Blue Tier Training Solutions
Iron Sharpens Iron
Welcome To
Blue Tier Training Solutions
Welcome to Blue Tier Training Solutions in Kansas City, Missouri! Founder Derek Ruffin has formed a facility unlike any other in the KC Metro, combining first responder training with Ground Zero Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Self-Defense. Catering to both martial artists and first responders, we consider Blue Tier not just a training facility, but also a learning facility! We have established an environment for fitness, education, and teamwork while empowering students with confidence to become leaders in the community. We invite everyone to join us for self-improvement in a welcoming and competitive atmosphere!
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About This School

About Our School
Blue TIER Training Solutions is one of the most distinctive self-defense and preparedness businesses in Kansas City. On one side, we offer classes focused on firearm training and first aid practice. On the other side, we offer martial arts classes in our Ground Zero Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Self-Defense gym. Founder Derek Ruffin leads the way for both, bringing them all together into one building. Ruffin has truly done it all. He has used his vast experience in law enforcement, the medical field, martial arts, and competitive fighting to create an atmosphere for it all under one roof. No matter if it’s training on the mats, close-quarters battle, or first aid, Blue TIER is THE place in the Metro to prepare yourself for critical situations!
History
Blue TIER Training Solutions opened in December 2019, establishing a unique spot in the Kansas City area. Founder Derek Ruffin started Blue TIER to provide training for law enforcement and first responders as well as realistic and safe self-defense for civilians. The namesake, TIER (Tactional, Integration and Emergency Response), combines Derek’s skills from his career experience. Derek has spent over 30 years in law enforcement, working in everything from SWAT to Executive Protection. He also has spent time on the medical side, working in psychological acute trauma and as an ER nurse. While serving as a first responder, Derek trained in martial arts for over 30 years, including five professional bouts, and has spent over 20 years teaching. Derek brings the different aspects of his life together to form Blue TIER into a place like no other.
Join us with our Law Enforcement discount!
We invite all Law Enforcement to take advantage of our discount!
What Sets Blue Tier Apart
At Blue TIER Training Solutions, we go beyond the basics. Our programs are built on principles that shape not just capable individuals—but stronger families, safer communities, and more confident leaders. These are the core values that guide every class, every lesson, and every student journey.
Our main focus is to teach our students to defend themselves. We teach about real-life situations and how to handle them properly.
This is not just a training facility but also a learning facility. Students seeking knowledge or experience are provided with it to the best of our abilities.
There is no facility like ours in Kansas City. The crossover between our martial arts and certification courses brings many different people together.
We do not believe in the “wolf-pack mentality” of hierarchy. Our philosophy is to get the new person better than you as fast as you can.
The tools students gain through us provide them with a stronger sense of self-reliance. We instill confidence into every person in every course so they become leaders in their communities.
Training is better together. From the mats to the range, we foster a tight-knit, supportive environment where relationships are built, trust is earned, and everyone is welcomed like family.

Take a look at our schedule!
Find the right time to add Blue TIER to your calendar!
What Our Students Are Saying
Everything we do at Blue TIER Solutions is to prepare students for real-world scenarios. With our combination of firearm training and martial arts classes, there is not another Kansas City training facility with the same amount of resources. And don’t just listen to us. See what our community has to say about what makes us special!
“My wife and I took the basic pistol training class and we loved it! Couldn’t recommend a better class or instructor for the beginner out there.”
“It is a great place for more advanced people to learn alongside complete beginners. I cannot recommend them more highly!”
“Derek has the ability to break down steps to help beginner students quickly pick up tasks in an effective and safe manner. “
“The instructors are thorough, patient and passionate about the subjects and the safety of their students. “
“If you want quality training from a quality instructor this is the place to go. This place is also great if you are looking for a conceal carry license and/or firearms training.”
Sign up for a free week of Jiu-Jitsu!
Join our BJJ program with a week of training ON US!

Contact Us Today!
Blue Tier Training Solutions welcomes everyone in the Kansas City Metro, including those nearby on Wornall, in Brookside and Waldo, and those further away in Olathe, North Kansas City, and Blue Springs. We are located in-between Brookside and Wornall road near the Trolley Trail!