Meet The Instructors
The instructors at Based Defensive Systems are seasoned professionals with a wealth of knowledge to share with our clients. We help people improve and learn both on and off the range.
Chief Weapon Systems Instructor
Nick Romah
Nick is the Chief Weapon Systems Instructor of Based Defensive Systems. A US Marine, Forward Observer, and a Combat Veteran in the infantry for 3 Tours in Iraq. Now, he is a full-time Pittsburgh City Firefighter and EMT. Nick is also an experienced gunsmith with 15 years of experience in the firearms service and sales industry.
Personal Defense Instructor
Aaron Sutton
Owner and Founder of Based Defensive Systems responsible for designing and building the facilities. Former USAF Officer in the 101st RQS. Aaron is purple in Jiu Jitsu and instructs at 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu in Masury. Decorated collegiate endurance athlete, pilot, entrepreneur, and firearms enthusiast. Aaron a contractor and heavy equipment operator of BDS Development- an excavation and concrete firm.
Technical Advisor
John Stumpff
A picture is worth a thousand words. US Army Sergeant. Outdoor sports enthusiast- hiking, skiing, and biking. John is a Company Level Armorer in the Army. John is the Technical Advisor for Based Defensive Systems and has helped develop curriculum and layout for classes since the beginning.