Laura Martinez

Laura A. Martinez is the Head Women Empowered Instructor at Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Nipomo. Her Jiu-Jitsu journey began in 2017, and since then, she has become a Gracie University Certified Instructor and an integral part of the academy’s instructional team.

Laura is known for her dedication, compassion, and commitment to helping women develop confidence, awareness, and practical self-defense skills through the Gracie Women Empowered® Program. In addition to leading Women Empowered classes, she teaches Gracie Combatives® and assists with the Gracie Bullyproof® youth programs.

Outside of the academy, Laura serves as an Associate Practitioner with Santa Barbara Behavioral Wellness, where she continues her professional work supporting individuals and families in the community.

Laura brings her experience working with people and families, along with her passion for Jiu-Jitsu, into every class she teaches and is committed to creating a welcoming and empowering environment for students of all experience levels.

Jeffery Martinez

Professor (BJJ) and Sensei (Karate/Judo) Jeffery Martinez is a lifelong martial artist and dedicated mentor with nearly 30 years of experience. He is the founder and head instructor of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Nipomo, established in 2016 and formerly known as Central Coast Jiu-Jitsu Academy before its evolution into one of the Central Coast’s premier Gracie Certified Training Centers.

Jeff’s first exposure to Gracie Jiu-Jitsu began in 1996, an experience that set the course for his lifelong journey in the art. Over the years, he cross-trained and refined his skills, ultimately earning his Black Belt in 2023 under the guidance of Rener and Ryron Gracie. His dedication reflects a relentless pursuit of mastery and a passion for sharing the art’s life-changing benefits with others.

A U.S. Army Combat Veteran and former member of the All American 82nd Airborne Division, Jeff served with the 2-505th Parachute Infantry Regiment and the 1-118th Field Artillery Battalion as a 13F Forward Observer. He deployed to Afghanistan, where he served with distinction, and later completed Army Combatives Level 1 and 2 during his service. These experiences shaped the discipline, resilience, and leadership he brings to his students. He is also Gracie Survival Tactics Level 1 Certified, Safe Wrap Certified, and a Women Empowered Certified Instructor (Gracie Self-Defense Program for Women).

In addition to his Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt, Jeff holds a 6th-degree Black Belt in Keichu-Do Karate/Ju-Jutsu, earned through being under the tutelage of the late Soke Karl W. Marx (10th Dan and founder of Keichu-Do) and Grandmaster Eldridge Conley (9th Dan). His formal Judo training began with Sensei Mario Rubio (1984 Olympic alternate and founder of Five Cities Judo Club) in 1997 and his son, Sensei Greg Rubio, before continuing training with other esteemed judoka, training partners, and coaches. Jeff was promoted to Shodan by Sensei Paulo Augusto in 2020 and is a registered Shodan (1st Degree Black Belt) with USA Judo the official governing body for the sport in the United States and recognized by the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee. He has since continued his practice of Judo with Sensei Cort Newby of Santa Maria Judo, where he is also a member, and is additionally a Certified Regional Coach with USA Judo.

Outside his direct affiliation with Gracie University as a certified instructor, Jeff is a member in good standing with both USA Judo and the Jiu-Jitsu Global Federation (JJGF), reflecting his engagement with the broader martial arts community and commitment to lifelong learning.

A tireless advocate for empowerment through martial arts, Jeff leads with integrity, compassion, and purpose. His school has become a trusted home for students of all ages and skill levels, recognized for its safe, welcoming, and structured environment.

Jeff also holds a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Business Management from La Verne University, further enriching his ability to lead and inspire.

Whether on the mat or in the community, Professor / Sensei Jeffery Martinez embodies the spirit of martial arts: discipline, respect, and the belief that with the right mindset and guidance, anyone can overcome challenges and unlock their full potential.