About Me
Deputy IT Director & CISO | Emergency Management Leader | Ham Radio Operator | ITDRC Volunteer
Hi! I'm a seasoned IT professional with over 20 years of experience in technology and cybersecurity. I currently serve as Deputy IT Director and Chief Information Security Officer, bringing extensive expertise in both cyber and physical security to my role.
I'm passionate about building community connections through technology and emergency preparedness. As President and Founder of CommUnity NexUs, Inc. nonprofit and the Do Something Amateur Radio Club (DSARC), I work to strengthen our local community resilience. I also serve as Unit Commander for Latah County Auxiliary Communications, County Emergency Coordinator for ARES, and volunteer with the IT Disaster Resource Center (ITDRC), demonstrating my commitment to public safety and emergency management.
I balance my professional responsibilities with service as an EMT/Firefighter with Genesee Fire Department. My technical interests span cybersecurity, DIY IoT projects, electronics, and ham radio operations. When I'm not working, I enjoy restoring my 1973 Ford Mustang convertible and taking motorcycle rides through the beautiful Idaho countryside.
Originally from Houston, Texas, I now call the small town of Genesee, Idaho home, where I live with my wife Heather and 5-year-old son Austin Junior (AJ). Despite my busy professional life, family remains my greatest passion, and I treasure our Sunday adventures and church time together. Balancing work and family life can be challenging with all my responsibilities, but I try my best to make time for what matters most.
I'm a proud Texan at heart with deep roots in technology, emergency management, and community service, always looking to connect with fellow professionals and serve my community.
Professional Background
My Current Roles
- • Deputy IT Director & CISO - Latah County
- • President & Founder - CommUnity NexUs, Inc.
- • President & Founder - Do Something Amateur Radio Club
- • Unit Commander - Latah County Aux Communications
- • County Emergency Coordinator - ARES
- • Volunteer - IT Disaster Resource Center (ITDRC)
- • EMT/Firefighter - Genesee Fire Department
My Experience
- • 20+ years in Information Technology
- • Professional IT work since 2009
- • Latah County employee since 2014
- • MSP and web development background
- • Specialized in cybersecurity and emergency management
My Interests & Hobbies
My Personal Life
I live in the small town of Genesee, Idaho with my wife Heather and 5-year-old son Austin Junior (AJ). Family is my greatest passion, and despite my busy professional life, I prioritize spending quality time with them, especially on Sundays with church and family adventures. We love going on motorcycle and car rides together, exploring the beautiful Idaho countryside and making memories as a family.
Originally from Houston, Texas, I appreciate my small-town Idaho lifestyle but maintain my Texas pride and fondly remember our family ranch in the hill country of Bandera, along with the unique food, culture, and spirit that makes Texas special.
In my garage, you'll find my pride and joy - a 1973 Ford Mustang convertible that I've been restoring. When weather permits, I enjoy taking my motorcycle out for solo rides, but even better are the family rides with Heather and AJ - whether it's cruising in the Mustang or adventures on the bike. Balancing all my work commitments with family time isn't always easy, but these moments together make it all worthwhile.
Family
Heather
Wife
Austin Junior (AJ)
Son
The Cole family enjoys Sunday adventures, church, motorcycle and car rides, and making memories together in beautiful Genesee, Idaho.
Let's Connect
Always interested in connecting with fellow technology professionals, emergency management colleagues, and ham radio operators.