* Sifu Pickens has been practicing martial arts since 1961. * Began teaching at Bergstrom AFB in 1973 where he became Head Instructor before discharge in 1975. * After discharge he led a program at Austin YWCA, focusing on Tai Chi with a special program for women’s self-defense. *In 1977 he began teaching for Austin Community College where his Tai Chi program resulted in being the first Tai Chi program given college accreditation in Texas. * He has taught workshops at various law enforcement agencies in Central & South Texas creating a training tape for the DPS. * He is the former AAU Chinese Martial Arts National Vice Chairman and National Shuai Chiao Advisor for the AAU. As the Shuai Chiao Chief Judge and Coordinator for the U.S.A. Wushu Kungfu Federation. He acts as an International Judge for Wrestling and Platform Boxing. * Sifu Pickens is certified as a Ranking Test Board Official for promoting students to instructors. * He is currently the General Manager of the World Shuai Chiao Society. The World Karate Hall of Fame named Sifu Pickens Kung Fu Instructor of the year for 1999 and again in 2000. * In 1989 Sifu Pickens settled in Round Rock where he is very community involved as a Blue Ribbon Ambassador with the Chamber of Commerce, and has been a two time President of the Round Rock Noontime International Lion’s Club.