About MRJ Strategy
Jeffrey 'OJ' Sylvester is the founder and lead instructor of MRJ Strategy, bringing nearly two decades of experience in coaching, training, and strategic communication to the field of personal safety and emergency preparedness. His background in market research and education shapes a teaching style that’s clear, methodical, and engaging — blending analytical insight with hands‑on practice to prepare students for real‑world situations.
Jeffrey is a USCCA Certified Instructor with multiple certifications, including Non-Lethal Tools for Self-Defense and Range Safety Officer, has completed the Rangemaster Instructor Development and Certification course, and holds multiple HSI instructor certifications, including Active Violence Immediate Response Training (AVIRT) and CPR/AED/First Aid. He has invested hundreds of hours in firearms training, tactical education, and protection strategies, continually expanding his knowledge to ensure students receive current, practical guidance across both lethal and non‑lethal tools.
His instruction emphasizes clarity, confidence, and real‑world readiness. Whether working with first‑time gun owners, workplace teams, or community organizations, Jeffrey empowers individuals to think clearly, act decisively, and prioritize safety under pressure. Students consistently describe his training as supportive, practical, and confidence‑building — equipping them not only with skills, but with the mindset to use them responsibly.
Practical training. Real‑world readiness.


"Excellent instructor. Not only Informative but he made it enjoyable."
★★★★★
"Very well done. Interesting, informative, and thorough."
★★★★★
★★★★★
"Very professional- class was taught and questions answered in a way you could understand"
★★★★★
★★★★★
"Instructor was great! Very knowledgeable and patient."
"Great instructor made the class fun and was very knowledgeable."
See more student feedback on the USCCA Instructor Profile page
Our Location
Conveniently based in Urbana, IL, we bring hands-on safety training right to you throughout Central Illinois in Champaign, Vermilion, Edgar, Douglas, Coles, Piatt, Macon, DeWitt, McLean, Ford, Christian, Sangamon, and Lincoln counties.

Ready to train? Let's talk.






