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Welcome to Tacktics’ emotional intelligence & soft skills training

Based in Galena, IL, we help individuals and teams develop emotional intelligence, communication skills, and soft skills that drive personal and professional success. Traditional education rarely teaches these skills, but today’s workplaces (and life!) demand it now more than ever.

Whether you’re a leader wanting to strengthen team performance, a professional seeking better conflict resolution skills, an organization investing in leadership development and team building, or an individual seeking personal growth, Tacktics gives you the tools and training to succeed.

Why emotional intelligence matters

Emotional intelligence is more than a buzzword! It’s the foundation of strong leadership, effective communication, and resilient teams. People with a high EQ:

  • Make better decisions under pressure

  • Communicate clearly and confidently

  • Build stronger relationships

  • Adapt and resolve conflict effectively

  • Lead with empathy and influence change

These are the skills that not only set high-performers apart in every industry, but are crucial for everyday life.

Learn + Execute: our Proven Model for Real Change

Most training stops at theory. At Tacktics, we integrate:

Objective-based Emotional Intelligence Training
We set & maintain clear goals tailored to each skill. From active listening and empathy to conflict management and leadership, and everything in between.

Experiential Soft Skills Development
You’ll practice new ways of thinking in action, not just memorize concepts discussed in a classroom.

95% Retention Through Experiential Learning
Our Learn + Execute model means participants retain what they learn and can apply it immediately.

Internationally Certified & Globally Acclaimed
Tacktics is internationally certified in Equine-Assisted Learning and Emotional Intelligence coaching. The same programs we offer are offered around the world, successfully utilized by Fortune 500 companies, the FBI, and more.

OUR ARENA

Imagine practicing communication, leadership, and emotional regulation with a horse by your side. Horses are extraordinary partners in human development. They sense emotions instantly, mirror behavior without judgment, and help accelerate growth in not only self-awareness, but intrapersonal and interpersonal skills significantly.

With our certified facilitators, this method (known as Equine Assisted Learning or EAL) is proven to:

  • Improve empathy and self-awareness

  • Strengthen trust and teamwork

  • Enhance problem solving and resilience

  • Elevate leadership presence

All without prior horse experience required.

our horses

The most valued members of our team: the horses. Tacktics is located on private 200 acres and we have a herd of 21 incredible equines.

From Miniatures to Clydesdales, race horses and donkeys, Tacktics’ herd is made up of rescued and displaced horses. We typically work 1:1 with situations of rehoming, displacement, or rescues ranging in severity.

Our mission takes these horses in, retrains them, treats any wounds or injuries, and empowers them to find their place in the herd and be themselves. In the end, you get to work alongside them in the arena during your courses. Each horse has a story, their own personality, likes and dislikes!

Who Benefits from Tacktics Training

Our courses are ideal for:

  • Corporate teams investing in team building and leadership development

  • Professionals seeking better communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills

  • Individuals wanting personal growth, confidence, or career prep

  • + more!

ready to #trainwithtacktics ?

coming up:

June 5-7, 2026

As seen in:

Keeping up with THE HERD

Straight from the horses mouth:

  • "What a fantastic, life changing experience. You will learn things about yourself and your team mates that no other experience can give. A great way to reflect on your leadership style and pick up valuable life lessons."

    -Ash K, Marketing & Communications Manager

  • "It's hard to put to words how training with Tacktics has truly changed how I function at work. Training my EQ to operate best in my job and with my coworkers has been game changing!"

    - Thomas M.

  • "The retreats at tacktics are like no other i've attended. There's a level of impact that they're able to achieve that is truly remarkable. I feel re-equipped with skills to really take lead in my life again!"

    - A. B.

“Tacktics”:

Tack

/tak/

Equipment or accessories used on horses

Tactic

/taktik/

An action or strategy carefully planned to achieve a specific end