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Austin Cole

Deputy Director / Chief Information Security Officer

Professional Summary

Experienced IT leader with over 20 years of experience in cybersecurity, infrastructure management, and emergency preparedness. Currently serving as Deputy IT Director and Chief Information Security Officer for Latah County, Idaho. Passionate about leveraging technology to strengthen communities and enhance emergency response capabilities. Active in amateur radio, emergency management, and nonprofit leadership.

Core Competencies

Cybersecurity & Risk Management

  • • Information Security Program Development
  • • Risk Assessment & Mitigation
  • • Compliance & Governance
  • • Incident Response Planning

IT Leadership & Strategy

  • • Strategic Technology Planning
  • • Team Leadership & Development
  • • Budget Management
  • • Vendor Relations

Emergency Management

  • • Emergency Communications
  • • Disaster Response Coordination
  • • Community Preparedness
  • • Amateur Radio Operations

Professional Experience

Deputy Director / Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)

Latah County, Idaho

October 2024 - Present
  • • Lead cybersecurity initiatives and information security program for county government
  • • Oversee IT infrastructure, systems administration, and technology strategic planning
  • • Provide critical on-call support for life safety operations including Sheriff's Office and 911 dispatch
  • • Manage and support radio systems and CAD (Computer Aided Dispatch) systems for public safety
  • • Coordinate emergency communications and disaster recovery planning
  • • Supervise IT staff and provide technical leadership across departments
  • • Manage IT budget, vendor relationships, and compliance requirements

Sr. System Administrator

Latah County, Idaho

June 2022 - September 2024
  • • Managed mixed Linux/Windows server environments with emphasis on high availability and security
  • • Implemented firewalls, VPNs, and network troubleshooting for critical infrastructure and public safety systems
  • • Provided 24/7 on-call support for critical life safety operations including Sheriff's Office and 911 dispatch
  • • Supported radio systems and CAD systems essential for emergency response operations
  • • Oversaw system backups, disaster recovery operations, and data integrity for county services
  • • Collaborated with county departments to align IT solutions with operational needs

IT Systems Administrator

Latah County, Idaho

October 2016 - October 2022
  • • Configured and maintained servers, ensuring network stability and operational efficiency
  • • Provided on-call IT support for critical public safety systems and emergency services
  • • Administered key services including web, SFTP, DNS, and VPN servers
  • • Supported radio communications and CAD systems for law enforcement and emergency dispatch
  • • Managed phone systems, streamlining communication across county departments

System Technician

Latah County, Idaho

October 2014 - September 2016
  • • Provided technical support and troubleshooting for county systems
  • • Assisted with network administration and maintenance
  • • Supported hardware and software installations
  • • Maintained IT documentation and inventory

MSP Owner / Web Developer / Cybersecurity Specialist

Independent Consulting

January 2012 - Present
  • • Operate managed service provider business serving small to medium businesses
  • • Manage Windows and Linux enterprise environments with specialized expertise in Linux systems
  • • Provide device troubleshooting, hardware repairs, and system upgrades
  • • Design and implement network infrastructure, consulting on optimal solutions
  • • Administer servers, domains, and hosting services for client environments
  • • Develop custom web applications and provide cybersecurity consulting services
  • • Implement security assessments, vulnerability testing, and compliance solutions
  • • Deliver comprehensive IT services including 24/7 support and managed infrastructure

IT Specialist

Various Organizations

January 2004 - December 2012
  • • Network administration and technical support roles
  • • Hardware and software troubleshooting
  • • Database management and reporting
  • • Customer service and user training

Leadership & Volunteer Service

Emergency Management Leadership

Unit Commander & County Emergency Coordinator

Latah County Auxiliary Communications & ARES

EMT/Firefighter

Genesee Fire Department

Volunteer

IT Disaster Resource Center (ITDRC)

Nonprofit Leadership

President & Founder

CommUnity NexUs, Inc.

Community technology and emergency preparedness nonprofit

President & Founder

DSARC (Digital Systems Amateur Radio Club)

Amateur radio club focused on digital communications

Education & Certifications

Professional Certifications

NREMT, Idaho & Montana EMT Licenses
AHA Faculty Trainer (BLS & Heartsaver)
Red Cross CPR/First Aid/AED, Trauma & EMR Instructor
CompTIA Security+
FEMA Emergency Management Certifications
Amateur Radio Extra Class License (KF7SIW)

Technical Skills

Systems & Infrastructure

Windows ServerVMwareActive DirectoryPowerShellLinux AdministrationNetwork Management

Security & Compliance

Risk AssessmentNIST FrameworkIncident ResponseVulnerability TestingCompliance Solutions

Specializations

Public Safety SystemsEmergency CommunicationsRadio SystemsCAD Systems911 Infrastructure

Let's Connect

Interested in discussing cybersecurity, emergency management, or technology leadership opportunities? I'd love to hear from you.