As a child, I was diagnosed with ADHD and was naturally full of energy. Instead of resorting to medication, my mother introduced me to martial arts as a channel for my enthusiasm. Just shy of turning 11, around 1981, I began my journey with the local Isshin-Ryu Karate Dojo. Martial arts captivated me deeply. When I was old enough to take up odd jobs in the neighborhood and save some money, I enrolled in various martial arts academies in our quaint town. From the late 80s to the early 90s, I became acquainted with the Burmese Bando System, Tang Soo Do Moo Duk Kwan, and Shaolin Kung Fu.

During a particular phase in my martial arts journey, one of my mentors also ran an expedition firm. Through this connection, I was introduced to a range of adventurous activities such as mountaineering, orienteering, climbing, rigging, rappelling, SCUBA diving, and wilderness survival. Each of these pursuits has since become a passion I actively engage in and continue exploring today.

In 1989, I faced a life-altering moment when I was caught in a devastating head-on collision with a large construction vehicle. The aftermath was grim: I suffered catastrophic facial injuries grave damage to my hands, and endured a traumatic brain injury. Due to the intense impact and damage, I had to undergo surgeries that left me with facial implants to reconstruct my shattered bone structure. The prognosis was disheartening. Doctors informed me that not only would I never be able to step into the ring again, but I also had to be extremely cautious to avoid further head trauma during any kind of training. It felt as if the very foundation of my life, built around my passion for martial arts, was suddenly ripped away. However, the lessons and perseverance I had learned from my martial arts training, combined with the indomitable spirit instilled in me by my instructors, became my guiding light. Despite the odds, I embarked on a rigorous journey of recovery and rehabilitation. While there were necessary precautions and modifications, I found ways to adapt, evolve, and eventually to train once more. Through this ordeal, I learned that the spirit of a warrior is not just in the fight but in rising every time life tries to knock you down.

Eventually, I secured a full-time position teaching at a Kung Fu studio in Chattanooga. It was there that I met Grandmaster Dana Miller and Master Paul Olivas. My association with them led me to delve into the study of Zu Wei Shu, Shaolin Kenpo, Qigong, and Traditional Chinese Healing under the auspices of the U.S. Chuan Fa Association. Moreover, I immersed myself in Chen-style tai chi, Judo, and the Snow Tiger System. As my income increased, I explored and learned from a broader range of martial arts systems. Venturing beyond my hometown opened up many training opportunities, leading me to delve into the arts of Jeet Kune Do, Filipino Kali, and Wing Chun Kung Fu.

On November 12, 1993, a pivotal moment in martial arts history took place. The Ultimate Fighting Championship unveiled its inaugural event, “UFC 1,” introducing the world to a new era of mixed martial arts under the UFC brand. This event, like for many enthusiasts, was a watershed moment for me. Inspired by the techniques and strategies showcased, I felt a compelling urge to delve deeper into Grappling and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. This passion led me to the esteemed Professor Pedro Sauer and Professor Erik Paulson, under whom I began my journey into the intricate world of Jiu-Jitsu, Submission Wrestling, and Catch Wrestling. I currently hold the rank of 4th Degree Black Belt under Master Pedro with the lineage: Helio Gracie > Rickson Gracie > Pedro Sauer > Alan Baker.

Relocating to Atlanta, GA, became a transformative phase in my martial arts journey. This move was driven by a desire to delve deeper into Wing Chun Kung Fu under the expert guidance of Sifu Francis Fong. Atlanta also presented the unique opportunity to train with the legendary Sifu/Guro Dan Inosanto. Through him, I immersed myself in various disciplines, including Jun Fan Kung Fu, Jeet Kune Do, Inosanto/Lacoste Kali, Majapahit Silat, and many other diverse systems he mastered.

Moreover, my move to Atlanta introduced me to the dynamic world of Muay Thai under the watchful eye of Ajarn Chai Sirisute. Concurrently, my passion for Judo was reignited, and I had the honor to further my training with Master Bob Byrd. Among the influential figures I encountered in Atlanta, Master Erik Paulson stands out. Through his teaching, I ventured deeper into Combat Submission Wrestling, Shooto, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and the gritty techniques of catch wrestling.

Not long after relocating, I had the privilege of meeting Sifu Paul Vunak and delving into his Progressive Fighting Systems. Additionally, I explored Paul’s distinctive take on Jeet Kune Do, which he aptly named “Rapid Assault Tactics.” I ultimately progressed to a full instructor status under Paul’s guidance.

In 2002, I founded the Atlanta Martial Arts Center. We had a full schedule at the academy teaching Jeet Kune Do, Filipino Kali, Wing Chun, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Combat Submission Wrestling, Muay Thai Boxing, and Shaolin Kung Fu. By 2007, my journey led me to Justo Dieguez and the intricacies of his Keysi Fighting Method. By 2010, I took on the role of association director for the Combat Submission Wrestling Association, established by the renowned Coach Erik Paulson. Over time, Coach Erik and I forged a deep bond of friendship. This relationship provided me with a unique platform to immerse myself in the realms of MMA, Shoot Boxing, and STX Kickboxing.
Erik Paulson stands as a towering figure in the world of martial arts. His reputation as one of the most proficient and multifaceted martial arts instructors is acknowledged universally. He’s celebrated not only for his vast knowledge but also for his pioneering contributions to mixed martial arts (MMA). A testament to his unparalleled skills is his distinction of becoming the first American to clinch the World Light-Heavyweight Shooto Title in Japan, an achievement he proudly holds twice over.

During this period, I embarked on an in-depth exploration of Chinese Boxing, guided by the expertise of Professor James Cravens. With his extensive experience and deep understanding of martial arts, Professor Cravens offered a unique perspective and methodology. This engagement allowed me to dive deeper into the intricacies and techniques of Chinese Boxing. Around this time, I also began a focused study of Chinese Boxing under Professor James Cravens. I also met Tuhon Tim Waid and began training as a private student under him in the Pekiti-Tirsia Filipino Kali System.

Around 2010, I was introduced to the Executive Protection Institute (EPI) and the Vehicle Dynamics Institute (Vehicle Dynamics Institute). At the Executive Protection Institute in Clarke County, Virginia, I underwent intensive training and achieved certification as an Armed Personal Protection Specialist. Recognizing the distinct needs of Protection Agents or Bodyguards, I crafted a unique defensive tactics program named “Protection Response Tactics.” This program became a staple at EPI, reinforcing its reputation as one of the premier institutions for executive protection training worldwide.
Simultaneously, my association with the Vehicle Dynamics Institute in New Jersey led me to design another specialized program called “Vehicle Centric Defensive Tactics.” VDI and EPI are globally acclaimed institutions for their tactical/security driving and executive protection expertise, respectively.

Venturing deeper into the specialized world of tactical training, I founded the Baker Tactical Training & Design Group, a comprehensive platform dedicated to enhancing security and tactical proficiency across various sectors. Through this initiative, we’ve provided specialized training modules covering countermeasures, advanced defensive tactics, firearms proficiency, and mastery over edged weapons. Our esteemed clientele features the security teams of Fortune 500 companies specialized SWAT units from various regions, including the Marietta SWAT team in Georgia, the Cincinnati SWAT team in Ohio, the drug task force team of the Sarasota Sheriff’s Department, and the Louisiana Sheriff’s Association. Furthermore, our expertise has been tapped by the renowned California Highway Patrol. In addition to these achievements, I have taken pride in crafting unique defensive tactic curricula for notable establishments such as the Royal Range in Nashville and collaborated closely with John Lovell to design specialized programs for his acclaimed Warrior Poet Society.

In 2014, responding to the overwhelming demand from civilians keen on learning the strategies embedded in the Baker Defensive Tactics, we founded the Civilian Tactical Training Association (CTTA). This platform was specifically designed to disseminate valuable tactics and techniques to the general public, ensuring that individuals are well-equipped with self-defense knowledge. Recognizing its continued relevance and importance, we remain committed to organizing two annual instructor training events specifically for the C-Tac program.

In 2020, as the pandemic swept through the U.S., I took the difficult decision to temporarily shutter the school. Seeking solace and inspiration, I retreated to the mountains of Virginia. There, surrounded by nature, I penned my debut book, “The Warrior’s Path,” inspired by the self-development program I had previously crafted under the same title. This initial foray into writing subsequently birthed two more books: “The Universal Principles of Change” and “Morning Mastery,” which was released in 2023.

At the end of 2021, Former U.S. Army Combat Engineer Brent Magnussen introduced me to former Navy SEAL Lt.. Jason Redman. This introduction led to designing a unique defensive tactics program for his Overcome & Survive Program and becoming partners in the Roger Up intensive personal development event. At the Roger Up event, I began my speaking journey that led to speaking for the Eagle Rise Speakers Network, as well as becoming one of Redman Coaches. I now continue to design and teach defensive tactic programs for multiple intensities and coach and speak.

My connection with Lt. Redman opened the door to meeting Edgar and Patricia Gonzalez, who are at the helm of Tactical 21 as CEO and CFO, respectively. Edgar specialized in weapons and armament systems during his impressive 14-year career in the military as an Aviation Ordnanceman.
Collaborating with Edgar was an enlightening experience that led to a significant development in my career. Following our work together, I embraced the role of Defensive Tactics Instructor at Tactical 21. This position has allowed me to apply and share my expertise in a dynamic and impactful way, furthering my journey in the field of tactical training and defense.

Towards the end of 2023, I embarked on an exciting project to develop a comprehensive Defensive Tactics program for the Warrior Poet Society. Collaborating with John and Paul has been an incredible experience. They were searching for a program that not only encompasses effective verbal tactics and de-escalation techniques but also teaches appropriate responses to low and high-level threats, including the integration of fixed blades and firearms.
Our shared vision of equipping people with the skills they need to navigate an increasingly unpredictable world is truly inspiring.

In early 2024, a significant collaboration took place between Alan and Michael Julian, the innovator behind A.L.I.V.E. Active Shooter Survival Training. Together, they developed a specialized defensive tactics and firearm disarmament course. This new offering was designed specifically to enhance the A.L.I.V.E. Instructor Training Program, aiming to equip instructors with advanced skills in handling potentially lethal situations effectively. By combining Alan’s expertise in defensive tactics with Michael Julian’s pioneering approach to active shooter survival, they have created a robust training module that promises significant advancements in personal and public safety training.