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Our Team

Our team of expert trainers and coaches specializes in peer mentorship, resilience training, and tactical mindset solutions, dedicated to empowering first responders with the skills and support they need to thrive in challenging environments.

VEST Coach/Trainer

Martin Berta

With a rich background in military and law enforcement, Martin Berta exemplifies leadership and resilience. His career spans over two decades, during which he has led teams, trained officers, and contributed to public safety both domestically and internationally. Now retired, Berta served as a Training Officer and Sergeant with the West Jordan Police Department. He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our First Responder focus at Lecticon VEST. His expertise in mentoring and management, combined with his strategic mindset, ensures that first responders are well-equipped to handle the complexities of their roles.

Areas of Engagement
Leadership Training, Tactical Operations, Peer Mentorship & Support, Resilience Training
Fun Personal Facts
I am fluent in Spanish, Portuguese, and Tagalog, and I enjoy connecting with diverse communities. Outside of work, I am passionate about martial arts and have been recognized as a top gunner and martial arts instructor during my time in the Marine Corps.
Professional Highlights
Retired Training Officer and Sergeant at West Jordan Police Department, Sergeant in the Utah Army National Guard Special Forces, State Trooper with Utah Highway Patrol, Operations Officer at UT Army National Guard Joint Language Training Center, Police Officer at Taylorsville City Police Department, Extensive experience in SWAT operations and survival tactics, Numerous military accolades including the Bronze Star and Combat Action Badge
Availability
In-person, virtual, and blended.

VEST Coach/Trainer

Jonathan Rudd

With a distinguished career spanning over two decades with the FBI, Jonathan Rudd brings unparalleled expertise to our First Responder focus at Lecticon VEST. Jonathan’s journey began with tackling organized crime and evolved to combating international terrorism, counterintelligence, and cybercrime. Now, he channels his extensive experience into empowering first responders through Tactical Empowerment Training. This six-session program is designed to cultivate a resilient mindset, helping law enforcement officers and leaders manage daily challenges effectively. By partnering with Jonathan, an experienced law enforcement officer and professional peer coach, participants will learn to enhance their relationships and create a fulfilling life both on duty and at home.

Areas of Engagement
Tactical Mindset Solutions, Peer Mentorship & Support, Resilience Training
Fun Personal Facts
I am a licensed attorney and certified Life Coach. I enjoy teaching at UVU’s POST Police Academy and staying connected with the next generation of law enforcement professionals. My background in Peer Support and Emergency Medical Response reflects my commitment to holistic wellness and proactive mental health.
Professional Highlights
Retired FBI Special Agent with 21 years of service, Faculty member at Utah Valley University, Peer Support and Emergency Medical Responder, Licensed Attorney, Certified Life Coach
Courses
VEST First Responder Resilience, Tactical Empowerment Training
Availability
Online, on-demand course material, virtual appearances, live appearances

Mental Health Counselor, Trainer, and Speaker

Joel Huff

My story starts with an acting career that started at the University of Utah actor training program. AFter finishing my BFA I auditioned in New York for graduate acting programs. I ended up at Northern Illinois University for my MFA and then worked professionally as an actor in Chicago and taught theatre arts classes at Elmhurst University. In 2015 I decided to make some changes and went on my own mental health journey where I discovered a new passion to work with people on their mental health. More school followed and now I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor.

I currently serve as the head of operations and oversight in the Vest Care Center. I also help to develop the VEST resilience training, do many presentations, and webinars. I also head our CISM response team that provides in person group debriefs and individual therapy to companies as requested.

Areas of Engagement
Mental Health psychoeducation, Company Trainings, Cultural Connection Presentations, Individual and group therapy.
Fun Personal Facts
I can ride a unicycle and my son is a miracle boy who was born weighing only 1lb 3 oz.
Professional Highlights
Excited to celebrate three years with VEST! I worked in a residential treatment center for substance abuse for five years before joining the VEST team. I was nominated for a Jeff award for acting in Chicago. I studied abroad as an actor in Moscow, Russia.
Courses
Resiliency, Leadership, Stress Management, Finding Flow, and Self Care.
Availability
Online, on-demand course material, virtual appearances, live appearances, individual and group therapy.