Meet the Owners

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 Peter Pulizzi is a co-founder of Vincere Defense, bringing his background in criminology, law enforcement, and a lifelong commitment to community safety into the training environment. Peter was born and raised in Sioux Falls, and attended the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, where he earned a degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice with a minor in Mathematics. It was there that he met his wife, Lauren, and began a partnership 

rooted in family and shared values.

After graduation, Peter joined the Sioux Falls Police Department and served for nearly three years. During his time as an officer, he gained firsthand experience in criminal behavior, situational awareness, and practical defensive strategies; these skills now shape the personalized training that Vincere Defense offers. Following the birth of his daughter, Emilia, Peter chose to step away from policing to devote more time to his family while continuing his mission of helping others.

At Vincere Defense, Peter focuses on delivering accessible, real-world home defense instruction. His teaching emphasizes both the technical aspects of firearm handling, the importance of preparation and awareness, and family-centered defense planning.

Away from training, Peter enjoys a quieter pace of life with his wife and daughter. He believes the same principles of awareness and preparedness that guide home defense, also strengthen family life. 

This is a perspective that deeply influences his roles 

as an instructor and a father to protect what matters most.

 Rick Strubel is a co-founder of Vincere Defense, where his passion 

for firearms, craftsmanship, and practical defense come to life. 

Rick received a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, 

and a minor in Psychology from Dakota Wesleyan University. 

He developed a strong foundation in both the technical and 

human aspects of defense through this education.

For the past five years, Rick has served as a Police Officer, gaining hands-on experience in firearms handling, tactical training, and 

close quarters response. He is receiving ongoing education through 

The American Gun Smithing Institute, The Modern Gun School, 

and The Sonoran Desert Institute. This allows him to bring a 

unique perspective to gunsmithing and tactical training. 

His law enforcement background bridges professional expertise with precision craftsmanship. At Vincere Defense, Rick’s mission is to help individuals build, maintain, and understand their firearms with 

a focus on safety, reliability, and real-world application.

Outside of Vincere Defense, Rick is a devoted husband to Allison, and proud father to their daughter, Aurora. His family inspires his dedication 

to empower others to protect what matters most.