My name is Blake Gibson. I was born in 1985 and have primarily lived in Midland, Texas my entire life.

After graduating from Robert E Lee High school in 2004, I attended West Texas A&M in Canyon, Texas with intentions of becoming a music teacher. I quickly discovered that while I loved teaching, I did not want to pursue music as a career,

After college, I worked for a short time in the oil and gas industry. I was employed as an electrician’s apprentice while living with my best friend’s family. I greatly appreciate them and their influence on who I am today.

I joined the Midland County Sheriff’s Office in 2007 after being hired by long time Midland County Sheriff Gary Painter. I began my work as a booking clerk and eventually attained the rank of Lieutenant of Detention Security in April of 2020.

Early on while working in the jail, I became involved in training of all types. I focused primarily on the use, carry, outfitting, maintenance, and repair of all types of firearms. I spent many hours and days at the range with my toolboxes and cleaning supplies attempting to keep the lines of qualifying shooters moving.

Diagnosing shooting issues in new or novice shooters is my specialty. Teaching, observing and enforcing safe weapons handling are not things you want just anybody doing.

I attended the Police Academy at Odessa College Law enforcement academy during 2009. I did this while working nights full time in the old Courthouse Jail. I graduated academy as Valedictorian and honored with the “Top Shot” award for my firearms handling and abilities. I was sworn in for the first time by Sheriff Painter as a full time Peace Officer shortly after.

In early 2013, I joined the Midland County Crisis Response Team under the Leadership of Sergeant Michael Naylor. I developed a passion for helping those affected by mental health struggles from Mike. Ask anyone that knew him, and they can try to help me explain it. He was a special man. Unfortunately, we lost Mike in October of 2014. I am proud to say that lessons learned from him and his example are still an important part of who I am today.

In both 2017 and 2019 I was awarded Medals of Valor for my work and experiences on Patrol in Midland County. I continued serving my community in various capacities and agencies until retiring from active-duty law enforcement effective February 1, 2025.

I am returning to college this fall with the support of my family and friends and am excited to begin my next chapter.

I intend to continue serving my community but in a different way. I have spent thousands of hours on gun ranges and diagnosing problems for shooters of all experience levels. I intend to bring this experience to the License to carry process through my courses.

 Thank you so much for your support and I will hopefully see you on the range!

Blake