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About Us
Ernest
Along with being a devoted husband and father, I am an NRA Certified Instructor and former Military Firearm Instructor Trainer with the United States Marine Corps, driven by a passion for fostering safe and responsible firearm use in Bernalillo County. Based in Albuquerque, New Mexico, I bring extensive experience training over 500 military personnel and countless civilians in firearm handling, marksmanship, and safety protocols.
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With a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Logistics from Colorado Technical University (2025), I combine my expertise in operations and supply chain management with my commitment to public safety. As the lead instructor at Hive Defense Academy, I design and deliver comprehensive training programs, including NRA-approved courses, community workshops, and one-on-one coaching, to empower individuals of all skill levels. My focus is on creating a judgment-free environment where novices and seasoned firearm enthusiasts can build confidence, master safe handling, and appreciate the recreational and cultural aspects of firearms, such as sport shooting and collecting.
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I am deeply knowledgeable in New Mexico’s firearm laws, emphasizing legal responsibilities, safe storage, and practical self-defense. My skills in risk management, emergency response, and instructional design ensure safe, engaging, and effective training experiences. Through community engagement and a dedication to ethical firearm use, I strive to enhance public safety and cultivate a culture of respect and proficiency in Bernalillo County.
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Mission
At Hive Defense Academy, a family-owned business in Albuquerque, New Mexico, our mission is to empower individuals with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to handle firearms safely and responsibly. Led by NRA Certified Instructor Ernest Pierce and supported by NRA Certified Junior CCW Apprentice Lily, we provide top-tier Concealed Carry Weapon (CCW) training rooted in rigorous standards, hands-on experience, and a deep commitment to community well-being. We foster a judgment-free, nurturing environment where beginners and seasoned firearm owners alike can grow, guided by our passion for safety, education, and lifelong learning. With a strong foundation in New Mexico’s legal and cultural context, we strive to enhance public safety and inspire the next generation of responsible firearm owners in Bernalillo County and beyond.
Vision
We envision a community where every individual feels secure and informed in their firearm use, fostered by Hive Defense Academy’s leadership in innovative, inclusive training. Our goal is to set the standard for excellence in CCW education, expanding access and promoting lifelong responsibility across New Mexico.
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