Marty Mackowski's began his training in the early 1960's with the late Ki Wang Kim, one of the highest ranking Korean instructors in the U.S. at that time.

When Mr. Mackowski moved to California, he studied several different martial arts. As a result of his eclectic training, he developed a multifaceted style that had its roots in traditional taekwondo. In 1968, he opened Mackowski's Taekwondo in Burlingame, California.

During the many years Mr. Mackowski taught, he produced well over 100 black belts, many of whom continue to train and teach today.

Mr. Mackowski was also one of the founders of ATAMA, the American Teachers Association of Martial Arts. The association was begun in order to recognize the dedicated instruction of U.S. based teachers. Mr. Mackowski held the rank of 7th Dan at the time of his retirement from active teaching.

Today, Mr. Mackowski frequently presides over black belt tests at Golden State Taekwondo. His presence is greatly appreciated by those testing, especially students who began their training under his instruction.