Mr. Hanson began training in 1999 under Grand Master Chang Nam Ju and Master Nathan Halama, earning his 1st Dan by March 2000. He then served 10 years in the United States Marine Corps before returning to train under Master Halama, and earned his 4th Dan in January 2025. His favorite part of being a black belt is teaching, and watching students grow in confidence on the mat and in everyday life. Outside the school he enjoys whitewater canoeing, mountain biking, camping and time with his family.