Meet the Team at Mission94 Firearms Education Center!

Our team is dedicated to delivering a rich experience at a state-of-the-art facility with trainers and staff who are not only passionate about firearms education and training but are deeply committed to providing a secure and fulfilling learning environment for all visitors – from beginners to experienced enthusiasts.

Louis Southard

General Manager

Louis is a native of El Paso, Texas, and a seasoned professional in the firearms industry with over a decade of hands-on experience. Completely self-taught, Louis has developed an exceptional expertise in modern firearms, staying ahead of the curve with the latest advancements in firearm technology. His deep understanding of the industry is complemented by his relentless passion for innovation and precision, making him a respected authority in the field. 

In 2022, Louis further honed his leadership and strategic skills by earning an Executive Master of Business Administration from the University of Alabama. This advanced degree equipped him with a robust foundation in data-driven decision-making and a dynamic, lead-from-the-front approach to leadership. Louis’s unique blend of technical acumen and business insight allows him to effectively navigate the complexities of the firearms industry, driving growth and fostering innovation at every turn. 

Scot Loesch

Operations Manager

Scot brings a wealth of expertise, shaped by over 37 years of retail management experience, with nearly 15 years dedicated specifically to the firearms industry across both Illinois and Wisconsin markets. Born and raised in Lake County, IL, Scot has spent the last 15 years residing in Southeastern Wisconsin, becoming a highly respected figure within the region’s firearms community. A responsible firearms owner for over three decades, Scot’s passion for shooting began at the age of six when he first trained under the guidance of his father and grandfather.

In addition to his deep industry knowledge, Scot is a proud father of four and grandfather to five, actively passing on his legacy by teaching the next generation the principles of safe, responsible firearms ownership and techniques. His dedication to fostering safety, responsibility, and education within his family and the broader community underscores his commitment to the industry. Scot’s leadership, honed through years of hands-on experience, positions him as a trusted voice in both the retail and firearms sectors.

Chris Meter

Range Manager

Chris enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1999 at the age of 17 and went to boot camp immediately after high school graduation. He deployed in 2003 and was a part of Joint Task Force – Liberia, Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa, and operated in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom I & II. While deployed he served as an instructor in his unit for shotgun & machinegun employment, and the installation and operation of infrared laser targeting systems and night vision equipment.

He graduated from Northeastern Illinois University in 2017 with a double BA in History and Political Science. He is a graduate of the FBI Citizens Academy – Chicago Division, Class of 2019 and is a Board Member of the Police Commission & Police Pension Board in his hometown. He also has been an active member and board member of the American Legion for several years. He was previously employed at a military history museum, holding several positions and responsibilities. Currently, Chris is a certified firearms instructor in several disciplines, as well as a certified chief range safety officer.

Jacob Richmond

Retail Sales Manager

Jacob is a seasoned professional with over a decade of experience in firearms safety and education, certified by the California Department of Justice and the NRA since 2012. His career path has been marked by a commitment to service, beginning with his role as the Retail Manager at San Diego County’s largest gun store and indoor range in 2012, where he honed his skills in firearms sales, customer service, and industry knowledge. 

Following his time in San Diego, Jacob’s career took him to Yosemite National Park from 2016 to 2021, where he deepened his understanding of conservation and outdoor safety while strengthening his connection with nature and community.  Jacob also served as a Correctional Officer at the Kenosha Sheriff’s Department, where he enhanced his skills in safety and structured environments, significantly advancing his professional development with a focus on discipline and public safety. His diverse background provides a unique perspective on the responsibilities and implications of gun ownership in modern society. 

Jennifer Nienhaus

Training Manager

Jennifer comes to Mission94 Firearms Education Center with a wealth of information and drawing on years of experience from her professional and personal experiences. Originally from Illinois, after graduating from Illinois Wesleyan University, Jennifer worked as a researcher and project manager for an international human rights and humanitarian aid organization in war torn areas of Europe and Africa.

Jennifer has always been passionate about firearms and tracking her family history which dates to pre-Revolutionary America. Her sixth great-grandfather fought in the Revolutionary War, participating in the Battle of King’s Mountain, a key victory for the Americans. Her family history has led her to become an avid enthusiast, participating in muzzleloading at both club and NMLRA events, sporting clays and extreme long-distance rifles. Her current best for ELD is 2,900 yards! A passionate lifelong learner who believes there is always more to learn, Jennifer has earned certifications as NRA Certified Training Counselor, NRA Certified Chief Range Safety Officer, NMLRA Certified Trainer, USCCA Certified Instructor, USA Archery Certified Instructor, and A Girl & A Gun Certified Range Safety Officer. She enjoys teaching youth and new shooters to ensure the sport is safe and accessible to everyone.

Steven Deering

Membership Coordinator

Steve comes to Mission94 with over three decades of professional experience in manufacturing and distribution technology as an executive manager. As a Six Sigma-Lean practitioner, he has always had a customer focused approach to optimizing operational systems and processes and has helped lead multiple international start-up operations.

As an avid outdoorsman, that shoots, hunts, and camps with his family, Steve is extremely passionate about our Second Amendment rights and is thrilled to work with an organization that combines our nation’s history with modern training applications. Steve also possesses a servant leader’s heart and thoroughly enjoys community outreach projects that help serve the needs of our community, while living our values.