Homeland Security Training Institute

07/09/2026

Today was a special treat. UFC Hall of Fame Inductee Clay Guida (right of the flag) was in town and stopped by to say hello to the recruits from Basic Police Academy 26-02. Clay is a huge supporter of “all” first responders and shared his thanks to these individuals who are soon to embark on their careers in law enforcement.

It should be noted, my brother, Jon Gorecki (2nd left of the flag), was one of Clay’s first MMA trainers and managers 20yrs ago.

07/01/2026

In celebration of this year's 250th, the recruits from our own SLEA, Basic Academy Class 26-02, setup these U.S. flags outside the College of DuPage, Robert J. Miller, Homeland Education Center. Happy Birthday, America...!!

06/02/2026

One day class on "Close Quarter Drone (CQD) Tactics", June 22, 2026.

This course provides comprehensive training on the tactical deployment of drones in various operational environments. Participants will learn about different drone models, essential accessories, and controller options to optimize performance. The course covers drone use in outdoor and indoor settings, including yard-to-yard searches, felony vehicle stops, and room-clearing tactics. Special focus is given to integrating drones with tactical teams, suspect engagement strategies, and hostage rescue scenarios. Through practical exercises, students will gain hands-on experience in using drones for reconnaissance, threat assessment, and operational support in high-risk situations. This class is for law enforcement only.

Prerequisite requirement: Taken FAA UAV Part 107 and successfully passed, and have flight experience.

Follow the link for more information:

Dedicated to providing engaging and dynamic educational programs, the Homeland Security Training Institute (HSTI) offers specialized training tailored for individuals in law enforcement, fire science, first responders, and corporate security personnel.

05/07/2026

One day class on "NIST Drone Certification", May 28, 2026.

HSTI offers an official NIST drone pilot certification day built on nationally recognized testing standards developed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology. This program is administered through Certified Law Enforcement Drone Association (LEDA) proctors.

These hands-on courses challenge pilots to complete structured flight lanes while capturing precise aerial imagery with zero errors. Those who pass will receive a nationally recognized LEDA Flight Skills certificate and patch, valid for one year.

Second attempt day will be provided.

Available Certifications:
-LEDA Flight Skills 1 - Position and traverse lanes
-LEDA Flight Skills 2 - Position, traverse, orbit, inspect and recon

Why Should Your Agency Certify?

-Improve safety: Standardized testing ensures pilots can operate safely in complex, high-risk environments.
-Objective performance metrics: Measure, track and validate pilot skill progression with repeatable standards.
-Reduce liability: Documented training based on national standards strengthens your program’s defensibility and provides a baseline benchmark for pilot proficiency.
-Increase operational effectiveness: Pilots trained in realistic scenarios perform better during critical incidents and are familiar with common movement commands used during flight.

Additional Reminders:

-Certification is limited to law enforcement, fire departments and emergency management agencies.
-Pilots must fly their own drone.
-No large drone platforms. DJI M30 or smaller only; no Matrice 350, 400 or similar models.
-Available certifications include LEDA Flight Skills 1 and LEDA Flight Skills 2.
-Passing scores earn a certificate and patch for each course, valid for one year.

Follow the link for more information:

Dedicated to providing engaging and dynamic educational programs, the Homeland Security Training Institute (HSTI) offers specialized training tailored for individuals in law enforcement, fire science, first responders, and corporate security personnel.

05/07/2026

One day class on "Advanced Drone Payload Operations", May 26, 2026.

This fast-paced class combines lecture, hands-on labs, and scenario-based exercises. Participants will use College owned, payload equipped drones to simulate missions.

A practical course designed for Emergency Responders and Law Enforcement drone operators covering both rescue and "red-team" deployment.
We will explore both legitimate and malicious applications of payload-equipped drones that will better prepare the student for real-life situations.
Designed for professionals responsible for rescue, event security, correctional facilities, and sensitive locations.

Prerequisite requirements: UAV Part 107 Pilot, 1+ years of flying experience

Key learning outcomes

-Payload Identification: Identify common and emerging payload types and their lawful uses.
-Threat Assessment: Recognize indicators of nefarious payload employment and probable intent.
-Field Exercises: Conduct and debrief practical field scenarios based on real-world incidents.
-Operational Tactics: Conduct different payload delivery methods for SAR and LE drone operators.

Follow the link for more information:

Dedicated to providing engaging and dynamic educational programs, the Homeland Security Training Institute (HSTI) offers specialized training tailored for individuals in law enforcement, fire science, first responders, and corporate security personnel.

04/22/2026

Our pilot Vehicle Takedowns class was today, along with the creative measures involved to acquaint students with shooting at an extreme downward angle, in the effort to avoid collateral damage within a targeted vehicle.

Be as safe as you can out there!