John Ferreira
Instructor # 3789724 | Thrive With Martin!
Certified with the USCCA since 12/31/2024
Certification Renewal Date 12/31/2026
USCCA Certifications
- Concealed Carry & Home Defense
- Children's Firearms & Safety Fundamentals
- Women's Handgun & Self-Defense
- Range Safety Officer
- Emergency & First Aid
My Biography
Martin Ferreira – USCCA Certified Instructor
With over 40 years of experience in martial arts instruction, I have dedicated my career to teaching self-defense, situational awareness, and personal protection strategies. As the owner and head instructor of White Dragon of East County, I have trained countless individuals in practical self-defense techniques, helping them build confidence, discipline, and resilience.
I am the creator of Sifu Ferreira’s Joint Locking Video Series, which has been used by martial artists and self-defense practitioners to enhance their grappling and control skills. Additionally, I serve as the Director of Women’s Self-Defense Seminars at White Dragon of East County, empowering women with the knowledge and skills to protect themselves effectively.
My expertise has led me to lecture for organizations such as the Department of Justice, San Diego County Court Reporters, Women in Law, and Sempra Energy, where I have provided training on self-defense, situational awareness, and violence prevention.
Beyond martial arts, I hold certifications as a Personal Fitness Instructor (#65533408) and a Neuroscience Coach (25-00524 by Holistic), integrating physical and mental conditioning to optimize performance and personal safety.
For 20 years, I owned and operated a firearms shop, providing responsible gun owners with education on firearm safety, handling, and legal considerations. My deep understanding of defensive tactics, combined with my extensive firearms experience, led me to become a USCCA Certified Instructor in December 2024.
Through my USCCA certification, I am committed to educating responsible gun owners on self-defense laws, firearm safety, and personal protection strategies, ensuring they are well-prepared to safeguard themselves and their loved ones.
To learn more about my background and training philosophy, visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/martin-ferreira-31524810/
Current Classes Available
Request a Class
This Class will start with teaching awareness and avoidance then will transition to less than lethal options and a intro to basic hand gun familiarization . We will also cover Home safety and hardiness.
This will be Introduction to basic firearm safety, handling ,loading and familiarization with handguns . This will be a great class for those who are looking to purchase their first hand gun or for those who want to feel more confident with handguns in general
This is a EMSA approved for child care providers , OSHA compliant, USCG STCW approved . American Heart association certification upon completion.
The Best Way to prevent Accidents is Through Education.
Introduction This class is designed to equip participants with life-saving skills to control severe bleeding. In today's world, rapid response to trauma can mean the difference between life and death. From accidents to acts of violence, understanding how to manage bleeding effectively is essential for everyone—bystanders, first responders, and community members alike.
Why is Bleeding Control Important? Severe bleeding is a leading cause of preventable death worldwide. Immediate intervention with bleeding control techniques can significantly increase survival rates. With violence, accidents, and natural disasters becoming more prevalent, having the skills to respond promptly is crucial—even by those with no medical background.
Learning Objectives
Understand the physiology of bleeding and the risks associated with uncontrolled bleeding Demonstrate proper use of compression techniques Learn how to pack wounds effectively Apply tourniquets safely and correctly Recognize when and why to use each method Course Outline
- Introduction to Bleeding and Emergency Response (20 minutes)
Overview of the impact of bleeding in trauma Safety precautions The "Stop the Bleed" concept and its importance Responsibilities of bystanders and first responders 2. Compression Techniques (40 minutes)
Types of bleeding that require compression Demonstration of direct pressure application Using hands and pads effectively Practice exercises in small groups Common mistakes and how to avoid them 3. Wound Packing (30 minutes)
When to pack a wound Materials needed for packing Step-by-step packing procedure Practice with simulators or bandage materials Ensuring proper pressure and containment 4. Tourniquet Application (30 minutes)
Indications for tourniquet use Types of tourniquets and their components Proper placement above the injury site Tightening and securing techniques Risks and precautions Hands-on practice sessions 5. Integrating Skills and Scenarios (20 minutes)
Combining compression, packing, and tourniquet use Realistic scenario practice Decision-making in emergency situations 6. Summary and Q&A (10 minutes)
Recap of key skills Addressing participant questions Resources for further learning Conclusion This class emphasizes the importance of quick, correct action in bleeding emergencies. By mastering compression, wound packing, and tourniquet application, participants can significantly improve outcomes for trauma victims. These skills are vital in today’s unpredictable environment, empowering everyone to be a life-saving first responder.
CPR/AED Training Class (2 Hours)
Course Overview: This 2-hour CPR/AED training course is designed to equip participants with the essential knowledge and hands-on skills needed to respond effectively in cardiac and breathing emergencies. Through guided instruction and practical application, attendees will learn how to recognize cardiac arrest, perform high-quality CPR, and properly use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) until professional medical help arrives.
What You’ll Learn:
The chain of survival and early recognition of cardiac emergencies
Proper techniques for adult, child, and infant CPR
Safe and effective use of an AED
How to assist a choking victim
Scene safety and emergency response procedures
Who Should Attend: This class is ideal for workplace teams, community members, teachers, coaches, parents, and anyone who wants to be prepared to save a life in an emergency. No prior medical experience is required.
Duration: 2 Hours
The Value and Need for CPR/AED Training: Every year, hundreds of thousands of people experience cardiac arrest outside of a hospital setting. Immediate CPR and early AED use can double or even triple a person’s chance of survival. Unfortunately, many bystanders hesitate to act due to a lack of training or confidence. This class empowers participants to take action with knowledge, confidence, and skill—turning ordinary individuals into lifesavers. By investing just two hours, you can gain the ability to make a life-changing difference in your home, workplace, or community.
Children's & Youth Rifle Camp
Dates: July 27–31 Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM
Join us for an exciting week of hands-on outdoor education, firearms safety, and practical life skills! This camp is designed to help children and youth build confidence, responsibility, and respect while learning in a safe, structured environment under qualified instruction.
Throughout the week, campers will receive comprehensive instruction in the safe handling and operation of .22 caliber rifles, including pump-action, semi-automatic, lever-action, and bolt-action firearms. Students will practice on the range daily, developing safe shooting habits, marksmanship fundamentals, and firearm responsibility.
In addition to daily range time, campers will participate in hands-on training in:
CPR and basic First Aid Bleeding control techniques Land navigation using maps and compasses Basic fishing skills Fire-starting techniques Outdoor safety and survival fundamentals
The camp concludes on Friday with a trip to a local lake, where campers will enjoy a day of fishing and have the opportunity to demonstrate many of the outdoor skills they have learned throughout the week.
Whether your child is new to shooting sports or looking to build on existing skills, this camp offers a fun, educational, and memorable experience focused on safety, teamwork, and outdoor adventure.


