Adam and Kyle's Story
Adam and Kyle, the founders of Modern Safety Solutions, crossed paths while serving in the United States Air Force. With over 30 years of combined service, they developed a passion for community service and education through teaching security topics to various groups. Following their retirement, they identified a need for high-quality security resources in the Capital Region, and created Modern Safety Solutions. Their program aims to continue public service, enhance personal safety, and support the local community with affordable resources. As a disabled-veteran owned and operated business, Adam and Kyle are dedicated to leading the team to improve the security of business, healthcare, houses of worship, schools, and community organizations.
Kyle DeFeo
Founder
Master Sergeant (Retired) Kyle DeFeo served in the United States Air Force for 21 years and held several managerial roles. As the Unit Training Manager, he was charged with the educational development of a 70+ member police force. He held the position of Installation Security Section Manager in which he oversaw the physical security and written policies for his base. Additionally, Kyle was appointed as the Chief of Standardization and Evaluation Section where he acted as a quality control officer for the police force and the base’s emergency response procedures. Kyle has been a federally certified instructor since 2004 and a New York State certified instructor since 2011. In 2010, Kyle began his specialization in active shooter training that yielded hundreds of hours of instructor-level training from the nation’s premier agencies. In 2006, Kyle became an Exercise Evaluation Team member, and in 2013, joined the Wing Inspection Team. As a member and director of multiple evaluation teams, Kyle gained expertise in planning, executing, reporting, and the debriefing of scenario and classroom training. It is this expertise that Kyle focuses onto Modern Safety Solutions. Kyle strives to enhance community safety by providing proven and tested security and safety resources.
Adam Podbielski
Founder
Staff Sergeant (Retired) Adam Podbielski served in the United States Air Force for over a decade. During his time, he served as a supervisor and team member for multiple key positions logging hundreds of hours in classroom and hands-on training. Adam became certified as a New York State Peace Officer and participated in numerous Active Shooter courses and exercises. While in Korea, he participated in one of the largest training exercises in the world with the 353rd Special Operations Group. Adam also deployed in support of Operational Inherent Resolve where he was appointed as a team lead responsible for the planning, coordinating, equipping, and the safety of teams in combat zones while providing security for aircraft, crew members, and cargo. In Adam’s most recent role as Flight Sergeant, he managed the day-to day police activities for a 13-person shift. He was also a member of the Standard and Evaluation Section where he assisted in drafting policies and procedure for safety, security, and training topics. Adam conducted and evaluated large scale training exercises and specialized in training new military personnel. Specifically, he trained individuals with little to no experience and transformed them into fully competent and confident members. Adam’s experiences motivated him to craft Modern Safety Solutions LLC. He is excited to continue his support of local communities to enhance their safety and preparedness for various potential threats.
Teresa Norfolk
Director of Research & Education
Teresa brings over 30 years of experience in education and a unique practitioner's perspective to the field of school safety and security. Her extensive background includes roles as a teacher, public school administrator, and college professor that provides her with a top to bottom comprehension of educational operations. Teresa holds a Bachelor's degree in Education, Master's degrees in Curriculum Development, Educational Technology, and Educational Leadership. Her academic background is complemented by her practical experience in creating and implementing training programs for self-awareness, self-management, and responsible decision-making. As the former Director of Programs for Youth at Risk for Chenango County, she successfully developed initiatives that enhanced student and staff safety and well-being. Throughout her career, Teresa conducted extensive research in training and resources, and developed effective curricula for school administrators and staff members. She presented her findings and strategies at regional, national, and international education conferences. Teresa utilizes a practical approach, making complex topics accessible and engaging with a sense of humor. Her direct experience with school security and safety, coupled with her deep understanding of the unique needs of schools and their personnel, makes Teresa an asset to the Modern Safety Solutions’ team. She is adept at connecting with educators and staff, and ensures that security measures are not only effective but also seamlessly integrated into the school environment.