A Security Training Academy Inc

Fantastic experience: They are highly recommended for both new agents and renewals. The classroom experience and range experience are superb.

Negative experience: I would never in my life again us this guy made us drive out for no reason, His class is not even very educational and he’s very rude and disrespectful. I would not use this guy ever in my life. That was the most waste of $400 in my life. I promise, This guy has no clue about most of the Bail law. He only takes the paycheck and gives the license he doesn’t know Jack squat. At first, it was a great presentation Until you meet him then you see exactly why we don’t use him

Negative experience: He is absolutely horrendous and disrespectful. He also hosted an illegal renewal class for firearms and didn’t even show up to the range which is Hella unprofessional. He lies about information regarding bail enforcement agents I would never ever in my life uses gentleman again he’s very rude. I would definitely go somewhere else.

Fantastic experience: Great training. Knowledgeable instructors with the background that compliments their skills!

Negative experience: The instructor shows disrespect to students and shames foreigners for their poor English. If you're Muslim or African he'll keep offending you by throwing unnecessary words.

Negative experience: Stuff aredisrespectful. I don't even know how people like them , one of the worst customer services I've ever experienced in my life. Not Recommended

Fantastic experience: The security academy is one of the Best in VA. The instructors are honest and teach you the law how works. For 14 years as student I’m learning every time I take classes or tactical classes

Fantastic experience: Great knowledgeable teacher. Easy to follow course. Clean classroom

Fantastic experience: If you really want to learn this is the Academy for you! I have completed training through other schools before, but no one has come even close to Mr. Bonacci’s knowledge and experience in security training. Mr. Bonacci highly experienced instructor. If you go elsewhere you’ll just waste time. I have learned so much more than the course had to offer. Mr. Bonacci is a serious instructor, he doesn’t play games he teaches you straight to the point of what you need and have to know in the field you choose and so much more. So far I have completed three classes with him and will be coming back for more along with all in-service training as well in the future. I highly recommend this Academy.

Fantastic experience: In depth training. I gave 5 stars for the amount of care for the students and our safety, in depth training in DCJS matters, and most of all being able and prepared to answer any and all questions

Negative experience: My mom and brother was in your office this morning to renew mom private security services registration license.However, the service they got from one of your employee was disrespectful and below the standard of the company and also the employee was accusing my mom she got the license by bribing or informal way this totally unacceptable and a false accusation.About this false accusation we are discussing the matter with our family lawyer and we will get back you about the way forward. We were not accepting such kind of service from this respected company by such kind of igoanrat and incompetence employee for the company. We are really appreciate lookup the matter and we need a formal apology email or letter from the company.

Negative experience: Just was asking questions about when they do OC spray and baton training I realized it was an different security company for training in July I will be taking Armed Security Guard training in Fredericksburg but I was trying to figure out some info about when they do that type of training felt like the instructor was really aggressive to me. I just wanted to ask questions without feeling like getting my head bit off.

Fantastic experience: Great teaching and classes.

Fantastic experience: Is a great school for Private Security Training and he is funny and he gives you great scenarios for the job you are about to endure!!!!

Fantastic experience: Great Instructors, training and knowledge gained. I recommend all my colleagues and brother in arms to them. ✊

Fantastic experience: I took the unarmed security training with Joseph Bonacci. He is very knowledgeable and he is very friendly. He loves making jokes but he as no bad intentions. He simply trying to make you ready for real world. I strongly recommend this school for any training.

Fantastic experience: If there is any security training you need and want to know about security l, I suggest the Security Training Academy. You get all information you need. The instructor is an amazing person who has a lot of knowledge. It’s great!

Fantastic experience: Mr. Joseph was a great instructor! Made sure we ALL understood throughly everything being said! 10/10!

Fantastic experience: It’s been almost a year now , and I apologize that I didn’t write this review as soon as I got certified (private) and handgun. I’m curious about these erroneous 1-2 star reviews. Mr bonnaci as you can see when you do attend class has certain certifications that meet all standards and then-some. Yes he has a stern personality and once you get to know him during class he can loosen up and make you chuckle out loud ! But gets the job done!! It was a pleasure attending his classes! He even accomidate me becuase I already signed up for a class but caught COVID! Not a case! See I’m funny! Loosen up people life is short! This corporations is on fire! He gets all the info in and makes sure he takes the time to make sure you follow !! Being Latina in a formal but quaint professional setting was ideal! Being the range was also professional and a great class to take! Matter fact sir I’m coming to re- certify! And FYI he takes the time during class to answer the phone to answer your question , so is not that he is rude is that he is also teaching class and taking the time to take your calls! If anything this class is great , fun and he breaks it down so you can get accreditation ! Be on time ! And knock on the door before entering and you be on your way to whatever future you want to explore! Mad respect here!! Thank you sir! Sorry for the delay ! See you soon looking at the calendar soon!! Student Special X.Serrano

Negative experience: Bonacci is very unprofessional. A stern, all business demeanor is one thing. But the way I heard him speaking to people was unsatisfactory. Very full of himself.

Negative experience: Most unprofessional, bizarre call I've ever had while trying to ask for information about the in-classroom courses listed on the website. Joseph Bonacci wouldn't even let me complete a sentence before interrupting me because he was completely incapable of just listening to the point that I could not complete a sentence during the call with him. I felt like he was angry before he even answered the phone. He got so mad that he hung up... and I'm left thinking what in the world just happened...so bizarre. Extremely impatient, short-tempered, rude and overall, completely unprofessional. Definitely not ever attempting to do business with this business again.

Negative experience: WARNING!!! My coworkers and I (Security law enforcementofficers) registered online for the HR-218 (LEOSA) course and were informed by Joseph Bonacci, we’d be eligible. We paid a fee, received our “LEOSA Credentials”prior to testing just 75 rounds at a shooting range in Virginia and later realized we all had the exact same ID# on our cards. The cards do not even contain a photo. After questioning Mr. Bonacci and doing more research, I realized we had been mislead and that the cards he issued were completely fraudulent. I did this review in hopes that he won't mislead or con anyone else. I'm unsure about his other services; but am certain, in our case, the HR-218 cards he issued are of no use. If anyone has had a similar experience please write a review in hopes of exposing Mr. Bonacci.

Fantastic experience: I highly recommend A Security Training Academy Inc. in Annandale, VA. Instructor Bonacci has an energetic approach to teaching and holds a great deal of knowledge.

Fantastic experience: I have been in this field for more than 15yrs and being former Law Enforcement I know who has the ability to get the job done. Let me just say that Joseph is one of the best I have ever trained with and that’s just facts. I don’t leave reviews for nobody so for me to do this now, means he is somebody period. Best training ever. Security training is based on professionalism and common sense. Here they not only teach u that, but he makes sure you use it out in the field to safely protect yourself and others.

Negative experience: Poor training. Unprofessional attitude. Unarmed security guy that I took a virtual course with was a pretty rude, condescending blabbermouth, full of bluster. Half the time all he did was talk about himself and deride the other students with accents. Learned some things though, which is why the score isn't lower. Needs to be looked into though.

Fantastic experience: The security business is not what most people think. The images of a nondescript security guard giving directions at a mall, on patrol at an apartment complex, or checking bags at a concert are what most people imagine. But there's more to the job and the industry. A lot more. Security officers are professionals who serve a vital role and not one that is devoid of danger. A significant number are killed in the line of duty every year. Many because their training was inadequate or incomplete. It's a serious and hazardous business. A profession that can be unforgiving. So if you want to get into the business or keep your skills sharp, you need the best training available. The instructors at A Security Training Academy are the best in the Metropolitan DC area by far. They're tough and direct when it comes to learning your lessons, but that's what's needed if you're going to succeed and survive. They're in business to prepare you for some very serious work and how to get the job done correctly, professionally, and, of course, safely. The owner of A Security probably has more security-related qualifications than anyone in the region. And his team of instructors is every bit as dedicated to the students' success as he is. I've attended several classes at the school for various disciplines: Armed Security, Patrol Rifle, Tactical Handcuffing, Baton Usage, Pepper Spray Deployment, and Basic First Aid. At the end of every course, I knew I was not only more effective at doing my job, but I was also a more desirable employee at any security company I went to work for. Don't take chances with instructors or schools that are less experienced and knowledgeable. If you're entering a no-nonsense business like security or are continuing your education in the field, you need a no-nonsense approach to learning the trade. Your success, and your life, depend on it.

Fantastic experience: I have been going to Joseph for security training for 10+ years. He has always taken care of me and i definitely enjoy his classes. Thanks again Joseph

Fantastic experience: I took a CPR class. Scheduling for the class and location were perfect. Joseph's delivery style was conducted in an informative, practical, and professional manner. I highly recommend taking CPR classes at A Security Training Academy, Inc.

Fantastic experience: Joseph Bonacci & his Academy staff are the main reason for choosing your training in security. He is former Army & NYPD & his education of not just the law, but safety is #1 & what is instilled in his students. The courses you can take are endless & will allow you to go into the field confidently.

Fantastic experience: Very professional and thorough, covers all aspects of training. Great school, great instructors! Highly recommend!!

Fantastic experience: I met Joseph in 2008 and he introduced me to the security industry which intrigued me. I began taking classes in 2008 and have taken all my new/In-service classes with Joseph. Joseph is a excellent teacher and has a true passion in all he does. I HIGHLY recommend Joseph/A Security Training Academy for all you entry-level and in-service security needs.

Fantastic experience: All the years I’ve been using this training academy it only gets better in my opinion you will not find a more knowledgeable instructor that is so passionate about his role and getting officers prepared for duty anywhere thanks again

Fantastic experience: Both my associate and I have taken our training and recertification courses here with great experiences. The courses are straightforward, reasonably priced, and Joe is always responsive and helpful.

Fantastic experience: I highly recommend this private security school. Outstanding security training academy for my initial DCJS training and in-service training. I have gone back for my in-service for the past 2 yrs. Mr. Bonaci and his staff are former LEO's and military professionals. They are all NRA & DCJS veteran firearms instructors and take the time necessary with each student to do it the right way. They are all about safe & proper training. Quality training and professionalism is what they represent.

Fantastic experience: I took my training with Joseph to get my concealed Carry Permit and he made sure I was equipped with the knowledge I needed. He is very entertaining in his training method which makes you pay attention. Great instructor and when it's time to renew I will be going back

Fantastic experience: I have been training with Joseph for several years. He is extremely knowledgeable and is able to effortlessly and effectively communicate his knowledge to his students. I highly recommend A Security Training Academy, Inc.

Fantastic experience: I took multiple courses with ASTAI a few months ago, the training I received at this academy was worth every penny. My instructor Mr. Bonacci gave me detailed descriptions and knowledge from his experience of all job duties/expectations and what I was/wasn’t allowed to do per state law. He was by far the most knowledgeable individual that I have received training from. He stands behind his work and ASTAI. I have recommended him and this academy to multiple people since graduating from his facility. I would highly encourage people in the Northern VA area to take a course with with Mr. Bonacci and the ASTAI team.

Fantastic experience: A security academy is a respectable business with professional staff and the best pricing.- shamari mapp

Fantastic experience: I renewed my annual firearms qualification with Joseph a while back and remembered why I sought him out after being away for several years- he is professional, attentive, safe, and reliable. For anyone looking to renew their LEOSA (HR-218) qualification, be sure to check out Joseph at Security Training Academy. Definitely going back when it’s time to re-qualify. Great prices, great service, and easy to schedule.

Negative experience: It's really not a good place for learning, very bad and meaningless.

Fantastic experience: Have taken class from this institute before. The online sessions are pretty straight forward but received pretty quick responses to the inquiries and the class completion was sent to the DCJS quickly. Recommend.

Fantastic experience: Mr. Joseph Bonacci is one of ''The Best Security Training'' out in market. I have been in his training classes since 2012. Mr. Bonacci's study material, hands on experience and training program are impeccable. I do wish him the best.

Fantastic experience: I was there today to get my 01I training to renew my DCJS. Amazing company. Joseph was professional. Thank you

Fantastic experience: Best place too come to get these type of training

Positive experience: This instructor give you training that you really need to do the Job.

Fantastic experience: I highly recommend this online security school

Fantastic experience: I highly recommend this company to those seeking security training. Lead instructor brought real world knowledge and experience to the class, drawing from his previous careers in the US military and law enforcement.

Fantastic experience: I just had a 2 day training in this wonderful academy. My instructor was Mr. Joseph Bonacci and he is a very intelligent, profession individual. I definitely recommend this place for anyone who is interested in anything in the security field. It was a great experience! Thanks so much! Sabri A. Gouda

Fantastic experience: Fantastic training staff!! A wealth of knowledge, both academic as well as real life experience.

Fantastic experience: I liked the training process and the Instructor who conducted the training. I learned a lot from them. I recommend you guys to consider this academy.

Fantastic experience: Mr. Bonacci is very knowledgeable about the Private Security World, his courses are broken down so they are easy to understand and remember. I am taking another course with him, and I highly recommend to anyone looking for training.

Fantastic experience: Online class was simple, quick, and to the point. Very user friendly. Range instruction was clear, accurate, and by the book.

Fantastic experience: Online registration, class and content were quick and easy. Highly recommend for online re-cert for those individuals with limited time for classroom attendance.

Fantastic experience: Great class and passed the course. The course used all of the technology to teach . The instruction was great he knows the subject and content areas and he demonstrated honesty, loyalty and integrity.

Fantastic experience: Joseph is very knowledgeable! Highly recommend and will deff. return for my in-service training!

Fantastic experience: Great instructor, informative class! I highly recommend A Security Training Academy

Fantastic experience: I have been going to Joseph for over ten years. I would not go to another School, nor would I send my Officers to another School. His experience and knowledge in Law Enforcement and with DCJS requirements, makes him stand above any other school I have checked into, before signing up for his classes. His prices are fair and the training is great!

Fantastic experience: It is very convenient to complete my required training online.

Fantastic experience: Best Academy, I love it

Negative experience: Disregard all the 5 stars reviews. He sent email to everyone and ask them to write a review in return for 15% discount. Just read all the 1 star reviews or just simply call him and ask him about info on any classes and he will yell and belittle you like he is a drill sergeant

Fantastic experience: The online class was very easy to use. Information was presented very well. The online class & exam was at a fair price.

Fantastic experience: I have used A Security Training Academy for numerous years to recertify my DCJS licenses and registrations. The courses are reasonably priced and contain up-to-date material for a long list of specialties. Training with A Security Training Academy was a welcome change from the traditional classroom setting. I enjoyed the self-paced format and the fact that you must maintain a proficient knowledge of your current specialties during testing. I will continue to utilize these guys as long as I am associated with the DCJS.

Fantastic experience: Great training school! Ive taken several courses with them over the past 10 years and Ive always had a great experience. Knowledgable instructors that teach beyond whats required for licensing.

Fantastic experience: Online experience was awesome. DCJS was updated almost automatically.

Fantastic experience: My initial training and subsequent renewals were at A Security Training Academy Inc. Instructors and Staff are professional & concise during the student’s preparation for required tests. Numerous classes offered at convenient Annandale, VA location in comfortable classrooms. Highly satisfied and recommended.

Fantastic experience: I have done most of my DCJS training and re-certification with Joseph. I think he was first with the online courses and does a great job. Classes are no nonsense and professional. Handgun training is top notch.Prices are fair and they have been very helpful with last minute needs. All in all a very good place for DCJS training.

Fantastic experience: This guy's an expert, was very informative.

Fantastic experience: This is my second time I have trained with Security Training Academy, Inc. The first time was two years ago. That training was extensive with 16 classroom hours and 2 hours of range testing. Each phase was thorough and comprehensive. You want to learn safe and effective firearms training, then attend Security Training Academy.

Fantastic experience: This is a great career institution. Very lively instructor and very amazing to attend.

Fantastic experience: It was an amazing experience and the instructor was super amazing too, cause he will give good information details and the classroom is wonderful.

Fantastic experience: Great location in Annandale. Instructor very knowledgeable and accurate. Price is affordable

Fantastic experience: He is an excellent instructor.

Negative experience: Just Called to ask a question about training and the guy that answered the phone was so rude.

Fantastic experience: Mr. Bonacci is a very experienced and well-informed instructor. He's been in this business for a while. I would highly recommend this school for anyone looking to get into Security.

Fantastic experience: Joseph is a good instructor and he has a wealth of knowledge I recommend this place for those who want take entry class and advance class as security career .

Fantastic experience: BEST SCHOOL in the DMV

Negative experience: It's a better out there then this place...

Negative experience: Poor staff and instructor worst customer service

Fantastic experience: Great classes !!!

Positive experience: Great class , I rate It A 5 out of a 5 If you're offended easily Just remember you are here to learn not to make friends,So don't be a Snowflake .

Positive experience: If you need to get security guard training, come here. Ignore these but hurt people

Negative experience: Unprofessionals and disrespectful all of them. I wouldn't suggest this place to get training .

Negative experience: They’re so disrespectful and rude. Bad customer service.

Negative experience: I contacted this outfit (thinking it was something else) to look into getting a DC concealed permit. In my contact, I outlined that I have had a VA concealed permit and therefore training, which may have taken place with this outfit. The reason I thought that is that I found the contact information on a DC website, and the information was linked to Sharp Shooters. I know I had done my initial training near Springfield, and thus the site could have been Shooters (Lorton). In my contact with STA, I asked if there is a work-around the DC training because of my VA permit and my training. My contact person took it mean I was trying to skirt the law. What I was asking, is, if there is some kind of in-place protocol where someone in my position could simply take a written test and demonstrate safe handling of a firearm.

Negative experience: Called to ask about a program on the website. I'm new in the security field and was seeking info on the proper steps to reach my goal (which classes to take in what order.) The rep, misquoted me three times on a question, then begins to get aggravated (just 25 seconds into the call.) Hot tempered customer service rep that I hope wasn't an instructor. Sounds like he would be though. Unprofessional.

Fantastic experience: Instructor was the best let you know what was what no usher coating I plan on going back for more classes soon

Fantastic experience: Was the best!!! Although he can come off pretty harsh in the beginning if your not use to it but hell I look forward for more classes. I would recommend him if your a cry baby dont bother. His attitude gets you ready for the real world. Yet he is very helpful I enjoyed it alot!

Positive experience: Joseph is a good instructor and has a wealth of knowledge. He's a pioneer in the PSS industry in VA. He might come off strong sometimes, but if you don't have thick skin, the security industry isn't for you.

Fantastic experience: An incredible experience, the instructor is very knowledgeable. IF your looking to broaden your horizon and get a better understanding for the security field and other fields in which he teaches you couldn't find a better place. Definitely worth 5 stars and a whole bunch of thumbs-ups.

Negative experience: DON'T WAIST YOUR TIME AND MONEY!!! I had the displeasure of attempting to have a professional conversation with the Owner/Trainer. I found it to be a complete waste of my time. I tried calling this individual to ask about specific training dates and times. This mental midget immediately went into a tirade, yelling if I had bothered to check the schedule. I told him that I wasn't going to deal with has attitude and hung up the phone. Had this guy been professional enough to listen to my question he may have found out that I had in fact checked the schedule but I was trying to ascertain whether classes could be taken on different days/weeks and not back to back as he had provided in his schedule. I wasn't even trying to find out this info for myself but for several other people. I'm a former instructor who was attempting to send business his way. Thankfully I chose a more professional and reputable training academy. I find it ironic that people have to give reviews and explain this individuals nasty demeanor as normal because of what he's been through. There are numerous security trainers that don't have to demean and bark at people to attempt to get their point across. It's called being professional. If the owner/instructor can't even be tactful with potential customers it's rather obvious he will only act worse when training you. No one deserves to be instructed this way. It's best to move on and be properly trained in a relaxing easy to learn atmosphere...

Fantastic experience: I have been working in the private security industry for 5 years. I have worked several different contracts , Government , music industry ( Personal Protection Officer ) etc.... I have a wide range of training , including being a Army Veteran ( 19 kilo ) and the training in hand to hand / weapons and tactics and with all that training I expect to not learn much BUT I learned a lot from the instructor. Tactics and security procedures I had no idea about. Real world approach style teaching method I enjoyed. I would highly recommend this Training School to anybody wanting real security training and their prices are also better then the other security training facilities in the area by far.

Negative experience: Extremely unprofessional and disrespectful... I had a simple question in regards to their training services, and rather than simply answering.... The guy bust into a tirade of slanderous and defacing remarks. Well I'm sorry sir, but if you can not simply answer my question, then I do not need you as an instructor, I will look elsewhere! My question was, if I become registered as an armed guard, does that qualify me to work in unarmed positions? Rather than answering my question, he was extremely rude, provocative, and if I had to take a gander... I would venture it's safe to say he's quite displeased with his life, as who else would just simply off the bat be so piss-poor rude? Rudeness/crudeness in the presence of friends is one thing... But to address a potential trainee that is asking questions about your training in such a demeanor... I recommend looking elsewhere

Fantastic experience: Joseph Bonacci is a real base Training instructor. He brings reality to the classroom and some people can't handle it because they're not used to getting reality in a classroom setting. At first I had to get used to his training style but once I learn what he's about and his background I understood everything. I did training with him for 3 weeks straight. For those people who are not used to reality based training in a classroom setting this classroom is not for them. He trains us how things are going to be in real life and through personal experience that he's gone through. I hope to go back to him for more training. If you go just to an 8 hour class you really won't get to know him but since I sat through three weeks of his class I kind of got to know him on a professional level only.

Negative experience: The state mandated curriculum and material learned are wonderful. However the trainer I learned from had the most unprofessional teaching style I have ever had the misfortune of experiencing. I refrained from asking or answering questions after my first 8 hours with Instructor Bonacci due to his often volatile reactions. I personally witnessed him call classmates ‘idiot’ and he would answer personal calls during active session. Unless they get some different Instructors, don’t go to this academy unless you enjoy unprofessional Instructors. I will heavily research my next training business, and I will never use this company again solely due to my interactions with Instructor Bonacci at A Security Training Academy.

Negative experience: The most dishonest training academy I've ever seen. I registered online for a class that had already started.The system still let me register.When I called the trainer, he basically told me I can neither do that class,nor get a refund for my money. I had to file a complain at the VA attorney general office to get my refund. I wouldn't recommend this academy to anybody.