Covenant Training Group delivers practical, experience-driven training for those who take preparedness seriously. Our name reflects a promise to protect — a commitment that guides our standards and instruction. The goal is simple: prepare capable people to respond effectively when it counts.
OUR MISSION
Meet the team
Nate Garza is the Founder of Covenant Training Group (CTG), CTG is committed to developing disciplined protectors through reality-based instruction. Leading a cadre of experienced operators, he delivers modern tactics and performance-based training for law enforcement, security professionals, and responsibly armed citizens.
With over a decade of law enforcement experience and a full-time SWAT assignment since 2016, Garza serves as a SWAT Team Leader and Instructor specializing in high-risk operations, tactical planning, hostage rescue, breaching, and night vision deployments. He is known for translating real-world experience into practical training that prepares personnel for rapidly evolving critical incidents.
Garza holds a Master Peace Officer certification and is the recipient of the National Tactical Officers Association’s Spirit of SWAT Award and the Unit Excellence Award, reflecting his ongoing commitment to elevating professional standards and operational readiness.
Nate Garza
Michael Smith is a seasoned law enforcement professional and Primary Instructor at Covenant Training Group, bringing combat-proven military experience and over a decade of service in Law Enforcement. He began his career in the United States Marine Corps as an 0311 Infantry Rifleman, completing combat deployments to Iraq in 2006 and 2008 before transitioning into law enforcement, where he quickly established himself as a respected tactical operator.
A Master Peace Officer and senior member of the SWAT team, Smith serves as a SWAT Team Leader and Instructor, where he has played a pivotal role in planning and executing complex operations, including assignments with the Texas Anti-Gang Violent Crimes Task Force. Known for his steady leadership and operational discipline, he has instructed Basic and Advanced SWAT courses while helping develop capable, mission-ready personnel.
Smith specializes in close-quarters battle, hostage rescue, and critical decision-making in high-risk environments. His professionalism, courage, and unwavering commitment to service have earned him the Medal of Valor — a reflection of both his character and his dedication to protecting others while preparing the next generation of tactical professionals.
Michael Smith