Imagine this: you’re at work, the mall, a sporting event—or maybe even in your own home—when someone nearby suddenly collapses, gasping, no pulse. Panic ensues. You glance around to see everyone is shocked, frozen, hoping someone else will step forward. But what if you were the one who knew what to do? What if your […]
Every August and September, millions of families across the U.S. go through the familiar back-to-school routine: shopping for supplies, snapping first-day photos, and setting new schedules. But alongside the excitement, there’s a sobering undercurrent that’s hard to ignore: the concern for children’s safety in the place they should be most secure: school. It’s a conversation […]
Churches are meant to be sanctuaries—places of worship, peace, and community. Yet in today’s world, faith-based organizations are increasingly recognizing the need to prepare for the unthinkable: an active shooter event. From Sunday services to youth gatherings, any moment of communal worship could be disrupted by violence. At ProActive Response Group, we believe that being […]
Stop Reacting, Start Preparing: The ROI of a Security Assessment When a crisis happens—whether it’s a violent incident, a workplace threat, or a serious safety breach—the first question most leaders ask is: “Could this have been prevented?” In many cases, the answer is yes. Too often, businesses wait until after something goes wrong to take […]
Every year, during the month of May, ProActive Response Group joins the nationwide effort to raise awareness about a life-saving initiative known as Stop the Bleed Month. Stop the Bleed is a national awareness campaign that empowers individuals to become immediate responders in emergencies involving severe bleeding. By educating the public about bleeding control techniques, […]
When it comes to workplace security, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that visible measures are enough. Security cameras? Check. Locked doors? Check. Maybe even a guard at the front desk. But at ProActive Response Group, we’ve seen time and time again that the biggest threats often lie beneath the surface. They […]
In an emergency, seconds matter. Whether it’s a cardiac arrest at a workplace, school, or public setting, having the knowledge and skills to respond effectively can mean the difference between life and death. Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Automated External Defibrillator (AED) training equip individuals with the ability to take immediate action in critical situations. At […]
In today’s world, the ability to de-escalate potentially violent situations in environments like schools and workplaces is more critical than ever. Tensions can arise in various settings due to a myriad of factors, including stress, misunderstandings, or external influences. Knowing how to recognize and address these situations before they spiral out of control can make […]
Workplace safety is a cornerstone of any successful organization, and understanding the early warning signs of workplace violence is a critical component of maintaining a secure environment. The beginning of a new year is an excellent time for employers to reevaluate safety protocols and implement strategies to protect employees. By recognizing potential red flags and […]
The holiday season, a time of joy and celebration, often comes with an unexpected downside: a significant increase in theft. Burglars and thieves take advantage of bustling schedules, distracted individuals, and homes filled with valuable gifts. By understanding the risks and staying situationally aware, you can better protect your home, car, and belongings during this […]
Jim served as a Sheriff’s Deputy in Illinois for 30 years. During his time as a Deputy, Jim served on the SWAT team as an operator, team leader and Commander. Jim was involved in several barricaded gunman/hostage incidents as well as service of high risk arrest and search warrants.
Jim was a member of the US Marshals Great Lakes Regional Fugitive Task Force where he performed surveillance and fugitive apprehension. His team was responsible for thousands of high risk felony fugitive arrests. Jim also served in the patrol division where he earned the rank of Sergeant and was responsible for patrol operations. Jim received numerous awards throughout his career to include Deputy of the Year, medal of valor and unit citation for SWAT operations.
Jim was a state certified CQB (Close Quarter Battle) SWAT instructor as well as an Active Shooter Response instructor, providing training for multiple law enforcement agencies throughout the state of Illinois.
I’m a proven leader with a diverse background in defense, law enforcement, and emergency response. My career began as a Scout Sniper in the U.S. Marine Corps, where I earned the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal. I then served as a security contractor in Afghanistan and Iraq, further developing my tactical and crisis management skills.
Domestically, I served as a Deputy for the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office, earning a Medal of Valor, and as a firefighter, where I was awarded a Life Saving Ribbon. These roles reflect my commitment to safety and service, demonstrating leadership under pressure and a passion for protecting others.
As part of the Proactive Response Group Team, I design and deliver comprehensive medical training, developing lesson plans and conducting hands-on sessions. I ensure that participants are equipped with essential medical skills, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and readiness. My role is vital in preparing our team to handle medical emergencies confidently and competently.
Email: jpregel16@gmail.com
Phone: 720-382-3184
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-pregel-67765451/
Chris is a retired Major from the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office in South Carolina. Chris was third in command over operations, overseeing more than 300 sworn Deputies as well as all special teams within the Sheriff’s Office. In 2012, Chris helped to organize a Dignitary Protection Team within the Sheriff’s Office that assisted the Secret Service with Presidential and Vice Presidential visits throughout the state. In addition to his normal duties, Chris performs private security for dignitaries, celebrities, as well as 12 years with the Miss America Organization. Chris has been instructing Active shooter Response with ProActive Response Group since 2021.
In his down time, Chris enjoys time with his wife and daughter, as well as watching sports and fishing.
Email: ctaylor@proactiverg.com
Phone: 864-979-0978
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-taylor-331b00150/
Tyrie Fowler is an Active Shooter Response instructor at Proactive Response Group and an Emergency Medicine Trauma Nurse at Prisma Health in Greenville. A Greenville native, Tyrie earned his Exercise Science degree from the University of South Carolina and his nursing degree from Mary Black School of Nursing. He joined Greenville Health System in 2015, transitioning from Orthopedic Trauma to Emergency Medicine. At Prisma Health, a Level One Trauma Center, he is part of the Trauma Nurse Leader team, with training in Advanced Trauma Care (ATCN) and Tactical Emergency Casualty Care (TECC). Tyrie is pursuing certifications in Emergency Nursing (CEN) and Trauma Certified Registered Nurse (TCRN).
Tyrie enjoys Fall for its long runs, college football (Go Gamecocks!), and hunting, including deer and quail. He also loves smoking recipes with a creative twist. As a medical instructor, Tyrie empowers bystanders to provide critical assistance in emergencies, teaching them to control bleeding and manage injuries, ensuring they leave his class confident in making a difference.
Steven J. Anderson is currently an Active Shooter Response Instructor for ProActive Response Group; he enjoys empowering people to survive in life threatening situations. Steve grew up in central Minnesota and spent three years with the United States Army. He graduated from St. Cloud State University with a degree in Criminal Justice. Steve worked as a federal agent for the United States Border Patrol where he was a member of the U.S. Border Patrol Tactical Unit (BORTAC): completing multiple assignments in Central & South America, an assignment with the United Nations and the Deputy Director (A) of the National Air Security Operation Center. In 2020 he retired from working in Federal Law Enforcement.
In his spare time he enjoys the outdoors especially bow hunting. Steve is a proud husband and father to 3 wonderful daughters.
Rob is originally from Louisville, CO. He joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 2003 and served as a Combat Engineer Officer until 2012. Rob deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in 2009 and 2010 where he planned and implemented force protection strategy, counter improvised explosive device operations, and mobility operations for Third Battalion Sixth Marine Regiment and Third Battalion Seventh Marine Regiment . Upon his departure from the military, Rob began to teach firearms and tactics with Arizona based Alpine Arms while simultaneously running his own small residential security consulting firm. Rob relocated the South Carolina in 2021 and joined ProActive Response Group in early 2023.
When not working Rob spends time with his wife Lindsey and son Theo. He enjoys stand up paddle boarding, visiting the rifle range, four wheeling, and camping.
Phone: 720-382-3184
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-christian-29579649/
Andy Sexton spent 12 years with the Greenville County Sheriff’s office in South Carolina, where he held the rank of Uniform Patrol Sergeant. His experience includes serving as an assistant SWAT team leader, involvement in high-risk incidents, including hostage rescues and the protection of dignitaries, working in criminal investigations (including armed robbery and homicide), and serving on the training committee for the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office.
