Instructor Spotlight: Patrick Diedrich

We take a closer look at the experience and achievements behind Vargöld CEO and Instructor Patrick Diedrich, and what his self-reliance goals are.

Written by: Patrick Diedrich
Updated on:
Patrick Diedrich discusess search details on a whiteboard resting on the bed of his truck.

Writing about oneself is an odd thing. These “Instructor Spotlights” are meant to highlight the experience and knowledge being infused into each Vargöld course. So on one hand, touting a long list of achievements is a testament to the caliber of instructors who are posting course material: on the other hand, it kind of seems like bragging when you’re in the position of writing your own bio.

That being said, having traveled around the sun a few dozen times—and having a resume that reflects as much—is nothing to sneeze at. And, if i’m being honest, it’s easy to forget just how much you can accomplish over the years if you tend to be intellectually curious type. Constantly wanting to learn how to perform a new task or develop new skill is a surefire way to walk the Jack-of-all-trades path, and sometimes its worth taking a look back and assessing just how much capability you’ve developed over time.

Without further ado, in an effort to provide a glimpse into my professional background, I’ve written about myself in the third-person:

A Brief History of Patrick Diedrich

Patrick Diedrich stands as a humble figure in the world of self-reliance and preparedness, offering a wealth of knowledge that reaches back over several decades. Although he does not consider himself an expert, or a master of anything in particular, he has a broad range of experience ranging from tech to primitive survival. His journey into survival and tactical expertise was kindled in the 1990s during his time with the Boy Scouts, where he first embraced the ethos of being prepared.

As the new millennium dawned, Patrick expanded his horizons by serving as a supervisor at a homeless shelter, kindling a growing desire to help and educate others in crisis situations. His commitment to service deepened when he joined the Army as a Cavalry Scout. Here, he honed his skills in tactical reconnaissance and survival, laying the groundwork for his future endeavors. While serving full-time as an active duty soldier, he was able to earn a bachelor’s degree, and numerous professional certifications and awards. During his initial enlistment, he was stationed in Louisiana when hurricane Katrina struck the state, and was tasked to perform numerous humanitarian aid missions.

Instructor Patrick Diedrich in the turret of a military vehicle.
As a young Cavalry Scout, Patrick learned the ropes of both mounted and dismounted reconnaissance, utilizing all sorts of high-speed gear.

In and around the 2010s, Patrick deployed to the Middle East, where he engaged in urban reconnaissance, security, and counter-terrorism operations. Throughout this time, not only did he train soldiers for the punishing realities of combat abroad, he also helped train foreign soldiers on important battlefield tactics. These intense years in volatile environments enriched his understanding of survival tactics in both urban and remote areas, experiences that he would later channel into his teaching and writing.

Patrick in the turret of a Stryker combat vehicle.
During the time spent deployed to active war zones in the Middle East, Patrick performed and supervised a myriad of combat operations.

Entering the 2020s, Patrick diversified his professional pursuits by attending grad school, operating a consulting forestry business and crafting custom knives, each venture deepening his connection with the natural world and survival arts. Additionally, he began sharing his extensive knowledge through articles for Recoil Offgrid—and other media outlets like Backwoods Survival Guide and Survivopedia—addressing a broad audience eager to learn about self-reliance.

Deep in the remote wilderness of the Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Patrick provided land management services as a Consulting Forester.

During this time, he also saw himself take on the role of Training Officer for Superior Search and Rescue, a volunteer organization that focused heavily on wilderness SAR operations. It is this training curriculum that many of the Vargöld online courses are based off of. He was also certified to teach Dr. Bob Koesters Lost Person Behavior—a methodology for locating missing persons that has become the corner stone for search efforts around the globe—and Project Lifesaver, a technology and methodology for locating missing people with special needs.

Photo of Patrick shaking hands with Dr. Robert Koester after completing the Lost Person Behavior Train the Trainer course.
Patrick shaking hands with Dr. Robert Koester after learning to teach his world-renowned class, “Lost Person Behavior.” Afterwards, he went on to this life saving knowledge with first responders a law enforcement throughout the state of Michigan.

In the classroom, Patrick’s approach is dynamic and rooted in real-world applications. He combines theoretical knowledge with practical exercises, often sharing personal anecdotes that add depth and authenticity to his lessons. His recounting of past experiences, like those during Hurricane Katrina disaster recovery operations, underscore the real-world impacts of preparedness and the human aspect of survival training.

Photo of Larry Roberts with Patrick Diedrich standing in the Lake Linden Forest during SAR Survival training.
As Training Officer, Patrick wanted his SAR team to learn survival skills from the very best. By coordinating with subject matter experts like Larry Roberts, his team was set up for success during wilderness SAR operations.

Patrick’s teaching philosophy is simple: equip individuals with the knowledge and skills to protect themselves and their loved ones against uncertainties. He emphasizes the importance of staying informed and adaptable, as the landscape of survival is continuously evolving.

Outside the classroom, Patrick’s influence stretches across the digital landscape, where he shares tactical and survival wisdom with an online community. His insights help demystify the often-intimidating world of emergency preparedness, making it accessible and practical for everyone.

Through his diverse experiences and deep commitment to teaching and mentoring, Patrick Diedrich not only educates but also inspires a community of resilient, informed individuals ready to face any challenge. His life’s mission—to improve the human condition—is not just reflected in his actions but also in the lasting impact of his teachings. He continues to to be a lifelong learner and is always looking for new ways to level-up!

In the News

Patrick Diedrich has been recognized for his significant contributions to supporting the local community through the military and search and rescue operations, as highlighted by several news outlets. His leadership in integrating Project Lifesaver equipment into Superior Search and Rescue’s training programs was featured in ABC10UP‘s article, “Superior Search and Rescue Begins Training With Project Lifesaver Equipment.” Additionally, the Mining Gazette covered his efforts in “Learning to Search – Superior Search and Rescue Trains with New Project Lifesaver Equipment,” and UP Matters reported on the training event he led in their piece, “Superior Search and Rescue Holds Training Event For New Project Lifesaver Technology.”

Front page of a local newspaper, with Patrick Diedrich leading a group of ROTC students on a run.
After the Boston Marathon Bombing, Patrick lead a morale run with Team Red, White and Blue and several ROTC cadets in solidarity with all of those who were affected by the tragedy.

Education

Patrick Diedrich has achieved numerous milestones throughout his career, leveraging his extensive education and experience to make significant contributions across various fields.

During his studies, Patrick created an exhaustive forest management plan for Weyerhaeuser, showcasing his ability to apply academic knowledge to real-world scenarios. He also delivered a public presentation on managing forests to attract whitetail deer, demonstrating his expertise in wildlife management and public speaking.

Patrick developed a comprehensive training program for Superior Search and Rescue, enhancing the organization’s operational effectiveness. His commitment to research and knowledge sharing is evident in his authorship of a research paper on local ethnobotany, which provided valuable insights into the traditional uses of plants in his region.

Further showcasing his dedication to education, Patrick designed several graduate-level courses on outdoor subjects, including planning for a wilderness excursion and using a dichotomous key to identify flora, equipping students with both practical and theoretical knowledge. Additionally, his research on the strength of cross-laminated timber in commercial construction applications has advanced understanding in the field and influenced construction practices.

Academic Achievements

  • Master of Business Administration – Michigan Technological University
  • Post Graduate STEM Education Certificate – Michigan Technological University
  • Masters of Forestry – Michigan Technological University
  • Bachelors of Science: Computer Information Systems – Post University

Training, Certifications, and Awards

Patrick Diedrich’s journey began with his rigorous training as a Cavalry Scout, completing the One Station Unit Training with distinction. His dedication and skill earned him the esteemed Order of the Spur, setting the stage for a remarkable career marked by continuous professional development and leadership.

Throughout his career, Patrick has undertaken numerous leadership and specialized courses, enhancing his expertise and broadening his capabilities. These include:

  • Primary Leadership Development Course
  • Combat Lifesavers Course
  • Center Commander Course
  • Basic Non Commissioned Officer Course
  • Army Recruiter Course
  • Advanced Non Commissioned Officer Course
  • Senior Leaders Course

Patrick’s pursuit of excellence is further demonstrated by his completion of advanced training programs such as Composite Risk Management, Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention Training, and the Electronic Warfare Officer Course, among others. His proficiency in specialized areas is evidenced by his qualifications in the LRAS3 Operator Course and the ITAS Crew Training Course.

International Recognition and Technical Expertise

Patrick’s expertise extends internationally, recognized by the German Armed Forces with prestigious military badges:

  • Urkunde für das Deutsche Sportabzeichen (German Armed Forces Physical Fitness Badge)
  • Urkunde für Leistungen im Truppendienst in Gold (German Armed Forces Proficiency Badge)

His technical acumen is further highlighted by his General Radiotelephone Operator License (GROL) and multiple certifications from the Electronics Technicians Association (ETA), including:

  • Certified Residential Electronics Systems Integrator
  • Certified Fiber Optics Technician
  • Certified Fiber Optics Installer
  • Certified Electronics Technician B-VoIP
  • Certified RESI Networking Endorsement
  • Certified Computer Service Technician
  • Certified Network Computer Technician
  • Certified Wireless Network Technician

Commitment to Professional Development

Patrick has consistently sought to enhance his knowledge and skills through comprehensive training programs. His coursework with the Marine Corps Institute (MCI) includes Electronics Mathematics for Marines, Solid State Devices, and Antenna Construction and Propagation of Radio Waves. Additional professional development includes:

  • Social Media and Operations Security Training
  • Information Assurance Fundamentals
  • Soldier Record Brief Training
  • Phishing Training
  • Antiterrorism Awareness Training
  • Threat Awareness and Reporting Program
  • OPSEC Awareness for Military Members, DOD Employees, and Contractors
  • NSC Defensive Driving Course
  • Mission Assurance for Senior Leaders

Recognition and Awards

Patrick’s outstanding service has been recognized through numerous awards and medals, underscoring his dedication and valor:

  • Army Commendation Medal (3rd Award)
  • Army Achievement Medal (4th Award)
  • Meritorious Unit Commendation
  • Army Good Conduct Medal (4th Award)
  • National Defense Service Medal
  • Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
  • Humanitarian Service Medal
  • Iraq Campaign Medal with Campaign Star (2nd Award)
  • Non Commissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon (2nd Award)
  • Army Service Ribbon
  • Overseas Service Ribbon
  • Army Recruiter Badge – Silver
  • Certificate of Achievement (3rd Award)

Expertise in Emergency and Survival Training

Patrick is well-equipped with emergency response and survival skills, having completed extensive training in:

  • ICS 100, 200, 300, 700, and 800
  • Project Lifesaver and Project Lifesaver Instructor Training
  • Lost Person Behavior and Lost Person Behavior Instructor Training
  • Corvus Survival: Winter Survival Training
  • Greenside Training: Sensory Defeat and Weaponize the Senses
  • Wilderness First Aid
  • Coyne Survival School: Wilderness Survival Certification
  • Tiga Tactics: Knife Defense
  • Civil Award: Do Good in the Copper Country
  • CPR/AED Certification

Patrick Diedrich’s extensive training and numerous accolades highlight his commitment to excellence and preparedness in both military and civilian capacities. His diverse skill set and unwavering dedication make him an invaluable asset in any endeavor he undertakes.

Publications

Patrick Diedrich has authored a diverse array of publications that reflect his extensive knowledge and expertise in survival, preparedness, and tactical skills. His works range from practical guides and how-to articles to in-depth interviews and reviews. Notable publications include “Secrets of Traditional Knowledge,” “How To Fell a Tree: Summon Your Inner Lumberjack,” and “Cold Weather Survival Pack.” Patrick has also contributed to recognized platforms, featuring pieces like “What If: You’re Forced To Endure A Blizzard Without Utilities” in Offgrid Presents: What If? and “DIY Knuckle Duster From Spent Brass” in Gun Digest’s DIY Guns. His writing not only provides valuable insights but also showcases his ability to address a wide audience, from seasoned survivalists to those new to the field.

Final Thoughts

After digging through old Army records, college transcripts and a slew of writing submissions, it might be safe to say that I can speak with confidence about the topic of self-reliance. What the narrative of my background and the list of accomplishments leaves out, are all the impactful interactions i’ve experienced along the way. The personal stories of hard work, luck, suffering, joy, misfortune, and everything in between—those influences that time uses to sculpt you into who you have become—are too numerous to talk about succinctly. But I am grateful for the lessons life has taught, and continues to teach me.

If what I have learned along the way can help prevent one person from meeting their untimely demise the next time they are out on a day hike or camping trip, then the Vargöld experiment will have been well worth the effort.

Want to know where to start? I recommend making Physical Fitness your first priority!

Before You Go!

Enhance your survival and self-reliance skills before attending an in-person course:

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