Herfel “Boots” Torres
Chief Operating Officer | Master Law Enforcement Firearms Instructor | Author of The Science of Marksmanship
Herfel “Boots” Torres is Valortec’s Chief Operating Officer, a senior firearms educator, and a competitive shooter with more than 30 years of experience in firearms, public safety, and professional training. His approach integrates firearms safety, marksmanship fundamentals, human performance, and sound defensive decision-making. He works with civilian students, security professionals, and law enforcement personnel seeking structured, accountable instruction.
Professional Firearms Instructor Qualifications
Herfel’s professional background includes instructor development, handgun and rifle education, range operations, and security training. His qualifications listed by Valortec include:
- NRA law enforcement and private security instructor credentials, including Law Enforcement Handgun/Firearms Instructor and Private Security Firearms Instructor training.
- NRA pistol, rifle, and range safety credentials, including Range Safety Officer and Chief Range Safety Officer.
- GLOCK qualifications, including GLOCK MOS Instructor, Instructor, Operator, and Advanced Armorer.
- ASP instructor training and additional education in civilian response to active shooter events and public-health emergency awareness.
- Professional involvement with instructor education organizations including IALEFI, NLEFIA, and ILEETA.
He has also participated in the Tactical Hyve Pistol Level 1 instructor program. Credentials and training assignments should be considered in relation to the specific course being delivered.
Author of The Science of Marksmanship
Herfel authored The Science of Marksmanship to explain marksmanship through biomechanics, visual processing, motor learning, neuromuscular control, and the effects of stress. The book reflects a central Valortec principle: accuracy and safe firearms handling improve through deliberate practice, meaningful feedback, and sound instruction—not equipment purchases alone.
Teaching Philosophy: Safety, Science, and Measurable Performance
Herfel emphasizes safe firearm handling, correct technical foundations, thoughtful decision-making, and progressive instruction adapted to each learner. Rather than treating a passing qualification as proof of mastery, he focuses on repeatable skills and the ability to identify and correct performance problems.
Valortec’s educational programs include advanced law enforcement firearms instructor development and private group firearms training. Availability and instructor assignments depend on the class.
Learn More About Valortec Training
Explore Valortec’s instructor team, view training locations in Lakeland and New Smyrna Beach, or browse current firearms classes. The academy also maintains an editorial and AI use policy for its published educational materials.