Instructor Bios

Kristin Winchester-Hilgers

A lifelong equestrian, Kristin is a highly credentialed professional with over a decade of demonstrated expertise in specialized training and instruction, specifically within the mounted patrol discipline.

Primary Instructor Accredited Credentials:

-Certified Mounted Patrol Instructor, National Mounted Police Services

-Advanced Mounted Police Tactical Instructor, National Mounted Police Services

-English/Western Instructor, Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA)

Additional Certifications:

-Equine Air Scenting, American Equine Scenting Association

-Certified Equine Sports Massage Therapist:

-Training completed at Midwest Natural Healing for Animals,

-Provides a critical, comprehensive understanding of equine anatomy and performance health essential for patrol horse welfare and readiness

Operational and Training Experience:

Kristin is a graduate of the prestigious Mardi Gras Mounted Patrol School. Her extensive operational experience encompasses the rigorous testing and riding of patrol horses for a private security entity, volunteer MSAR unit/mounted posse, and the provision of specialized mounted patrol services for major music festivals nationwide. Kristin's core competence lies in the development and implementation of solid foundational training programs, which are essential for achieving the operational readiness of both the mounted officer and the patrol horse.

Equestrian Achievement:

As an accomplished equestrian, she also achieved a SSHBEA (Spotted Saddle Horse Breeders & Exhibitors Association) Sport Horse championship with her horse, Dakota's Bag O' Trix, in 2016.

Andrew Hilgers

Andrew is an exceptionally qualified instructor who contributes a wealth of real-world expertise to his instruction. As an active, sworn law enforcement officer, he ensures that his training methods are current and firmly grounded in practical, operational knowledge. Mr. Hilgers possesses a distinguished specialization in mounted patrol, which includes developing comprehensive training programs and executing complex mounted operations. His profound comprehension of both advanced equestrian skills and police tactics establishes him as a premier resource for agencies requiring advanced mounted unit training. His qualifications are focused on the development and mentorship of officers and ensuring the operational readiness of mounted units.

Law Enforcement Credentials & Active Service:

-Texas Peace Officer

-Advanced Field Training Officer (FTO) with the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office

-Holds an Instructor Certification from the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE)

Specialized Instructor Certifications (Accredited by National Mounted Police Services):

-Certified Mounted Patrol Instructor

-Advanced Mounted Police Tactical Instructor

Training & Expertise:

-Crossed Sabers earned with Harris County Sheriff’s Office Mounted Patrol School.

-Holds a certification in Technical Large Animal Rescue (TLAR).

-Possesses extensive experience in the groundwork, training, and development of both horses and mounted riders, utilizing a professional approach defined by fairness, firmness, and consistency.