Jacen began training Brazillian Jiu-Jitsu 11 years ago under Dean Heileman in Twin Falls, Idaho. At the time Dean had just had surgery for Melanoma but would continue to teach Jiu-Jitsu as long as he could while on chemotherapy. Jacen also began training Jiu-Jitsu under black belts Lowell Anderson and Pedro Sauer. Before Dean Heileman passed away Jacen promised he would attain a black belt in Jiu-Jitsu. Jacen made good on that promise in 2007, earning his black belt under Craig Kukuk, the first American to ever earn the rank of black belt under Royler Gracie.

Jacen is also an accomplished MMA fighter, holding a professional record of 12-2. He owns notable victories over Dean Lister and Dennis Kang.

Jacen credits Dean Heileman with helping make him the man he is today, for not only teaching him Jiu-Jitsu but how to be a humble man. Jacen strives everyday to give his students what Dean Heileman gave to him.