Eric “Mac” Mackinzie is a leading specialist in onsite violence prevention and readiness for schools, churches, and businesses. As the founder of Critical Defense Group, Mac brings more than 30 years of professional experience to the stage, delivering educational presentations that transform fear into proactive preparation.

A U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Mac’s background includes four years as a high-threat protection specialist for the U.S. Department of State, serving as a private military contractor at one of the most frequently attacked regional embassies in Basra, Iraq. This real-world experience in extreme environments informs every aspect of his training and instruction.

Mac’s sessions are known for being dynamic, engaging, and highly informative. He goes beyond awareness, equipping organizations with clear, actionable strategies to prepare for worst-case scenarios while strengthening psychological resilience and decision-making under pressure. His approach blends strategic readiness with practical application, ensuring participants leave not just informed, but prepared.

Committed to ongoing research in safety protocols and crisis management, Mac is currently developing comprehensive readiness frameworks tailored for small-to-mid-sized organizations. Through his work, he helps institutions build sustainable cultures of safety, vigilance, and confidence.

With certifications spanning military, federal, and state agencies, Mac ensures every course delivered through Critical Defense Group is rooted in proven, life-saving methodologies and real-world tactical excellence.