elevate Your Legacy

“As Iron Sharpens Iron So Does One Man Sharpen Another”
A group of confined space rescuers, S.W.A.T., JROTC cadets and civilians pose in front of a black police vehicle and on top of it.
A young man in military camouflage uniform kneeling next to a black and tan German shepherd laying on the ground, outside near a large trash bin and a truck.
Four JROTC Cadets on a confined space rescue trainer with an American flag flying in the background.
A rescue team from the Confined Space Rescue Team preparing for a rescue operation at an industrial site. The team is near a specialized rescue truck with graphic artwork depicting industrial pipes and equipment, and a team member with a dog is in th
Man explaining something to a group outside near a large truck or trailer.
A black Indianapolis Metropolitan Police armored vehicle with two people inside, on top. The vehicle has police badges and markings. In the background, there is a green Sunbelt Rentals truck and a partly cloudy blue sky.
Black armored police vehicle with a radar dome on top parked in a lot, with police officers and emergency personnel gathered near a trailer and equipment in the background.
A young person in a black t-shirt standing inside a black police vehicle with a round hatch open, against a clear blue sky with green trees in the background.
Emergency medical supplies and equipment on a gurney, with emergency responders and police officers standing nearby, outdoors on a sunny day.
An instructor helping a group of young adults with harnesses outdoors on a sunny day
A group of people attending an outdoor safety or community event, with a table of snacks and informational materials set up next to an SUV and a banner displaying safety and compliance services.
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WHo Knew?

That what began as a casual church conversation would become a training tradition focused on leadership, teamwork, and real-world industrial safety.

  • In April 2022, a simple conversation at church between Ret. Lt. Col. Clay Edens (then overseeing Beech Grove High School JROTC) and Matt Gleaves sparked an idea with a lasting impact! Col. Edens was expressing his desire to give his cadets more practical activities. Matt suggested using Maddox Industrial Group’s Confined Space Rescue (CSR) training tower and facility in Indianapolis. This could be a place for cadets to experience rappelling and safety drills while providing a unique introduction into the world of industrial rescue.

  • On June 18, 2022, after two years of COVID-related pauses in extended JROTC activities, MIG opened its CSR training tower for this first hands-on event. The pilot day was a resounding success: safe, challenging, and fun! More importantly, it built confidence in cadets as they tested their limits, embraced teamwork, and discovered real-world skills that could shape their future.

  • What started as a one-time event quickly grew into an annual tradition. Word spread, participation expanded, and more Indianapolis-area JROTC programs, partner companies, and even S.W.A.T. joined in. Year after year, participation has expanded to include more Indianapolis-area JROTC programs, partner companies, and even S.W.A.T. teams. Today, this tradition continues with a clear purpose: instilling leadership, teamwork, and industrial safety while opening doors to career pathways beyond high school.

  • What started in Indianapolis can happen anywhere. With the right partners, any community can create a hands-on experience that builds leadership, confidence, and safety awareness in the next generation.

    Now it’s your turn! Whether you’re a school, a company, a civic leader, or just an individual… open the doors, spark the conversation, and empower young people where you live. Partner with your local JROTCs and together, we can inspire cadets and students worldwide with training that lasts far beyond the classroom.

Group of police officers and community members posing in front of a black armored police vehicle with a water rescue tower, some standing and others sitting or kneeling on top, with a blue sky and trees in the background.

Contact us to learn more about starting a joint JROTC event in your area

Or Contact Retire Lt. Col. Clayton Edens directly at cedens@confinedspacecoffee.com

The Three E’s of the JROTC

U.S. Army JROTC emblem featuring a gold torch and laurel leaves on a silver background with a red border.

  • For those who choose, JROTC provides a pathway to enlistment with advanced rank, specialized training, and a strong foundation of discipline already in place. This isn’t about obligation… it’s about opportunity, opening doors for those who want to serve.

  • Every cadet in JROTC gains exposure to leadership training, citizenship education, and practical skills that make them more confident and capable. Enrolling in college or extended education means investing in yourself and your future.

  • Another option that JROTC cadets are encouraged to do is ENTER the workforce. Let’s be honest… College is not for everyone! 

    JROTC instills a sense of purpose, adaptability, and resilience that ensures they enter the next stage of life with confidence and a competitive edge. Individuals who want to WORK and LEARN will thrive in the workforce!