Defensive Firearms and Personal Safety Training
The Way Forward Training offers defensive firearms, mindset, and personal safety training created to bring responsible citizens the training they need to perform under pressure, protecting themselves physically, legally, and psychologically. Our training is dedicated to providing comprehensive solutions designed to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to confidently handle challenging situations. I take pride in my unique approach to training, focusing on technique and the mental and legal aspects of personal safety. Discover how our training programs can empower you to navigate the complexities of self-defense effectively.
Matt McGuire
Founder, Lead Instructor
Matt is a United States Marine Corps service-disabled veteran who has dedicated his life to pursuing martial studies. Prior to the Marine Corps Matt studied martial arts from the age of 7 and worked for 2 years as a Martial Arts instructor for a school-aged martial arts program. He also spent that time as a student, training in Muay Thai, Boxing, Kali-Escrima and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Matt started shooting competitively after leaving the Marine Corps in 2011 and through 2013 competed in USPSA, IDPA and 3 Gun.
He has over 1300 hours of professional training from some of the most highly regarded instructors in the industry including Mike Pannone, Aaron Cowan, Scott Jedlinski (as a student, RSO/AI and Assistant Instructor), Bill Blowers, Jared Reston, Kerry Davis, Steve Fischer, Rob and Matt Haught, Riley Bowman, Ridgeline Defense, Keith Garcia, Tim Herron, Hunter Freeland, as well as Mike Green and many others. Matt is also a Modern Samurai Project endorsed Red Dot Pistol Instructor, a Range Master Certified instructor through Tom Givens and has been teaching with Green Ops since 2020.
From 2018 to 2020 Matt worked as the customer service representative, Quality Control and Law Enforcement sales representative for Sons of Liberty Gun Works. Matt is also a certified AR-15 Armorer.
Matt's focus is on the performance use of firearms for civilians in defensive roles helping new shooters develop strong mindsets, efficient technique, enhanced self-awareness and confidence.
Lindsay McGuire
Co-Founder/Manager
Lindsay McGuire is a U.S. Air Force veteran and business manager who blends leadership, operational expertise, and innovation. With 12 years of military service, she developed skills in strategy, discipline, and teamwork that now guide her in business and technology.
Today, Lindsay works at the intersection of business management, VR/immersive technology solutions, and administrative support, helping organizations integrate cutting-edge tools while ensuring smooth day-to-day operations. She is passionate about building strong teams, cultivating relationships, and creating environments where people feel empowered to succeed.
Beyond her professional roles, Lindsay is dedicated to personal growth, community involvement, and family. She continues to support entrepreneurial ventures alongside her husband, advances immersive technology in education and training, and champions a balanced, purpose-driven lifestyle.
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Antony Straus
Business Development/Assistant Instructor
Antony is a Military Veteran with eight and a half years of honorable service in the United States Army, including multiple overseas deployments. He is an experienced Parachute Infantryman with a proven record of leadership in high-pressure environments, recognized with the Purple Heart, Combat Infantry Badge, and numerous service awards. He has experience in precision rifle training, tactical operations, and emergency medical response. His strengths are time management, reliability, and critical thinking. He is pursuing a degree at Pace University in digital forensics and security, and currently works as a venture capitalist, assisting entrepreneurs in realizing their business goals.
