I am Joseph Howard, a dedicated educator, accomplished martial artist, published author, and experienced professional with a diverse background spanning multiple disciplines. I currently reside in Southeast Asia, where I continue to pursue my passion for teaching and personal development.
My academic path has been characterized by excellence and continuous learning. I hold a Master of Advanced Education from the University of the People, graduating in June 2023 with a 3.73 GPA. This program equipped me with expertise in creating positive classroom environments, designing curriculum, understanding learning barriers, adolescent development, and teaching for diverse and inclusive classrooms.
Previously, I earned a Master of Arts in Applied Behavioral Science from Wright State University (2012-2013) with a 3.05 GPA, where I studied psychology, sociology, and criminal justice. My undergraduate education includes a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Harrison College (2009-2010), where I achieved a 3.75 GPA and made the Dean's list five times, and an Associate of Applied Science in Criminal Justice from Miami Jacobs Career College (2006-2008), graduating with a 3.81 GPA while earning perfect attendance and numerous academic honors.
I complemented these degrees with various certifications, including Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL), Cambridge C1 Certification, and certificates in journalism, technical writing, creative writing, philosophy, and human nature.
Currently, I serve as an English Language Development Teacher at an International School, where I provide targeted instruction to multilingual learners across proficiency levels. Previously, I taught at three government schools where I instructed students in English, health, and physical education.
My teaching career began in the United States as a Therapeutic Educator, where I managed therapeutic programs for disabled children and developed innovative teaching methods.
Beyond traditional education, I served as an experienced officer in various leadership roles within the United States Civil Air Patrol from 2010-2018, holding positions including Squadron Commander, Search & Rescue Officer, and multiple educational and administrative roles, ultimately attaining the rank of Captain.
Martial arts has been a central part of my life for over 30 years. I practice and have achieved mastery in numerous styles, including Taekwondo, Karate, Muay Thai, Muay Boran, Ninjitsu, Jujitsu, Judo, Tai Chi, Filipino martial arts, and Pencak Silat.
In 2008, I developed Bushikan-Ryu Karate, a unique style that combines elements from different martial arts traditions with a focus on self-defense, competition, and mental discipline. My credentials include a 7th dan black belt in Bushikan-Ryu Karate, 5th dan in Tengu Ninjutsu, 4th dan in both Shorin-Ryu Karate and Taekwondo, and 2nd dan in Takahashi Kobudo/Kenjutsu.
My competitive achievements are extensive, including titles such as Midwest/West Coast In-school Taekwondo Champion (1998), Battle of Columbus World Games Taekwondo Champion (2000), Summer Taekwondo Olympic Grand Champion (2000), and MVTA Martial Arts Grand Championship Grand Champion (2007). In 2016, I received the Grandmaster Kenshi Hiroshi Award and was inducted into the Tengu Shinobi Warrior Hall of Fame in 2023.
As an instructor, I've taught self-defense classes for adults and children, coached students in tournaments, and provided specialized training for police officers, military personnel, and security teams. I currently share my expertise through social media platforms and teach women's self-defense as an after-school activity.
I am also a published author with several books to my credit, including "The Road to Bangkok" (2023), "The Vampire Mariki" (2023), "October Monk" (2024), "Mariki: Gothic Knights" (2024), "Wasteland Wisdom: A Guide to Post-Apocalyptic Survival" (2024), "Space Quest: Uncharted Space" (2025), "Mariki: Spiritual Awakening" (2025), and "Harvested Fears" (2025).
My diverse experience in education, martial arts, writing, and leadership has shaped me into a well-rounded individual committed to continuous growth, cultural understanding, and helping others achieve their potential. Whether in the classroom, the dojo, or through my writing, I strive to inspire and empower those around me.
