Ready to level up your law enforcement skills? The ILEETA 2025 Annual Conference delivers an unparalleled arsenal of courses to sharpen your skills and advance your career.
Law enforcement professionals passionate about skill-building and career advancement should not miss the ILEETA Annual Conference. With over 100 courses covering topics such as use of force, instructor development, and firearms training, ILEETA is a gold mine of professional development opportunities.
VirTra, a leader in innovative simulation training, is proud to offer three internationally certified courses at ILEETA 2025:
Autism – A Guide for First Responders
3/25, 2025 | 1000-1145, 1500-1645
Course Overview:
- Learn key signs that may indicate a person has been diagnosed with Autism
- Practice communication and interaction methods for engaging with individuals on the spectrum
- Test your skills in simulated scenarios
Graham v. Connor: A New View
3/26, 2025 | 0800-0945
Course Overview:
- Experience a high-fidelity re-enactment of the events leading to the Graham v. Connor (1989) Supreme Court case
- Analyze relevant legal cases and real-world applications.
- Test your decision-making in hands-on simulator training.
My Story: Kyle Dinkheller
3/25, 2025: 1300-1445
Course Overview:
- Experience a detailed analysis of the 1998 shooting of Deputy Kyle Dinkheller
- Learn tactical considerations and key lessons learned to prevent similar tragedies
- Strengthen critical thinking in high-risk encounters using simulator training.
Meet the instructors
Salvatore “T.J.” Alioto spent 20 years in law enforcement with the Wauwatosa Police Department, ranking as a Lieutenant prior to retiring in 2015. Born in Milwaukee, he taught several law enforcement courses in his hometown and became a lead police academy instructor. Using his 27 years of experience in designing and presenting coursework and curriculum for police officers, T.J. relocated to Arizona and became a Law Enforcement Subject Matter Expert for VirTra.
Lon Bartel, Principal Researcher at VirTra, leverages over 20 years of law enforcement experience, including 12 years as a Rangemaster and 17 years as a certified trainer. An expert recognized in multiple jurisdictions, he specializes in firearms, defensive tactics, and use-of-force analysis. Bartel also serves as an instructor with the Force Science Institute. His work focuses on designing science-based, high-fidelity simulation training to enhance officer performance and decision-making.
We’ll see you there!
Still need to register for ILEETA 2025? Register Now to secure your spot.
In the wild, lion cubs engage in playful behaviors like wrestling, chasing, and mock hunting. At first glance, this play may seem like mere entertainment, but in reality, it’s essential training for their survival. Through play, lion cubs develop the skills they’ll need as apex predators—coordination, situational awareness, and strategic thinking. In much the same way, law enforcement officers (LEOs) can benefit from training that integrates gamification, using playful yet purposeful learning to master critical skills, particularly in firearms training.
What is Gamification?
Gamification applies game-like elements—competition, goals, rewards, and challenges—to training environments. It leverages the natural human drive for achievement and engagement, making learning more immersive and effective. For LEOs, gamified training enhances their ability to adapt, make decisions under pressure, and refine techniques in a realistic yet safe setting.
Lessons from Lion Cubs
Much like lion cubs using play to practice their future roles in the pride, gamification enables LEOs to simulate real-world situations in a controlled environment. Here’s how the principles of gamification align with the playful learning of lion cubs:
1. Realism with Low Risk
Lion cubs mimic hunting behaviors during play—stalking, pouncing, and reacting to moving targets—without the danger of a real hunt. In LEO firearms training, gamified scenarios create immersive environments using VR/AR simulations or live-fire drills with targets representing potential threats. Officers can experiment with techniques without real-world consequences.
2. Building Muscle Memory Motor Programs
Cubs repeat motions like swatting and dodging until these become instinctual. Similarly, gamification encourages LEOs to engage in repetitive drills disguised as competitive challenges. For example, a timed accuracy drill with a scoring system promotes skill development while keeping training engaging.
3. Stress Inoculation
When cubs play, they face sudden changes—an ambush by a sibling or an unpredictable move mimicking prey. This prepares them for the unexpected. In gamified firearms training, LEOs are exposed to stress-inducing elements such as time limits, shifting objectives, or surprise events. These conditions train officers to perform under pressure, a critical skill in high-stakes encounters.
4. Instant Feedback for Growth
Lion cubs quickly learn what works and what doesn’t—whether it’s a successful pounce or a missed opportunity. Gamification in firearms training provides instant feedback, such as hit indicators, performance analytics, or leaderboard rankings. This immediate reinforcement helps LEOs refine their skills efficiently.
5. Encouraging Collaboration and Competition
Cubs engage in cooperative play with their siblings while also competing for dominance. Gamified training mirrors this dynamic by fostering teamwork among officers while also encouraging friendly competition. For example, team-based shooting drills or individual score challenges develop both camaraderie and individual accountability.
Applying Gamification to Police Firearms Training
Here are specific ways gamification principles can elevate firearms training for LEOs and facilitated in the VirTra simulator:
Simulation Scenarios: Virtual environments allow LEOs to practice in lifelike settings, such as active shooter situations or de-escalation encounters, with adjustable difficulty and complexity.
Scoring and Leaderboards: Ranking officers based on accuracy, reaction time, or decision-making introduces motivation and a sense of accomplishment.
Timed Challenges: Incorporating countdowns and target acquisition drills helps LEOs develop quick reflexes and prioritize under pressure.
Dynamic Targeting: Moving or reactive targets simulate real-life conditions, challenging officers to adapt on the fly.
Story-Based Missions: Integrating narratives, such as hostage scenarios or tactical breaches, adds context and purpose to training sessions.
Conclusion
Why do lion cubs play? They play because it’s how they prepare to survive and thrive in their world. Similarly, LEOs can benefit from gamified training, which fosters skills through engaging, realistic, and stress-inducing scenarios. Just as play prepares lion cubs for the challenges of the savanna, gamification ensures LEOs are ready for the unpredictable demands of the field.
Train like a lion, and you’ll be ready to lead the pride.
At VirTra, we prioritize staying closely connected with our customers. Over the past year, when we asked VirTra operators about their training preferences, the response was clear: “More use of force and de-escalation scenario training, please!”
In response, we are focusing heavily on this training category for the upcoming quarter. Our content team has worked diligently to develop new scenarios. This batch includes a range of interactive courses designed to prepare officers for the complexities of policing in 2025, covering everything from language barrier interactions to encounters with “First Amendment auditors.”
New Content Highlights:
- New Skill Drills
- De-escalation Scenario Training
- First Amendment Scenarios
- New V-Author Characters
- Graham v Connor certified curriculum
These scenarios cover a broad spectrum of skills, challenging trainees to apply their knowledge in diverse situations. Officers will navigate local First Amendment and open carry laws, assess subjects’ mental health, and manage situations involving unruly individuals, such as a homeless man harassing pedestrians. Additionally, our new Behavioral Threat Analysis drills immerse trainees in dynamic environments filled with both hostile and non-hostile characters, requiring real-time judgment and appropriate use of force.
Ready to enhance your simulator with this new training? Contact your regional VirTra expert to schedule a service visit and explore these new topics in the updated scenario library. Happy training!
VirTra continues to expand its integration capabilities and portfolio with new integrations for the data analytics platform APEX and the robot target HEKTR. This adds to its existing integrations with VBS4 and Unity. To further grow its integration capability, VirTra added team members with extensive experience in military modeling and simulation.
APEX for Data Analytics
VirTra simulators can now leverage APEX to provide immediate and actionable training insights for trainees to accelerate training effectiveness. This enables trainees to achieve improved outcomes even in the same training session. APEX also provides trending analysis and high level reports for instructors and leaders. APEX is a data analytics and training intelligence platform that enables trainees, instructors, and decision makers with little or no data analytics experience to quickly and easily gain actionable insights from their training data. APEX is a dynamic, scalable, and customizable tool that can be integrated and extended for customers with advanced data analytics needs.
Innovative Blended Training with HEKTR
VirTra used an innovative integration for the robot target HEKTR to demonstrate a blended training environment which creates more engaging and realistic training scenarios. The integration was a collaboration between VirTra, the Air Force Research Lab, and Wright State University. The existing VirTra integration with VBS4 was used to quickly and efficiently build the solution which demonstrates VirTra’s ability to cost effectively integrate across systems to support new training capabilities.
New Team Members
VirTra welcomed new team members with extensive experience in military simulation and training. They have contributed to well-known simulation and training programs like AVCATT, CCTT, OneSAF, DVTE, and Games For Training (GFT). The additional experience will enable VirTra to successfully deliver larger and more complex integrations.
CEO John Givens Highlights I/ITSEC 2024 Innovations
John Givens, CEO of VirTra, shared the company’s excitement for this year’s showcase, stating:
“I/ITSEC remains a premier event for simulation where the most impactful technologies and collaborations are introduced and applied to the training environment. This year, VirTra is proud to present very complex integrations in a user friendly, easy to use format that will redefine training analysis and approaches for armed forces worldwide.”
With new analytics capabilities, a wide range of training integrations, and experienced talent, VirTra is poised to enter 2025 in an advantageous position and push the technical boundaries of military training. I/ITSEC 2024 attendees can experience these additions firsthand at Booth #449, or schedule private demonstrations via this Contact page.
CHANDLER, AZ – October 22, 2024 – VirTra, Inc. (Nasdaq: VTSI) (“VirTra” or the “Company”), a global provider of judgmental use-of-force and firearms training simulators for law enforcement and military markets, has announced the appointment of two high-ranking and distinguished leaders in military operations and police training to its board of directors: retired U.S. Army Lieutenant General Maria R. Gervais and Executive Director Mike Ayers of the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Council. The appointments became effective on October 21, 2024.
With the addition of Gervais and Ayers, four of VirTra’s five board members are now independent, reinforcing the Company’s focus on effective governance and strategic leadership. Their leadership backgrounds in military operations and police training will support VirTra’s efforts to innovate and deliver life-saving training solutions for public safety and military professionals.
Both appointees have led transformative programs in their respective fields, restructuring training programs that resulted in lasting and profound performance improvements. Their expertise will help guide VirTra during an important phase of growth as the Company expands its product and scenario offerings into new industries, further solidifying its leadership in immersive training technology.
VirTra’s Newest Board Members
Lieutenant General Maria R. Gervais, USA (Ret.)
Lt. Gen. Gervais spearheaded a $2 billion modernization initiative that reduced Army training time by three years while enhancing readiness. She introduced 3D terrain technology to accelerate virtual training, an approach later adopted by other agencies. Her experience with virtual environments will be instrumental in supporting VirTra’s integration of Virtual Battle Space (VBS) military training into its simulator systems.
“VirTra’s reputation for providing innovative simulation technology, combined with its marksmanship and law enforcement expertise, is unmatched,” said Gervais. “VirTra consistently delivers quality training to customers. I am excited to be joining the VirTra team—they have an excellent track record, believe in what they are doing, and have the potential to achieve even more. I want to be part of VirTra’s mission to build and deliver simulation training capabilities that enable organizations to achieve excellence and improve workforce performance.”
Executive Director Mike Ayers, Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council
Ayers has over 37 years of experience in law enforcement training, certification, and development. As Executive Director of Georgia POST, he led a comprehensive overhaul of the state’s police credentialing program, increasing required training from 408 hours to over 800 hours and introducing innovative psychological and physical training methods that improved officer performance and community safety. As a board member and former president of the International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training (IADLEST), Ayers is uniquely positioned to help guide VirTra’s training curriculum development. His partnership with VirTra has its roots in the Company’s IADLEST-certified V-VICTA curriculum.
“VirTra represents the future of military and public safety training,” said Ayers. “Its products equip soldiers and officers to succeed in dynamic and dangerous situations while also protecting officers, communities, and the individuals who call these communities home. Today’s law enforcement and military deployments require split-second evaluation and decision-making in high-pressure environments. I have long supported high-quality scenario-based training, and VirTra consistently delivers that standard to our law enforcement officers and military personnel. It is an incredible honor to contribute to providing the best training products for the men and women in uniform. It is a sacred obligation that will lead to better outcomes and safer streets.”
John Givens, CEO of VirTra, emphasized the significance of these new appointments, saying: “It is a testament to the importance of VirTra’s mission that internationally recognized leaders like Lt. Gen. Gervais and Director Ayers are joining our team. Lt. Gen. Gervais will play a pivotal role in advancing our military training initiatives and VBS integration, while Ayers’ extensive experience in overseeing the training and certification of approximately 59,000 officers in Georgia will directly enhance the effectiveness and implementation of our law enforcement training programs. I am confident that their leadership will enable VirTra to continue expanding the boundaries of innovation, delivering the exceptional performance our partners have come to rely on.”
About VirTra
VirTra (Nasdaq: VTSI) is a global provider of judgmental use of force training simulators, firearms training simulators for the law enforcement, military, educational and commercial markets. The company’s patented technologies, software, and scenarios provide intense training for de-escalation, judgmental use-of-force, marksmanship, and related training that mimics real-world situations. VirTra’s mission is to save and improve lives worldwide through practical and highly effective virtual reality and simulator technology. Learn more about the company at www.VirTra.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
The information in this discussion contains forward-looking statements and information within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which are subject to the “safe harbor” created by those sections. The words “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “project,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “predict,” “potential,” “continue,” “would” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. We may not actually achieve the plans, intentions or expectations disclosed in our forward-looking statements and you should not place undue reliance on our forward-looking statements. Actual results or events could differ materially from the plans, intentions and expectations disclosed in the forward-looking statements that we make. The forward-looking statements are applicable only as of the date on which they are made, and we do not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements in this document are made based on our current expectations, forecasts, estimates and assumptions, and involve risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause results or events to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements. In evaluating these statements, you should specifically consider various factors, uncertainties and risks that could affect our future results or operations. These factors, uncertainties and risks may cause our actual results to differ materially from any forward-looking statement set forth in the reports we file with or furnish to the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). You should carefully consider these risks and uncertainties described and other information contained in the reports we file with or furnish to the SEC before making any investment decision with respect to our securities. All forward-looking statements attributable to us or persons acting on our behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.
Investor Relations Contact:
Alec Wilson and Matt Glover
Gateway Group, Inc.
949-574-3860
Many are calling for improvements in law enforcement, but few are as qualified as the presenters at the Force Science 2024 Conference, happening September 24-26 in Chicago. To call it a must-attend event for law enforcement professionals seeking cutting-edge research and training may be an understatement. The conference brings together a lineup of experts specializing in human performance, tactical science, legal considerations, and mental health—topics vital to the challenges officers face today.
Legendary key speakers include Dr. Bill Lewinski, founder of the Force Science Institute, whose groundbreaking work in human performance under stress has redefined how agencies approach use-of-force training. Dr. Marc Green, a leading authority on human vision and perception, will offer critical insights into how officers process visual information in high-stress scenarios, shedding light on split-second decisions made during life-threatening incidents. Dr. Darrell Ross, whose prolific research focuses on law enforcement practices and officer safety, will present invaluable data for agencies working to minimize risks in the field.
Additionally, Dr. Gary Klein, an expert in decision-making under pressure, will bring his renowned expertise to the table, showing how officers can enhance their intuitive judgment through practical training and real-world experiences. One of my favorites, Dr. Timothy Lee, will also be present. Dr. Lee, alongside Dr. Richard Schmidt (R.I.P.), co-authored the foundational textbook on motor learning and control that I used as an undergraduate in 1997, and that remains a seminal work in its 6th edition. His contributions to understanding the science of motor skills are indispensable for improving officer performance in critical situations.
This conference is truly an all-star ensemble of speakers, each bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to the forefront of law enforcement training and practice. Their insights into stress, attention, decision-making, and officer wellness are essential for agencies striving to enhance performance and safety.
Among the vital presentations, attendees can expect topics like “Failure to See: Human Performance in High-Profile Police Shootings,” which explores the complex relationship between perception, stress, and decision-making during critical incidents. Another highlight will be the discussion on “Biomechanics from Video Evidence,” where attendees will learn what is needed to interpret and utilize video footage for accurate use-of-force analysis.
One particularly intriguing presentation is “Use of Force Options Transitioning: Implications,” which dives into the complexities officers face when switching between non-lethal and lethal force options in real-time, a topic crucial for refining tactical training. Other sessions focus on officer health, including trauma prevention and resiliency training, providing agencies with the latest tools to safeguard their personnel from the psychological toll of policing.
Force Science will also showcase the latest research on use-of-force incidents, giving attendees a fresh look at how scientific data can inform and improve training protocols across departments.
In short, the Force Science 2024 Conference is not just an opportunity to learn from the best in the field—it’s an essential gathering for law enforcement professionals committed to using science and research to elevate their practices. With experts like Dr. Lewinski, Dr. Green, Dr. Ross, Dr. Klein, and Dr. Lee on the stage, this conference promises to be an exceptional resource for those looking to stay ahead in the ever-evolving law enforcement landscape.
CHANDLER, Ariz. – August 19, 2024 — VirTra, Inc. (Nasdaq: VTSI) (“VirTra” or the “Company”), a global provider of judgmental use of force training simulators and firearms training simulators for the law enforcement and military markets, is confirmed to present at the 2024 Annual Gateway Conference, which is being held September 4-5, at the Four Seasons Hotel in San Francisco, CA.
VirTra’s management team is scheduled to present on Thursday, September 5 at 9:00 a.m. Pacific Time (PT). The presentation will be webcast live and available for replay here. A tech demo will also be conducted by VirTra on Wednesday, September 4. In addition to the presentation, VirTra executives will be available for one-on-one meetings throughout the conference.
For additional information, to request an invitation, or to schedule a one-on-one meeting, please email [email protected].
About The Gateway Conference
Set against the backdrop of the Four Seasons Hotel in San Francisco, the Gateway Conference offers a unique stage for both public and private companies to introduce their stories to new audiences. Celebrating 25 years of fostering impactful industry connections, this year’s conference embodies Gateway’s mission of connecting leading growth-stage companies with prospective investors, analysts, partners, and other capital markets constituents.
The event offers attendees an exclusive look at a diverse array of companies across sectors such as technology, cleantech, consumer, industrials, financial services, and healthcare. Through presentations and one-on-one meetings, investors and analysts will have exclusive access to senior company executives from over 100 private and public companies.
About Gateway Group
Gateway is a leading financial communications and digital media advisory firm specializing in assisting emerging growth companies for over 25 years. We work with businesses at various stages of corporate development, from private startups to public enterprises. Our team of experts offers decades of experience in all facets of corporate communications, including investor relations (IR) and public relations (PR), as well as cutting-edge digital media services such as branding & creative, web development, and social media. Gateway clients are industry leaders in technology, consumer, industrials, finance, business services, and more. To learn more about Gateway Group, our offerings, or how we can help meet your communications needs visit gateway-grp.com or connect with us on LinkedIn.
About VirTra, Inc.
VirTra (Nasdaq: VTSI) is a global provider of judgmental use of force training simulators and firearms training simulators for the law enforcement, military, educational and commercial markets. The company’s patented technologies, software, and scenarios provide intense training for de-escalation, judgmental use-of-force, marksmanship, and related training that mimics real-world situations. VirTra’s mission is to save and improve lives worldwide through practical and highly effective virtual reality and simulator technology. Learn more about the company at www.VirTra.com.
CHANDLER, Ariz. — August 6, 2024 — VirTra, Inc. (Nasdaq: VTSI) (“VirTra” or the “Company”), a global provider of judgmental use of force training simulators and firearms training simulators for the law enforcement and military markets, today announced the appointment of Brandon Cox as Chief Technology Officer, effective August 12, 2024, reporting to VirTra Chairman and CEO John Givens. In this role, Cox will lead the acceleration of VirTra’s expansion into data analytics, drive key systems integrations, and lead the development of new products and enhancements to existing ones.
Cox brings over 20 years of expertise in creating and delivering immersive 3D virtual training environments, large-scale cloud consumer products, big data analytics platforms, systems integrations, and video games and entertainment products. He has a proven track record of innovation and leadership across various industries.
He previously worked with John Givens at Bohemia Interactive Simulations as the Senior Director of Software Development and DevOps. During his tenure, Cox led global teams in product development and operations, focusing on advanced simulation technologies. He was instrumental in developing VBS IG, an image generator that leverages game-based technology to provide cost-effective training solutions. He also directed the development of VBS Tactics, a web-based interface for real-time tactical exercises, and BISIM SDKs, which allow customers to integrate game-based technology into their solutions.
Cox has vast experience helping military and commercial customers adopt emerging technologies to solve mission-critical challenges. Most recently, he served for seven years as a technical leader at Amazon and Amazon Web Services (AWS), where he led teams in delivering large-scale consumer products, developer tools, and solutions to accelerate the adoption of cloud technologies.
Cox holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from the University of Central Florida.
“Brandon brings extensive engineering experience and an innovative mindset to VirTra, which will be instrumental as we continue to push the boundaries of simulation training technology during this important growth phase,” said Givens. “His leadership in innovation and systems integration will advance our products’ effectiveness and expand our impact in key growth areas like military. This appointment also allows our team to focus on expanding our market presence and delivering exceptional value to clients.”
Cox added, “It’s an honor to return to the simulation industry and apply my passion for innovation and technology to make VirTra’s solutions more user-friendly and effective for our law enforcement and military customers. I look forward to working with John and the exceptional team at VirTra to drive sustained growth and innovation, ensuring our products meet the evolving needs of our customers.”
About VirTra, Inc.
VirTra (Nasdaq: VTSI) is a global provider of judgmental use of force training simulators and firearms training simulators for the law enforcement, military, educational and commercial markets. The company’s patented technologies, software, and scenarios provide intense training for de-escalation, judgmental use-of-force, marksmanship, and related training that mimics real-world situations. VirTra’s mission is to save and improve lives worldwide through practical and highly effective virtual reality and simulator technology. Learn more about the company at www.VirTra.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
The information in this discussion contains forward-looking statements and information within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which are subject to the “safe harbor” created by those sections. The words “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “project,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “predict,” “potential,” “continue,” “would” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. We may not actually achieve the plans, intentions or expectations disclosed in our forward-looking statements and you should not place undue reliance on our forward-looking statements. Actual results or events could differ materially from the plans, intentions and expectations disclosed in the forward-looking statements that we make. The forward-looking statements are applicable only as of the date on which they are made, and we do not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements in this document are made based on our current expectations, forecasts, estimates and assumptions, and involve risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause results or events to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements. In evaluating these statements, you should specifically consider various factors, uncertainties and risks that could affect our future results or operations. These factors, uncertainties and risks may cause our actual results to differ materially from any forward-looking statement set forth in the reports we file with or furnish to the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). You should carefully consider these risks and uncertainties described and other information contained in the reports we file with or furnish to the SEC before making any investment decision with respect to our securities. All forward-looking statements attributable to us or persons acting on our behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.
Investor Relations Contact:
Matt Glover and Alec Wilson
Gateway Group, Inc.
949-574-3860
CHANDLER, Ariz. — July 29, 2024 — VirTra, Inc. (Nasdaq: VTSI) (“VirTra” or the “Company”), a global provider of judgmental use of force training simulators, and firearms training simulators for the law enforcement and military markets, will hold a conference call on Monday, August 12, 2024 at 4:30 p.m. Eastern time (1:30 p.m. Pacific time) to discuss its financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2024. Financial results will be issued in a press release prior to the call.
VirTra management will host the presentation, followed by a question-and-answer period.
Date: Monday, August 12, 2024
Time: 4:30 p.m. Eastern time (1:30 p.m. Pacific time)
U.S. dial-in: 1-877-407-9208
International dial-in: 1-201-493-6784
Conference ID: 13747540
Please call the conference telephone number 5-10 minutes prior to the start time. An operator will register your name and organization. If you have any difficulty connecting with the conference call, please contact Gateway Group at 949-574-3860.
The conference call will be broadcast live and available for replay here and via the investor relations section of the Company’s website.
A replay of the call will be available after 7:30 p.m. Eastern time on the same day through August 26, 2024.
Toll-free replay number: 1-844-512-2921
International replay number: 1-412-317-6671
Replay ID: 13747540
About VirTra, Inc.
VirTra (Nasdaq: VTSI) is a global provider of judgmental use of force training simulators and firearms training simulators for the law enforcement, military, educational and commercial markets. The company’s patented technologies, software, and scenarios provide intense training for de-escalation, judgmental use-of-force, marksmanship, and related training that mimics real-world situations. VirTra’s mission is to save and improve lives worldwide through practical and highly effective virtual reality and simulator technology. Learn more about the company at www.VirTra.com.
Investor Relations Contact:
Matt Glover and Alec Wilson
Gateway Group, Inc.
949-574-3860
Bob Ferris Transitions from Executive Chairman of the Board to the Advisory Board
CHANDLER, Ariz. — July 9, 2024 — VirTra, Inc. (Nasdaq: VTSI) (“VirTra” or the “Company”), a global provider of judgmental use of force training simulators and firearms training simulators for the law enforcement and military markets, today announced that Bob Ferris will step down from his position as Executive Chairman and will depart as a director. The Board is pleased to appoint CEO John Givens as the new Chairman of the Board. Both changes are effective July 12, 2024. Bob Ferris will continue to support VirTra as a member of its Advisory Board.
Additionally, the Company is actively identifying new independent directors to further strengthen the Board and support VirTra’s continued success.
“We are deeply grateful to Bob for his visionary leadership and the foundational role he played in establishing VirTra as a leader in virtual training,” said Givens. “Bob is widely acknowledged as a pioneer in the simulation industry, with his innovative approach dating back to the 1990s. His technological expertise has resulted in highly effective, differentiated training systems that elevate law enforcement and military training worldwide, earning him a revered spot in The National Center for Simulation Hall of Fame. Under his guidance, VirTra developed groundbreaking technologies such as the world’s first 5-screen, 300-degree training simulator, Threat-Fire® return fire, patented recoil kits, V-Author®, V3™ volumetric capture studio, and a host of other ‘world’s firsts’. These innovations have made VirTra a leader in training solutions, supporting agencies across more than 40 countries. We look forward to building on Bob’s legacy and his continued support on VirTra’s Advisory Board.”
Ferris commented, “Building VirTra from the ground up has been a deeply humbling journey. The success of VirTra is owed to overflowing blessings from God, our exceptional and dedicated team, an unmatched focus on delivering uniquely effective products to our customers, and support from our loyal shareholders. I will always cherish the memories of all that we accomplished together—the lives saved and tragedies avoided—because we were bold enough to believe we could push the world’s simulation training standards to far greater levels than ever achieved before. With the highest confidence, I pass on VirTra’s future to John and the leadership team to continue saving lives through better training for military and law enforcement personnel, while generating exceptional rewards for our shareholders.
I want to express my heartfelt thanks to every member of our team, past and present, whose hard work has been the cornerstone of our success. I look forward to seeing VirTra achieve even greater heights under John’s capable leadership.”
Givens has served as sole CEO of VirTra since August 2023, after serving as co-CEO alongside Ferris starting in May 2022. Givens has been a member of VirTra’s Board of Directors since November 2020. Previously, Givens helped to start, grow and sell a company in the military simulation market for $200 million. Under his leadership, VirTra has achieved significant milestones, including the consolidation of production into a state-of-the-art facility to streamline operations and boost production efficiency; progress in capturing military end-market opportunities; and the introduction of the V-XR™ headset-based training platform. His appointment as Chairman marks a natural progression in the Company’s evolution, aligning leadership roles with the strategic objectives aimed at driving long-term growth.
About VirTra, Inc.
VirTra (Nasdaq: VTSI) is a global provider of judgmental use of force training simulators and firearms training simulators for the law enforcement, military, educational and commercial markets. The company’s patented technologies, software, and scenarios provide intense training for de-escalation, judgmental use-of-force, marksmanship, and related training that mimics real-world situations. VirTra’s mission is to save and improve lives worldwide through practical and highly effective virtual reality and simulator technology. Learn more about the company at www.VirTra.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
The information in this discussion contains forward-looking statements and information within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which are subject to the “safe harbor” created by those sections. The words “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “expects,” “intends,” “may,” “plans,” “projects,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “predicts,” “potential,” “continue,” “would” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. We may not actually achieve the plans, intentions or expectations disclosed in our forward-looking statements and you should not place undue reliance on our forward-looking statements. Actual results or events could differ materially from the plans, intentions and expectations disclosed in the forward-looking statements that we make. The forward-looking statements are applicable only as of the date on which they are made, and we do not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements in this document are made based on our current expectations, forecasts, estimates and assumptions, and involve risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause results or events to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements. In evaluating these statements, you should specifically consider various factors, uncertainties and risks that could affect our future results or operations. These factors, uncertainties and risks may cause our actual results to differ materially from any forward-looking statement set forth in the reports we file with or furnish to the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). You should carefully consider these risks and uncertainties described and other information contained in the reports we file with or furnish to the SEC before making any investment decision with respect to our securities. All forward-looking statements attributable to us or persons acting on our behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.
Investor Relations Contact:
Matt Glover and Alec Wilson
Gateway Group, Inc.
949-574-3860