Critical Defense Group
Eric "Mac" Mackinzie is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and the founder of Critical Defense Group, bringing over 30 years of professional experience to his role as lead instructor. His background is highlighted by four years as a high-threat protection specialist for the U.S. Department of State as a private military contractor, where he served at one of the most frequently attacked regional embassies in Basra, Iraq. With certifications spanning military, federal, and state agencies, Mac ensures that every course at Critical Defense Group is rooted in proven, life-saving methodologies and real-world tactical excellence.
Companies We Have Trained
- GEICO
- WestRock
- Higginbotham
- FastSigns
- BuzzBallz
- Rockwall County
- Kickapoo Lucky Eagle Casino Hotel
- Mesquite Police Department
- Business Jet
- AHI Facility Services
- Pottsboro Independent School District
- Rains Independent School District
- Lone Oak Independent School District
- Wylie Police Department
- Mooring USA
- United Debt Counselors
- The Pediatric Care Center
- National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame
- Grace Church
- Firewheel Christian Academy
- Family Fellowship Greenville
- Metrocrest Community Church
- First Baptist Church Mabank
- Waterview Church of Christ
- Faith Bible Church
- C&C
- Brown Street Church of Christ
- Greenville Christian School
- Howe Church of Christ
- The Church in Denton
- Texas Tactical Police Officers Association
Qualifications & Certifications
- Texas DPS School Safety Instructor Certification Course
- Texas Commission of PSB Level 2, 3 & Personal Protection Officer Certification
- Texas DPS CHL Instructor Certification
- WPS DOS BFOC Train the Trainer Instructor Course Recertification, Triple Canopy, Inc
- WPPS DOS DSTC Defensive Tactics and Room Entry Techniques
- WPPS DOS Certification M-4, G-19, 870, M-240, M-249 & M203, Triple Canopy, Inc
- WPPS DOS BFOC Train the Trainer Instructor Course, Triple Canopy, Inc
- WPPS DOS Train the Trainer Instructor Certification Course, Triple Canopy, Inc
- WPPS DOS Personal Protective Services Certification Course, Triple Canopy, Inc
- Motorcade Defensive Driving Course, Bill Scott Racing
- California Carry Concealed Certification Course, Riverside County Sheriff
- Protective Specialist Security & Selection Course, Triple Canopy, Inc
- Defensive Driving Course, Beaver Run Racing School
- Level 4 Hand Gun & Advanced Weapons Skills, Direct Action Group
- Instructor Course for Immediate Contact, Force on Force, Direct Action Group
- Instructor Course for Overseas Operator, Direct Action Group
- High-Risk Warrant, CQB & Entry Course, Tactical Explosive Entry School
- Instructor Development Weapons Course, Tactical Firearms Training Team
- Explosive Handlers & Entry Course, Tactical Explosive Entry School
- Firearms Initial Qualification Course, Bureau of Security Services
- PR 24 Baton Basic & Advanced Course, Bureau of Security Services
- Powers to Arrest & Lethal Use of Force, Bureau of Security Services
- Two-Man Team Tactics, Tactical Firearms Training Team
- VIP Protection Course Level 1 & 2, Tactical Firearms Training Team
- Combat Shotgun & Optical Rifle, Tactical Firearms Training Team
- Advanced Weapons Skills & Tactical Rifle, Tactical Firearms Training Team
- Level 1,2,3 Handgun, Tactical Firearms Training Team
- Glock Armors School, Glock, Inc
- U.S. Army Airborne School, U.S. Army
- USMC & USMCR Veteran 1st & 3rd ANGLICO 1988-1996
Our Company: Veteran-Owned & Texas-Based
Critical Defense Group is a veteran-owned safety consultancy based in Texas. We specialize in transforming high-threat security principles into practical corporate safety solutions.
Our mission is to bridge the gap between emergency preparedness and the boardroom. We serve businesses on-site throughout the state of Texas and nationally online, providing the expertise needed to navigate modern threats.
From High-Threat to Hometown Safety
Founded in 2012 by Eric "Mac" Mackinzie, our company was born from a desire to share life-saving knowledge. After years of protecting U.S. diplomats in hostile environments like Iraq, Mac realized that domestic organizations were often woefully unprepared for violence.
He shifted focus from personal safety instruction to comprehensive vulnerability assessments for organizations, ensuring everyday workplaces are as secure as possible through prevention and planning.
Awareness Over Intimidation
We believe true security comes from awareness. That's why we focus on education and policy, helping HR directors and business owners build resilience through a culture of safety rather than a third-party security team.
Our approach is designed for the professional environment. We ensure your staff feels supported and empowered after any of our training presentations, whether online or in person.
Trusted Community Partners
We have earned the trust of diverse organizations across Texas. Our portfolio includes major entities like GEICO and WestRock, as well as local institutions like the Rockwall County government and school districts in Pottsboro and Rains.
We offer the same great corporate safety services to any company, from casinos and hotels to churches and nonprofits. We are proud to be a trusted partner in protecting the infrastructure and people of our local communities.
Training Based on Survival, Not Theory
As a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and former private military contractor, Mac protected diplomats and assets in some of the world's most volatile environments.
He now applies those tested strategies to help businesses protect their facilities and people. Mac translates high-threat safety principles into practical safety protocols for the modern workplace.
Tested & Proven Emergency Readiness
During his four years in Basra, Iraq, Mac served at the most frequently attacked U.S. embassy in history.
True safety requires protocols that work when adrenaline spikes – when the only fact on the ground is chaos.
Mac teaches proactive measures based on survival and proven application. His background ensures your organization relies on the same training that is part of the reason he is still alive today.
Education & Planning That Empowers
Some trainers will only help you meet compliance. We go beyond that to help your workers establish a genuine culture of safety. Our training empowers your staff to recognize behavioral indicators and respond effectively to threats.
We can also review existing policies at your company to ensure they withstand real-world scenarios. This approach creates a secure environment without intimidation, focusing on awareness and administrative preparedness rather than brute force.
Why We're Trusted
Mac has trained hundreds of personnel from military, government, and law enforcement agencies worldwide. He currently serves on the Emergency Response Group leadership team for community organizations in Texas.
His qualifications include Texas DPS School Safety Instructor Certification and extensive Department of State protective service credentials. He combines his regulatory knowledge with on-the-ground expertise to serve corporations in all industries.
Put Your People First
Don't wait for a crisis to evaluate your company's readiness. Schedule training to identify vulnerabilities and empower your staff today.
