Dustin Cole

About Dustin Cole

As the Director of Public Affairs for the Georgia National Guard, I bring experience in…

Experience

1. Director of Public Affairs

   Georgia National Guard

   Aug 2025 — Present

   As the senior public affairs officer for the Georgia National Guard, I lead strategic communication efforts that shape and strengthen the organization’s reputation at the state and national levels. I provide trusted counsel to senior leaders, manage internal and external communication strategies, and oversee a team responsible for media relations, crisis communication, digital platforms, and community engagement.In this role, I: • Direct the development and execution of comprehensive communication plans that advance organizational priorities, highlight operational readiness, and support the Guard’s mission at home and abroad. • Serve as principal advisor to senior leadership on public affairs strategy, media engagement, and stakeholder relations. • Lead crisis and incident response communication, ensuring accuracy, transparency, and timeliness to maintain public trust. • Oversee media production, digital content, and social media campaigns that expand reach, engagement, and storytelling impact. • Build partnerships with military, governmental, and civilian stakeholders to strengthen public support and community relations. • Mentor and develop public affairs professionals, fostering a culture of excellence, adaptability, and innovation.Through these responsibilities, I help ensure the Georgia National Guard communicates with clarity, credibility, and purpose—supporting both our service members and the citizens of Georgia.

Education

• Defense Information School

  Professional Certificate, Public Affairs

  2017

• Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

  Bachelor of Science (BS), Technical Management

  2012

Skills

• Program Management
• Process Management
• Process Improvement
• Project Management
• Leadership
• Security Clearance
• Team Building
• Training
• Business Development
• Blogging
• Resource Allocation
• Cost Analysis
• Social Networking
• Risk Management
• Cross-Functional Team Leadership
• Military
• Defense
• Military Experience
• Dod
• National Security
• Avionics
• Military Operations
• Command
• Change Management
• Mentoring
• Coaching
• Risk Assessment
• Quality Assurance
• Team Management
• Safety
• Industrial Safety
• Process Safety
• Air Force
• Process Optimization
• Quality Control
• Operations Management
• Analysis
• Policy
• Team Leadership
• Risk Analytics