Zachary R. Pugh

Zachary R. Pugh is a nationally recognized safety and preparedness expert, speaker, and founder of Pugh Self-Protection & Combatives. With over a decade of law enforcement experience, extensive instructor certifications, and real-world experience responding to critical incidents, Zachary brings a unique perspective on personal safety, emergency preparedness, and human behavior under stress.

Through his signature Active Shooter ResponseAbility™ Training, Zachary challenges traditional approaches to violence prevention by focusing on realistic preparation, practical decision-making, and empowering individuals to become active participants in their own survival.

His presentations go beyond awareness and fear-based messaging. Zachary provides audiences with actionable strategies that improve confidence, resilience, and readiness when facing unexpected threats. Whether speaking to schools, healthcare organizations, businesses, or community groups, his mission is simple: help people understand that preparation is the foundation of safety.