armed guards (AG), Russ also works with the Apex Security Group, conducting armed security as a supervisor at the major venues in the Nashville area.
Russ’ qualifications are extensive and impressive, reflecting a lifetime of specialized training and experience. Some of his many qualifications are: TN AG/ Dallas Law/ Less Lethal/ Active Shooter Instructor (#932606) Operations & Intelligence SOTIC (sniper) Instructor SFARTAETC (CQB) NRA Pistol instructor Patrol Rifle Instructor Emergency Medical Tech |
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- Details
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NAME: AMANDA ENGEL POSTION: OWNER/ INSTRUCTOR - State License #932626 PHONE: (931) 494-4036 ON SITE TRAINING LOCATION: Tennessee Gun Country 1435 Fort Campbell Boulevard Clarksville, TN 37042 Amanda Engel brings a unique and well-rounded background to security training, blending real-world experience, instructional skill, and a people-first approach to learning. |
Originally from Riverside, California, Amanda relocated to Tennessee, where her professional path evolved through entrepreneurship, fitness coaching, and ultimately the security field. For several years, she successfully owned and operated a custom cake business, developing strong organizational, leadership, and client-focused skills. She later transitioned into fitness, serving as a CrossFit Level 1 Trainer from 2016 to 2024, where she gained extensive experience teaching adults of all skill levels in high-stress, performance-based environments.
In 2021, Amanda entered the security profession, beginning as an unarmed guard before quickly advancing to armed security. She has worked a wide range of assignments, including major venues and high-visibility events throughout Middle Tennessee. In 2022, she stepped into a supervisory and assistant instructor role, helping train and mentor new guards while ensuring compliance with Tennessee regulations and safety standards.
Amanda’s instructional style is clear, structured, and approachable. She is known for creating an environment where students feel confident asking questions, learning practical skills, and understanding not just the how — but the why — behind security procedures and use-of-force decision making.
In addition to her work in training, Amanda currently serves as a licensed bail bondsman in Clarksville, further expanding her real-world experience within the security and enforcement landscape. She remains committed to continued professional development and maintaining the highest standards of instruction and safety.
Amanda believes effective training should be realistic, professional, and grounded in accountability — while still being supportive and confidence-building. Her goal is to ensure every student leaves class prepared, informed, and capable of performing their duties safely and responsibly.
Certifications & Training
- Tennessee State Certified Security Guard Trainer
- CPR Instructor – American Red Cross
- NRA Certified Pistol Instructor
- Dallas Law instruction
- Less-Lethal Instruction
- Active Shooter Response Training
- Basic Pistol Course Instruction
- Details
- Category: STAFF-VANGUARD SECURITY TRAINING
OUR PRIMARY STAFF
Each of our staff members are security professional instructors. They care about students and results:
• RUSS BAKER
• SHERRY BAKER
• AMANDA ENGEL
• MATT ENGEL