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.

P.J. Chiaravalle,

Founder of Safety Suit Academy

Margaret Chiaravalle knows what it’s like to live in fear—always bracing, always scanning, never quite safe. As the founder of Safety Suit Academy and creator of the Safety Within Journey™ – From Fear to Freedom, she helps women who feel anxious, overwhelmed, and stuck in survival mode reclaim their power, presence, and peace. With over 40 years of martial arts training and deep expertise in trauma-informed self-defense, Qi Gong, and nervous system regulation, Margaret guides others to build embodied safety from the inside out—and finally live free.

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 SafetyWithin Journey.

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

Al Gauthier