So far this year, instructors at El Paso Community College have certified twice the number of people they certified last year at this time to carry a concealed weapon.
"I do have one at the house, and it's for the protection of the family," said Edith Aguirre, math teacher and now - gun owner. She's one of dozens who came here to learn how to fire a gun.
"It makes you feel safe, you do feel like you are prepared," she said.
Aguirre lives in Horizon City and last year, one of her neighbors was dragged out of his home and murdered. His body was found in Juarez.
"I think border violence may be a concern because some of the students during class have said that they're worried about that," said gun course instructor Ernest Wade.
Across El Paso County, the number of concealed carry licenses issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety has been on the rise. In 2008, over 1,093 licenses were issued. The next year, that number rose to 1,802.
"They want to be able to protect their families and their homes and want that extra security of having a weapon if need be," said Wade.
Not only are people wanting to take a more active role in protecting their families, but also the community. Law Enforcement Training Academy director Barry Bogle says they've seen a 100% increase in the number of people wanting to become cops.
"Police officers, sheriff's deputies start out in $30,000 incomes or more just starting out," said Bogle. He credits the increase to the prospect of good pay, promotion opportunities, and retirement in a tough economy.
Jeff McDowell owned a toy store on the east side before closing down due to the economy. He's now on his way to what he considers a more stable career.
"I was a little nervous to be honest with you, I'm 39, I thought maybe I was too old for this, and then the staff here told me that there's people older than me who have come here and succeeded," McDowell said.
Aguirre, meanwhile, may not be ready to throw on a badge and belt, but she hopes she can take the lessons she's learned in the course.
“That I would be able to react and think before I fire the gun,” Aguirre said.
The cost for both the instruction and the certification is about $270. Aguirre said, with her newfound peace of mind, it was money well-spent.
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