900 W University Dr Ste C-3, Rochester , MI 48307
About the Concealed Carry Michigan & Home Defense Team
Dedicated Instructors
Rick Billington
Michigan Pistol Academy- Rochester Mi.
Michigan Concealed Pistol Certification Class
Michigan CPL Class Near Rochester, Michigan
“Michigan Pistol Academy is one of Michigan’s top-rated firearm training schools with over 300 5-star USCCA reviews.”
“Train smarter. Train harder. Train for reality.”
– Michigan Pistol Academy
Rick Billington
Founder | Instructor | Personal Defense Expert
Rick Billington is a seasoned expert in personal defense and firearms training, dedicated to equipping individuals with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to protect themselves and their families.
With a background spanning law enforcement, aviation, and corporate leadership, Rick brings a real-world, practical approach to firearms training and personal safety.
Background & Experience
Born and raised in Michigan, Rick began his career in law enforcement, where he served his community while developing expertise in:
- Conflict resolution
- Crisis management
- Personal defense tactics
During his time in law enforcement, he became known for his commitment to public safety and his ability to mentor others. After transitioning into the corporate world, Rick continued to build leadership experience in management roles—while feeling a strong pull back to personal defense and training.
That calling led to the founding of Michigan Pistol Academy.
Michigan Pistol Academy
In 2004, Rick established Michigan Pistol Academy with a clear mission:
To provide professional, practical, and safety-focused firearms training in a supportive environment.
The academy offers structured training for all experience levels—from first-time gun owners to experienced shooters—focusing on:
- Firearm safety
- Marksmanship fundamentals
- Real-world defensive application
- Legal aspects of firearm ownership
Rick’s instruction goes beyond shooting—he builds confidence, awareness, and a defensive mindset in every student.
Professional Edge
Rick’s combined experience sets him apart in the firearms training industry:
- Former law enforcement officer
- Corporate leadership background
- Certified flight instructor and aviation professional
His aviation experience reinforces precision, discipline, and situational awareness—principles he integrates directly into his training programs.
Community & Mission
Rick is committed to promoting responsible gun ownership and personal safety through ongoing community engagement, workshops, and training programs.
He believes:
Everyone has the right to feel safe—and the responsibility to be prepared.
Certifications & Credentials
Rick holds extensive certifications across nationally recognized organizations:
USCCA Certifications
- Concealed Carry and Home Defense Fundamentals
- Women’s Handgun & Self-Defense Fundamentals
- Countering the Mass Shooter Threat
- Children’s Firearms & Safety Fundamentals
- Range Safety Officer
NRA Certifications
- Pistol, Rifle, and Shotgun Instructor
- Personal Protection In The Home
- Personal Protection Outside The Home
- Refuse To Be A Victim
- Chief Range Safety Officer
Additional Credentials
- NRA Life Member
- Member, Firearms Trainers Association
- Member, Michigan Gun Owners
- Michigan ProDefense Advisor
- Court-Ordered Firearms Safety Instructor
- Licensed Michigan Professional Investigator
- Former FAA Certified Flight Instructor (Sheriff’s Office)
- Former Law Enforcement
Continuing Impact
Even in retirement, Rick continues to train and mentor individuals from all walks of life through Michigan Pistol Academy.
His mission remains the same:
To help people become more confident, capable, and prepared—because knowledge and training can make the difference when it matters most.
Mark Cortis
Near Royal-Oak
Certified in the following disciplines:
- NRA Certified Training Counselor
- NRA Basic CCW Instructor
- NRA Certified Pistol
- NRA Personal Protection in the Home
- NRA Personal Protection Outside The Home
- NRA Range Safety Officer
Michigan Concealed Carry Classes
- AR-15 Instructor
- Rifle Instructor
- Shotgun Instructor
- Court Ordered Firearms Safety Classes
- Royal-Oak Location
Scott Stout
Lead Advisor
- Currently a First Responder,
- Police Instructor, and Supervisor,
- Scott is a certified instructor in numerous
- Police and Civilian Disciplines including:
- Firearms Instructor,
- Defensive Driving Instructor,
- Personal Protection
- Home Safety Instructor
- Civilian TASER Instructor.
Scott is also a Force Science Institute Analyst
and expert witness on Use of Force.
Scott Ruel
Instructor
Certified in the following disciplines:
- NRA Basic CCW Instructor
- NRA Personal Protection in the Home
- NRA Personal Protection Outside The Home
- NRA Range Safety Officer
- Michigan Concealed Carry Classes
- Firearms Training and Personal Protection Specialist
- AR-15 Instructor
- Shotgun Instructor
- Court Ordered Firearms Safety Classes
Our Motto
We don’t need more gun control. We need more education.
"When a strong man, fully armed, guards his house, his possessions are safe."
