About Us

Comprehensive self-defense training for confidence, safety, and empowerment in today's world.

Al Gauthier is the owner of Hillside Martial Arts Center in Bowie, Maryland, and the senior instructor and founder of Defensive Tactics Systems – a modern self-defense system designed to address real-world violence. With decades of experience in various martial arts disciplines, as well as modern police and military combatives, Al brings unmatched expertise to his students.

Al's distinguished background includes serving as a police officer and as an International Police Advisor with the U.S. Department of State. He was a team leader for a mobile training team attached to the U.S. Army in Iraq and contributed to counter-terrorism efforts through the Anti-Terrorism Assistance Training Program stationed in Amman, Jordan. His extensive field experience has shaped his approach to practical and effective self-defense training.

Certified as a police instructor through the Maryland Police Training Commission and the U.S. Department of Justice, Al has taught his Defensive Tactics System worldwide, impacting people from all walks of life. His program has received numerous commendations for its effectiveness and life-saving applications.

Al's mission through Defensive Tactics Systems is clear – to save lives through comprehensive training and education. His dedication to empowering individuals with real-world self-defense skills has made him a respected leader in the field of personal safety and martial arts education.

Margaret Chiaravalle,

Founder of Safety Suit Academy

For over 30 years, I have dedicated my life to mastering martial arts, self-defense, and nervous system regulation, helping individuals transform fear into confidence and vulnerability into strength. As the founder of Safety Suit Academy, I bring a unique approach that blends practical self-defense, tactical training, and emotional resilience to empower women to take control of their safety.

My journey through Martial Arts is rooted in the embodiment of Qi Gong, Daoist Nei Gong, Haeng Gong, and meditation, refining the mind-body connection for resilience and strength. This deep foundation allows me to guide others toward emotional freedom and self-mastery.

I also bring comprehensive expertise in Self-Defense and Tactical Training, including modern defense systems, situational awareness, de-escalation strategies, and hand-to-hand combat techniques. My real-world applications cover critical scenarios such as carjacking defense, active shooter situations, and tactical firearms training, equipping individuals with the skills to respond effectively to any threat.

As a Certified Trauma Coach, I teach strategies for nervous system regulation and trauma recovery, helping people remain calm and decisive under pressure. My approach ensures harmony between body and mind, even in the most high-stress situations.

I am dedicated to empowering others with the tools they need to navigate life’s challenges with confidence, strength, and emotional resilience.

Join me online for the Embodied Resilience course.

Why Train With SafetySuit Academy?

We don’t just teach self-defense—we teach empowerment. Our courses are designed for real-life situations, ensuring that you leave with practical, effective, and easy-to-use techniques that could one day save your life. Our mission is to help you feel strong, capable, and in control of your safety—no matter where life takes you.

Your safety is non-negotiable. Your confidence is within reach. Let’s train together and build the skills you need to live fearlessly and powerfully.

👉 Join me at Safety Suit Academy and take the first step toward your empowered future.

Empowering women with the skills to feel safe, powerful and confident.

Owner of Hillside Martial Arts Center, Senior Instructor & Founder of Defensive Tactics Systems