Title:
Lead Faculty, School of Firearms Technology
Highest degree and school:
MBA, Healthcare Administration, American Military University
Teaching at SDI since: 2023
Ken Clarke started teaching for the School of Firearms Technology at the start of 2023 before being promoted to Lead Faculty at the end of 2024. His courses include the core class Firearms Inspection and Troubleshooting, the electives Modern Sporting Rifle and Developing a Business Plan, and the Handgun Specialist certificate courses in Revolvers and Striker-Fired Pistols. A native of North Carolina and a 21-year veteran of the US Air Force, Ken holds an MBA with a specialization in Healthcare Administration from the American Military University.
Ken says he chose to work for SDI because “I have always had a passion for teaching/mentorship and firearms, and when the opportunity to join SDI arose, it felt like the perfect fit. The chance to share my knowledge and enthusiasm with others in such a respected institution is truly a dream come true for me. I’m excited to inspire and educate the next generation of firearms enthusiasts.” In his current role as Lead Faculty, Ken enjoys interacting and building connections with both students and staff, which he finds incredibly rewarding: “It’s fulfilling to hear the positive feedback from students about their experiences with our programs, knowing that I play a part in their growth and learning journey.”
Ken’s vision of a perfect day involves immersion in nature: “Whether it’s hiking through a nearby national forest, fishing on a tranquil lake, or even casting a line in the ocean, I find joy and peace in the outdoors. There’s something truly rejuvenating about being surrounded by nature’s beauty.” Ken’s passion for knowledge applies to his own learning as well, where he harbors an interest in astrophysics. As he describes it, “The mysteries of the universe and our place within it fascinate me, and I’m eager to explore the fundamental questions that surround space, time, and existence. I believe there’s so much to learn that could profoundly expand our understanding of the cosmos.”