Sensei Ken began his study of Karate. Later moving to Orland Park where he studied Isshin Ryu Karate under Jesse Gallegoes, a 9th degree black belt. It was in this style that Sensei Ken earned a 6th degree black belt.

He continued to grow as a martial artists, studying Modern Arnis and pressure points with George Mazek, a 4th degree black belt in Modern Arnis.

Grandmaster Remy A. Presas, know as "Professor Remy Presas", founder and creator of Modern Arnis, promoted Ken Smith to the level of Master of Tapi-Tapi, the highest level of achievement in Modern Arnis.

In 2006, Ken smith was promoted to 7th degree by Grandmaster George Dillman and is now an active member of Dillman Karate International (DKI).