MEET THE TEAM

Allow us to introduce ourselves!

Devin Seeley

Owner/Firearms Instructor

Hi, I’m Devin. I’ve spent the last 7 years serving as a law enforcement officer in the Genesee County area, where I also serve as a certified MCOLES firearms instructor. Since 2022, I’ve had the privilege of serving as a firearms instructor for the Mott LERTA Police Academy, helping shape the next generation of law enforcement professionals.

My passion is helping everyday people prepare for their worst day—through practical, real-world training in both firearms tactics and legal knowledge.

In 2020, I started First Class Defense with one goal in mind: to provide high-quality, no-nonsense CPL training that empowers people to protect themselves and their loved ones. Since then, I’ve had the honor of training over 1,500 students and counting.

Whether you're brand new to firearms or looking to sharpen your skills, I’m here to make sure you walk away confident, capable, and ready.

Nate Delong

Firearms Instructor

Nate is a highly trained law enforcement officer and Marine Corps veteran with a strong background in tactical instruction and frontline service. He served in the United States Marine Corps from 2006 to 2011, where he gained a foundation in discipline, leadership, and operational readiness. After his military service, he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice through Mott Community College and Oakland University, completing his studies in 2015. Nate graduated from the LERTA Police Academy in 2016 and has served with the Flint Township Police Department since 2017.

Throughout his law enforcement career, Nate has expanded his skill set to include certifications as a pistol and rifle firearms instructor, defensive tactics instructor, and AR-15 and Glock armorer. He also serves as an IRT (SWAT) sniper and is a firearms instructor at the LERTA Police Academy at Mott Community College, where he helps train and prepare the next generation of law enforcement professionals. His commitment to tactical excellence and real-world preparedness continues to drive his work both on the street and in the classroom.

Emanuel Petrich

Firearms Instructor

Emanuel brings a unique blend of discipline, precision, and real-world experience to the firearms training community. A former collegiate and professional golfer, Emanuel transitioned into law enforcement, where he has proudly served for the past seven years. Throughout his career, he has developed a deep expertise in firearms training and self-defense, fueled by a relentless pursuit of knowledge both inside and outside the agency.

Emanuel began his law enforcement career with the Flint Police Department, where he served on the Tactical Response Team (TRT/SWAT) and worked as part of the proactive Narcotics/Special Investigations Unit. He rose through the ranks to Detective Sergeant before moving on to his current role as a Road Deputy with the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office.

What sets Emanuel apart is his commitment to ongoing growth. Most of his advanced training has been sought out independently, reflecting his belief in learning from the best to become the best—not just for himself, but for the civilians and fellow officers he trains. His dedication was put to the ultimate test in 2021, when he survived an ambush during the Juneteenth Parade in downtown Flint. That experience only deepened his resolve to train harder and teach smarter.

Emanuel continues to refine his skills by actively competing in USPSA and IDPA matches and regularly attending specialized courses to evolve as an instructor. His passion lies in helping others become more prepared, more capable, and more confident in their ability to defend themselves.