About A.U.FIRE
At A.U.FIRE (Accuracy Under Fire), we are dedicated to advancing the realism and effectiveness of tactical training. Our product is designed to push the boundaries of traditional training by simulating the stress and intensity of real-world scenarios.
Meet the Team
Tim Pearce Founder
Introducing Tim, a former Los Angeles Police Department gang officer and gang detective who has transitioned into product innovation, focusing on tactical training products. With deep law enforcement experience, Tim created A.U.FIRE (Accuracy Under Fire), a cutting-edge GSW training simulator for worst-case scenarios.
Tim's journey began after his wife, Kristina Ripatti, also his former patrol and gang unit partner, was shot and paralyzed. Inspired by this tragedy and her physical therapy, Tim developed a gunshot wound simulator using repurposed TENS unit/E-Stim muscle contracting technology in wearable garments.
Seeking improvement and armed with creativity, Tim started developing officer safety products while still working as a gang officer. With nearly 20 years in law enforcement, he saw areas needing improvement and took it upon himself to drive change, creating several inventions to enhance officer safety.
A.U.FIRE replicates the physical and mental challenges of sustaining severe injuries. Through simulated incapacitation, trainees learn to fight distractions, maintain accuracy, and apply self-tourniquets under duress. A.U.FIRE aims to build resilience, stress inoculation, and confidence in worst-case scenarios.
In addition to A.U.FIRE, Tim created other products, including an auto-activation gun holster that triggers body cameras, an unpickable handcuff design, a swivel belt-clip for public safety radios, a double-duty ammo pouch, the Phone Flipper, and CrutchKeepers.
Tim Pearce's expertise and innovative solutions have revolutionized law enforcement training. A.U.FIRE and his range of products are set to significantly impact tactical training and officer safety. Tim's dedication to saving lives and enhancing law enforcement and military capabilities underscores his commitment to excellence.
Rick Guilbault Vice President
Rick retired from the Sacramento Police Department in 2004 at the rank of sergeant after 24 years of service. His assignments included Field Training Officer, SWAT Team Operator, Patrol Sergeant, Academy Commander, In-Service Training Supervisor, and SWAT Team Leader. He is a certified instructor in use of force, chemical agents, firearms, crowd control, remote restraint devices and a variety of non-lethal weapons. He has taught over 300 courses at both the basic academy and in-service levels.
From 2004 – 2014, Rick was the Vice President of Training and Education for TASER International. He founded the TASER Training Academy which trained over 10,000 law enforcement trainers, investigators, technicians and executives annually. Rick provided TASER training and presentations to groups throughout the United States, Canada, Europe, Africa, Asia, South and Central America, Australia and New Zealand. He has presented training in 27 countries and trained law enforcement and military personnel from 31 countries.
Rick was the Vice President of Business Development for Ti Training from 2015 – 2018, and the Vice President of Training for Wrap Technologies from 2018 – 2021. Rick has published numerous articles on non-lethal weapons tactics and training. He has qualified in both federal and state courts as an expert witness in law enforcement training and use of force and has provided testimony at trial and in deposition in 40 cases in the United States and Canada.
He earned his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and his Master of Public Policy and Administration degree from California State University, Sacramento. Rick is currently the owner of Force Strategies, LLC.
Jared Koohestani Operations
Jared is a seasoned operations and training expert with a distinguished career spanning the military, private sector security, and the simulation industry. With a foundation built on close to a decade of service in the U.S. Marine Corps, where he honed leadership, tactical acumen, and a steadfast commitment to mission accomplishment, Jared transitioned into high-stakes security roles in Eastern Europe and The Middle East.
Jared’s career trajectory naturally evolved into the realm of simulation technology, where he has excelled in developing and implementing innovative training solutions for military and law enforcement agencies.
As the founder of “The Champion’s Path,” he has successfully synthesized research and training education concepts to paint a comprehensive picture between technology and human performance, driving the adoption of virtual simulation across diverse sectors. Jared’s proven track record in program management, client relationship building, and quality assurance makes him a valuable asset to any team.
Jared brings a unique blend of operational expertise, strategic thinking, and technical proficiency to AUFire.
Jim Ramos VP Sales & Marketing
Jim brings over 35 years of sales, marketing and product development experience including the past 23 years in the simulation, scenario and live training market for police, military and security agencies in North America and overseas.
Jeff Ehasz Operations Project Manager
Jeff is a retired Certified Police Officer in Ohio with extensive expertise as an instructor in Use of Force, Firearms, Defensive Tactics, Physical Conditioning, and active shooter training. He has developed fitness tests for police tactical teams and SWAT units, as well as secured training venues for first responders. A Senior Instructor and Program Specialist, Jeff has conducted TSA training for Homeland Security and helped develop counter-terrorism programs. He is also a Certified Personal Trainer and has led numerous police fitness and active shooter training programs.