Team Profiles

Stephen Barela

Member

Stephen Barela is a Licensed Lead Investigator and Protective Security Expert with specialized training in advanced special operations tactics. With over eight years of service as a United States Navy SEAL, Mr. Barela is a decorated, combat-proven security professional dedicated to protecting lives and critical assets.

Mr. Barela brings over 15 years of successful leadership, team-building, and management experience, honed through multiple combat tours. As a small arms expert, HUMINT collector specialist, and TDC graduate, he played a pivotal role in Clandestine Operations, overseeing the safety of civilian and military team members while managing millions of dollars in advanced military assets.

Since joining Pilum Defense Agency, Mr. Barela has applied his HUMINT expertise to investigation services, setting higher performance standards, improving safety awareness, and enhancing productivity under demanding deadlines.

Awards and Honors:

  • Navy Commendation Medal with Combat “V”
  • Multiple Navy Achievement Medals (one with Combat “V”)
  • Multiple Combat Action Ribbons
  • Kuwait Liberation Medal
  • Humanitarian Service Medal

Professional Affiliations:

  • Rocky Mountain UDT/SEAL Association
  • Danny Dietz Leadership and Training Foundation

Firearms Training Certifications:

  • NRA Basic Instructor Training (BIT)
  • NRA Certified Pistol Instructor
  • NRA Certified Personal Protection in the Home Instructor
  • NRA Certified Personal Protection Outside the Home Instructor
  • NRA Certified Defensive Pistol Instructor
  • NRA Certified Rifle Instructor
  • NRA Certified Shotgun Instructor