What are Martial Arts?
Martial arts are various practices and traditions of combat, typically practiced for self-defense, competition, or physical and mental development. Martial arts can include techniques from striking, grappling, and weapon-based fighting styles, and can be practiced as a sport or a form of physical exercise. Different martial arts styles may have different philosophies, training methods, and cultural traditions associated with them. Some popular martial arts styles include karate, taekwondo, judo, jiu-jitsu, kung fu, and boxing, among others.

What is a Martial Arts Instructor?
A martial arts instructor is someone who teaches martial arts techniques and philosophies to students of all ages and skill levels. They have expertise in one or more martial arts styles, and are responsible for creating and leading classes that help students develop their skills in areas such as self-defense, physical fitness, and mental discipline. Martial arts instructors also play a key role in guiding their students towards achieving their goals, building their confidence, and instilling important values such as respect, discipline, and perseverance.

1. What made you want to do the job you have now?
   As a martial arts instructor and school owner, I became interested in martial arts when I was young, after watching martial arts movies. I loved the discipline, fitness, and mental strength that it required. As I continued to train and learn more about it, I found that I wanted to share this passion with others and help them learn and grow in their martial arts skills.
2. Were you interested in martial arts when you were 10 years old?
   Yes, when I was 10 years old, I was already interested in martial arts. I loved watching martial arts movies and trying to do the moves myself. As I got older and started to train in different martial arts styles, I realized how much there was to learn and how much I enjoyed it.
3. Have you ever changed careers?
   Yes, I have changed careers a few times. After working in advertising for many years, I decided that I wanted to pursue a career that was more meaningful to me. That’s when I decided to become a full-time martial arts instructor and eventually opened my own school.
4. What education or training did you need for your job?
   To become a martial arts instructor and school owner, I needed to train and earn black belts in different martial arts styles. In addition, I had to go through a rigorous testing and certification process with the martial arts organization I belong to. I also have a diverse educational background, including studying mechanical engineering and graduating as an art director.
5. How much reading or math do you need for your job?
   I need both reading and math skills to run my business effectively. On the technical side, I use math to manage finances and inventory. On the creative side, I use reading skills to research marketing trends and communicate effectively with my students and their parents.
6. What tools or technology do you use for your job?
   I use administrative software to manage schedules, attendance, and payments. I also use customer relationship management programs to keep track of student progress and communicate with parents. I create and manage my own website, social media accounts, and marketing campaigns using various digital marketing tools.
7. How many hours a day do you work?
   What is your schedule like? I typically work about five hours a day, teaching four classes and managing the day-to-day operations of the school. My schedule can be flexible, but I try to maintain consistency for my students and their families.
8. What is your work environment like? I work in and own a small indoor air-conditioned dojo located in the Kendall area of Miami. The atmosphere inside the dojo is focused and energetic, with students training hard and instructors providing guidance and feedback.
9. Who do you work with and for?
   As a school owner, I work with a team of assistant instructors to ensure that our students receive the best possible education and training.I also work closely with our martial arts organization to ensure that we are following their guidelines and meeting their standards. I consider myself to be working for our students and their families, providing a safe, positive, and engaging learning environment for them.
10. What is the salary range for your job?
    As a martial arts instructor and school owner, I make a good amount of money. The amount of money that I make depends on many things like how many students I have, where my school is, and how much it costs to run my school. Some martial arts school owners can make a lot of money – even six figures – but it takes a lot of work and dedication.

11. What do you like and dislike about your job?
    As a school owner and martial arts instructor, I love being able to share my passion for martial arts with my students and seeing them grow and improve over time. I also enjoy the freedom and autonomy that comes with running my own business. On the other hand, one of the biggest challenges I face is staying organized and managing all the administrative tasks that come with running a school.From managing schedules and payments to handling marketing and promotions, it can be overwhelming at times. Another challenge is finding a good work-life balance. Running a successful martial arts school requires a lot of time and effort, and it can be difficult to find time for personal pursuits and hobbies. However, the rewards of seeing my students succeed and grow in their skills make it all worth it.

12. Describe personality/character traits, talents, abilities, and values a person would have or need to develop to be successful in your career.
    A successful martial arts instructor should have strong communication skills, patience, and a passion for teaching. They should also be physically fit and have strong technical skills in the martial arts they teach. Values like respect, discipline, and perseverance are also important in martial arts instruction.

13. What is an outstanding experience or accomplishment you have had at your job?
    One of the most outstanding experiences in my career as a martial arts instructor and school owner was when I won my first regional championship. It was a culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and discipline, and it was a proud moment for me and my team.

    Another accomplishment I am proud of is being able to work with and learn from some of the greatest martial arts masters and style creators in the world. This has not only improved my skills as a martial artist but has also allowed me to bring new knowledge and techniques back to my school and students.

    In addition, I have had the privilege of working in some of the biggest events in the martial arts industry, including the ISKA U.S. Open World Martial Arts Championships. These experiences have allowed me to showcase my skills on a global level and to network with other top martial artists and industry leaders.

    Lastly, I developed software for martial arts competitions which has been used in many tournaments around the world, helping to improve the accuracy and efficiency of scoring and keeping track of results. This has been a rewarding project for me as it has allowed me to combine my passion for martial arts with my skills in technology.