Welcome to Ground Control Academy. I’m Deven Needles, the founder and head instructor of the academy. With many years experience working as a mechanical engineer and a passion for teaching, I bring a unique perspective to the world of martial arts. After a fantastic career as a mechanical engineer, I wanted to have a bigger impact on my community, so I chose to turn my sights from building strong bridges to building strong humans. I couldn’t be happier with my decision, as I now view everyday as an opportunity to have a positive impact on the trajectory of my students lives both mentally and physically.

Having worked as a high school and college math tutor for three years, and teaching music lessons outside my day job for over a decade, I understand the value of clear, systematic instruction to achieve success in any discipline. At Ground Control Academy, I leverage my engineering knowledge and teaching experience to break down complex Jiu Jitsu techniques into simple, understandable concepts. Whether you’re a parent looking to enroll your child in our programs or an adult seeking to train in our adult classes, you can be confident that our lessons are thoughtfully developed and carefully refined.

My dedication to Jiu Jitsu is unwavering; it is not just a sport to me, but a true passion. I spend countless hours developing lesson plans before each class, ensuring that our students receive the best training possible. I personally continue to train multiple times per week and actively compete in competition to continually refine my skills and knowledge. Ground Control Academy is more than just a martial arts school; it’s a place where discipline, camaraderie, and the joy of Jiu Jitsu come together to create a welcoming and empowering environment. Join us on the mats, and let’s embark on an exciting journey of learning, growth, and self-discovery.