Brian Cole

Dr. Brian Cole is an Associate Professor and Associate Dean of Faculty for Curriculum and Planning at the Eisenhower School, National Defense University. He also holds an adjunct position at Georgetown University’s Center for Security Studies, teaching Game Theory in International Politics. Previously, he served as a professor and Director of the Joint Warfare Department at the Marine Corps War College. A retired U.S. Marine Corps Colonel with 30 years of service, he held roles including AV-8B Harrier pilot, aviation weapons instructor, and Director of Marine Corps Aviation Support.

His education includes a Ph.D. in International Studies from Old Dominion University, a Physics degree with Aerospace Engineering emphasis from the University of Colorado, and Master’s degrees from the U.S. Naval War College, Norwich University, and Air University.

Dr. Cole’s research focuses on national security strategy, hypersonic weapons defense, and Arctic security. He has published on strategic studies and participated in Arctic security symposiums, including a presentation in Norway on hypersonic weapon implications in NATO’s High North. He chairs the Joint Chiefs of Staff initiative at Marine Corps University and contributes to talent management and Arctic strategy initiatives.