Professional Staff
Chris Herrman | Founder, Alpha Martial Arts
I began training in Karate as a student at Syracuse University in 1991 and began teaching for my first instructor, Mr. Phil Benedict, in 1994. At Syracuse University I had the pleasure of training in many different styles including: Wing Chun Kung Fu, Pekiti Tirsia Kali, American Kickboxing, Aikido, and Tai Chi (in addition to my base system of Kenpo). After graduating in 1995 I moved to Boston, MA and while continuing my study of Kenpo I was also able to train in Jeet Kune Do Grappling, Doce Pares Eskrima and Muay Thai.
Silas Ness | Head Instructor, AMA Capitol Hill
Training in the martial arts has been a passion all my life. I am honored to be able to share this passion with my students every day.
Keith Busch | Head Instructor, AMA Ballard
Alpha Martial Arts has been a place for me learn, grow and train for the past 10+ years. I used to be a senior executive in the corporate world, then I found Kenpo Karate and switched my focus. I now focus on the development of my students, all ages, to help them achieve their Black Belt and beyond. I love it!
Michael Reilly | Head Instructor, AMA Ravenna-Bryant
Mr. Michael was one of the early students at Alpha Martial Arts earning his Junior Black Belt in 2007 and has been training consistently for over 20 years. He is currently ranked as a 4th Degree Adult Black Belt in our base style of Kenpo and a Purple Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He is the Director of the AMA Demo Team, Weapons and Tricking Programs and an active competitor in both sport and traditional divisons for weapons, forms and sparring, most recently placing 2nd at the 2024 US Open in 18+ Men’s BBAA Kenpo Forms.
Tim Shiley | Manager, AMA Ravenna-Bryant
Mr. Tim started at AMA as a parent and then joined classes himself in 2008. Both of his kids earned their Junior Black Belts and Mr. Tim is currently ranked as a 3rd Degree Adult Black Belt in our base style of Kenpo. As Manager of our headquarters location he keeps things running smoothly behind the scenes and as a Head Instructor he keeps students smiling and improving in group classes and private lessons Monday-Saturday.