Gene Petrino spent nearly three decades in law enforcement, serving as a SWAT Commander, Team Leader, and instructor responsible for high-risk operations and critical incident leadership. Today, he teaches schools and professional workplaces how to stay aware, composed, and effective in everyday environments. His approach is straightforward, calm, and grounded in practical experience.

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Why I Do This

During my years in SWAT, I noticed something repeating. Most incidents did not turn dangerous suddenly. They developed slowly, often with clear signs that were missed. The real gap was not equipment or response plans. It was awareness, stress control, and decision-making.

I started Survival Response to teach those skills to everyday staff. The goal is simple: help people notice early, stay composed, and act with confidence before a situation escalates. Calm people make better decisions, and better decisions prevent harm.

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How I Teach

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• No fear messaging

• No intimidation

• No tactical theatrics

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The training is conversational and practical. Participants learn how to observe their environment, understand behavioral cues, communicate clearly, and choose deliberate actions. Everything fits normal workplaces, classrooms, and public environments.

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Credentials

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• Retired SWAT Commander

• Certified Protection Professional (CPP)

• M.A. Security Management

• B.A. Criminology

• Graduate, Command Officer Development Course, University of Louisville

• Graduate, FBI LEEDA Leadership Trilogy

• Trainer for educators, office teams, healthcare staff, and public safety professionals

• Contributor to national media on awareness and workplace safety

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Who I Work With

• Private and charter schools

• Professional office teams

• Community organizations and service providers

Each training is tailored to the culture and stress patterns of the environment. The focus is confidence, clarity, and early recognition.