Step Training Inc. Leadership Team
Steven Poplawski
CEO of Step Training Inc.
“The true purpose of a professional educator is not simply to relay information, but to inspire students to self-develop and commit to learning.”
— Steven Poplawski, 2025
Steven Poplawski, B.A. is a keynote speaker, professional presenter, and international educator, dedicated to the advancement of evidence-based training methodologies. Having delivered presentations and training sessions across multiple countries, he focuses on skill-based learning, professional resilience, and real-world application, he has developed programs that equip front-line professionals with practical strategies to manage emotional escalation and conflict resolution effectively. His work integrates insights from psychology, behavioral science, and law enforcement best practices to ensure that training remains relevant, applicable, and impactful.
Donald Back
Director of Operations & Training – Step Training Inc.
Retired Police Officer | Master Instructor | Applied Researcher & Policy Writer
With 31 years of experience in law enforcement, Donald Back has dedicated his career to the advancement of skill-based training and professional education. His passion for high-quality instruction began when he became a certified Police Use of Force Instructor, and since then, he has trained a diverse range of audiences, including municipal staff, undergraduate students, and customer service professionals.
Judith Andersen, PhD
Director of Research and Development – Step Training Inc.
Professor Andersen is a health psychologist who specializes in bio-psycho-social research on stress and stress-related mental and physical health issues. With more than 15 years of experience working with individuals in high-stress occupations, she led the development of a reality-based training program (iPREP) shown to reduce police lethal force errors through the modulation of stress physiology.
Dr. Joseph Arpaia, MD.
Senior Content Developer – Step Training Inc.
During my 30 years as a physician I have listened to people describe their experience of stress and how stress affects their performance, health, and relationships. I have consistently worked to develop effective, precise, and practical methods to help people reduce the negative effects of stress.