Today we’d like to introduce you to Tina Slade.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My journey started over 14 years ago when I began learning the fundamentals of firearms and personal defense. What began as a personal pursuit quickly became a passion — not just for shooting, but for empowering others, especially women, to feel confident, capable, and safe in any situation.
Over the years, I trained extensively in tactical firearm use, self-defense, and situational awareness. The deeper I went, the more I realized that many women wanted to learn these same skills, but often felt intimidated in traditional, male-dominated environments. That realization became the spark for Slade Defense — training for women, by women.
I built Slade Defense, Women Tactical Defense to provide a safe, supportive, and professional space where women can learn firearm safety, defensive tactics, and the mindset of preparedness without fear or judgment. Today, I’m proud to see women of all ages walk away from our courses with a new sense of confidence — not just in handling a firearm, but in themselves. That’s what drives everything we do.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road — but that’s what makes it meaningful. Starting a women-led firearms training business in a traditionally male-dominated space came with its share of challenges. Early on, there were people who doubted the idea of women teaching tactical defense or questioned whether there was even a need for it.
Balancing professionalism with the heart and mission behind the work was another challenge — building trust, creating a safe learning environment, and showing that women can excel in this field through skill, knowledge, and confidence.
There were also the logistical struggles that come with starting any business — finding the right locations, building a curriculum that truly empowers women, and making sure every student feels seen, supported, and safe.
But every obstacle reinforced why I started this in the first place. Seeing women step into their power — overcoming fear, mastering new skills, and realizing their own strength — makes every challenge worth it.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Women Tactical Defense was built on a simple but powerful mission — to empower women through preparedness. We provide firearms and tactical defense training designed specifically for women, taught by women, in a safe and supportive environment where learning feels empowering, not intimidating.
What makes us different is our approach. This isn’t just about shooting or checking a box for safety — it’s about mindset, awareness, and confidence. We teach women how to protect themselves, their families, and their peace of mind through hands-on, real-world training that builds both skill and self-assurance.
Over the years, I’ve watched women walk through our doors feeling uncertain or even fearful, and leave with a strength and confidence they didn’t know they had. That transformation — seeing them take ownership of their safety and realize their inner power — is what I’m most proud of.
We specialize in everything from handgun fundamentals to advanced tactical and situational defense training, but at the heart of it all is empowerment. We’re not just training shooters — we’re building strong, capable, and confident women who are prepared for life.
Our brand stands for strength, skill, and sisterhood. It’s more than a class — it’s a movement reminding women that they are powerful, capable, and enough.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
Yes — I want every woman reading this to know that you are stronger and more capable than you realize. Whether it’s learning to defend yourself, stepping into something new, or facing a fear — confidence comes from action, and growth begins the moment you decide to take that first step.
At Women Tactical Defense, our mission isn’t just to teach firearm skills — it’s to help women reclaim their confidence, trust their instincts, and stand in their power. You don’t have to have experience to start — you just have to be willing.
I truly believe that when women feel safe and confident, it changes everything — how we show up for ourselves, our families, and our communities. That’s what drives everything we do, and I’m honored to be part of that journey for so many incredible women.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.womentacticaldefense.com
- Instagram: @womentactical
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkdin.com/sladedefense
