In this article, Avery Skipalis continues the series called “Women Who Carry.” In this second installment, she interviews Kim R, a data analyst who has chosen to carry concealed while at work. Find out why, below.
As stated in the first article in this series, all professions have some risk associated with them. In this post, Kim R. answers questions regarding incorporating personal protection in her personal and professional life.
1. What is your profession, and how long have you been in that profession?
I’m a data analyst who has been in this field for over 15 years. A person in my line of work can work in a variety of different settings, from healthcare and marketing to criminal justice. Some of these positions take place in an office, while some are remote or even traveling.
2. What motivated you to start carrying a firearm for personal defense?
The increase in crime rates in my city left me with a general feeling of insecurity while in various settings. That prompted me to pursue concealed carry and utilize a concealed carry firearm.
3. How does carrying a firearm affect your daily routine or mindset at work?
When possessing a firearm, I must be more mindful of my attire. Also, I consider the company policy of the offices I visit for client meetings. Depending on the company policy, there may be times when possessing a firearm on company property is forbidden. I always maintain situational awareness, regardless of my current location.
4. What types of defensive shooting or situational awareness training do you find most valuable?
To get my license, I participated in a concealed carry course and attended an indoor range for a beginner’s firearms training course. Honestly, I wasn’t sure this was for me because the range portion was loud and frightening, and I was unclear on what was truly happening. But I did not give up. In my quest to locate a new instructor, I came upon Avery from Skip’s Tactical Solutions. That encounter wholly altered my life. I quickly registered for several private instruction classes and a firearm purchasing consultation to ensure that I maintain my confidence and proficiency.
5. What challenges have you faced as a woman who carries a firearm?
Professionally, I have not encountered many challenges, if any, because I do not discuss personal things such as concealed carry in professional settings. A significant hurdle I faced was locating a comfortable on-body holster. Additionally, many of my friends and family members are surprised when they learn that I carry a concealed firearm. (Editor’s note: If you, like Kim, are struggling with an aspect of concealed carry, be sure to check out Avery’s previous post titled “Concealed Carry Tips.”)
6. How do you stay current with firearm training and defensive skills?
I stay current by making my training a priority. I prioritize monthly time to meet with my instructor for private one-on-one training to hone my abilities and knowledge. I stick to my commitment to staying consistent with my training and skill development.
7. What advice would you give other women considering carrying firearms for personal defense in personal and professional settings?
I would advise any woman who finds herself feeling afraid of firearms or feels unprepared, uneasy or unsure of where to begin not to let fear prevent her from taking the first step of getting educated on personal protection. Instead, she should find an instructor who suits her and will help her no matter how small or big her goals may be. Finding the right instructor can make a world of difference! It can help her feel secure, confident and safe while she’s learning how to use a firearm.
8. What resources or communities have you found helpful as a woman who carries a firearm?
Some communities I found helpful and highly recommend are Women’s Outdoor News, Firearm Policy Coalition, Skips Tactical Solutions and Gun Owners of America.
As someone new to the firearms community, Kim quickly pivoted to find the spaces and places she felt most comfortable. I commend her for sticking with it and prioritizing her safety in the workplace and beyond.
Avery Skipalis is the owner of Skip’s Tactical Solutions, an organization that focuses on empowering women, men and children to make sure that no one else becomes a victim. She gained her firearms experience from the military where she’s been a military firearms instructor for 10.5 years. She’s also a certified NRA rifle and pistol instructor and Glock Advanced Armorer since 2015. She’s attended Sig Sauer Academy, FNH, Special Operations Command Armorers courses as well as multiple Advanced Shooting Schools across the United States. She resides in Florida with her husband and 2 kids. She’s currently serving in the United States Air Force and loves sharing her passion with others. She thinks it’s important that women also feel like they’re in control of their own safety. View all posts by Avery Skipalis
