College of DuPage offers concealed carry class

College of DuPage's Homeland Security Training Institute has added a new concealed carry class designed to meet and surpass Illinois state requirements for obtaining a Concealed Carry License.

This 18-hour class, which will offer its first two-day session on Saturday, Sept. 20, and Sunday, Sept. 21, will cover all elements of state-required training, including basic principles of marksmanship; care, cleaning, loading and unloading of a concealable firearm; firearm safety; state and federal laws relating to ownership, storage, carry and transport of a firearm; and weapon and handling and legal qualification.

In addition, students will gain hands-on experience through the use of a state-of-the-art concealed carry firearm simulator and the Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement System inside the four-dimensional immersion "street scene" within the Homeland Security Education Center.

"The comprehensive training at COD offers real-life simulations and training exercises designed to offer applicants crucial decision-making skills that may save lives," said Tom Brady, associate dean of Continuing Education and the Homeland Security Education Center.

"This simulated practice emphasizes safety, preparedness and responsible firearm ownership and sets an even higher standard for training than is required by the Concealed Carry Act."

The class will be led by certified concealed carry instructor and distinguished firearm expert Michelle Quesada. Quesada has trained at Fort Benning with the U.S. Army Rangers and the U.S. Air Force Pistol Service Teams, and is recognized through the National Rifle Association as a Double Distinguished Expert Marksman, shooting more than 600 perfect rounds in one day to complete her first Distinguished award.

In addition, Quesada is NRA-certified to teach basic pistol and personal protection inside and outside the home and has held the NRA appointment of chief range safety officer.

To attend the class, students must be 21 or older, possess a valid Firearm Owner Identification card, a valid Illinois state I.D. or driver's license, and be physically capable of safely and effectively operating a firearm.

To ease the Illinois CCL application process, electronic fingerprints and a digital photo will be offered to participants for an additional cash only $60 fee.

For details on the CCL class, contact www.cod.edu/news-events/news/14_august/14_concealandcarry.aspx.