Check Out Mark Schneider’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Mark Schneider.

Hi Mark, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I started in security back in 2008 as an unarmed guard and worked my way up through the ranks, including time as a PSO under Homeland Security. In 2018, I launched Concealed Carry Classes of Denver (CCCD) to fill a gap I saw in firearms training—too many people were getting permits without truly understanding the law or how to handle a firearm under stress.

Since then, CCCD has become my flagship training program, focused on real-world, law-based instruction for CCW holders and security professionals. I also serve as a Training Manager and Lieutenant for a large nationwide security company based in Denver, where I oversee team training, licensing, and compliance.

In 2024, I expanded by launching the U.S. Firearms Training Academy, and now I’m preparing to open a second CCCD classroom in North Metro Denver. The demand for serious, responsible firearms training keeps growing—and I’m proud to be meeting that need.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Definitely not a smooth road—but that’s part of what makes the journey worth it. Like a lot of small business owners, I’ve faced challenges with funding, growth, and just getting people to take firearms training seriously. I also started a security company in 2018, but COVID made it almost impossible to find reliable staff or maintain contracts, and I had to shut it down.

Even with CCCD, I’ve had to build everything from the ground up—curriculum, licensing, relationships, and reputation. There were long days, slow months, and setbacks along the way. But every obstacle taught me something—about leadership, patience, and the importance of staying mission-focused.

Now, with CCCD growing and a second classroom on the horizon, I can look back and see those struggles as stepping stones. They forced me to get sharper, work harder, and never settle.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Professionally, I wear a few hats—but they all revolve around training and responsibility. I’m a certified firearms instructor, founder of Concealed Carry Classes of Denver (CCCD), and the Training Manager and Lieutenant for a nationwide security company’s Denver branch. I specialize in concealed carry education, legal use-of-force training, and preparing both civilians and security professionals for real-world situations—not just theoretical ones.

What I’m most proud of is the reputation CCCD has built for offering serious, law-focused training that goes beyond the bare minimum. We don’t just hand out certificates—we make sure people understand the law, the gravity of carrying a firearm, and how to act under stress. I’ve trained thousands of students across Colorado, and many of them come back or refer others because they know we don’t cut corners.

What sets me apart is that I’ve actually worked in the field. I’ve stood post, responded to real threats, and managed teams of armed guards. I bring that experience into the classroom—and I break things down in a way that’s practical, relatable, and grounded in the law.

At the end of the day, my goal is to help people become the kind of gun owner or security professional who’s confident, capable, and legally protected.

What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
I grew up in Denver, and I’ve seen the city change a lot over the years—unfortunately, not all for the better. Crime has gone up, drug use is more visible, and there’s a real sense that things aren’t as safe as they used to be. I’ve been in some very serious incidents and dealt with people and situations that would keep most folks up at night. At this point, I’ve just gotten used to it—it comes with the job.

What’s also frustrating is how the laws have shifted, especially around firearms. I’ve seen gun laws become increasingly restrictive in ways that make it harder for the average, law-abiding citizen to protect themselves—while criminals continue to ignore those same laws. That disconnect bothers me.

Still, this is my city. I stay here because I believe in making a difference, and I know there are a lot of people in Denver who feel the same way—people who just want to be safe, prepared, and responsible.

Pricing:

• CCW Class New Applicant – $159.99
• CCW Class Renewal – $109.99
• Armed Security Guard Qual – $199.99
• LEO Taser Class – $174.99
• Pepper Spray Class – Civilians – $99.99

Contact Info:

• Website: https://concealedcarryclassdenver.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/concealedcarryclassesofdenver/#
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/concealedcarryclassdenver
• Twitter: https://x.com/cccdinstructor
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/concealed-carry-classes-of-denver-denver