The Unlikely Journey of Tony Cole: From Aspiring Firefighter to Global Engineering Leader
In an inspiring narrative of ambition and achievement, Tony Cole, a 1993 graduate from Eastern Kentucky University (EKU), traces a remarkable journey that has taken him from the humble aspirations of a young boy dreaming of becoming a firefighter, to serving as a fire protection engineer for one of the world’s largest oil companies, and now, managing his own fire protection firm in Lexington, Kentucky. This story is not only about personal success but also symbolizes the critical role that education and networking play in shaping careers.
As a high school graduate in the late 1980s, Cole embarked on what he thought would be a straightforward path in firefighting but soon found himself intrigued by the intricacies of fire engineering. Unfortunately, opportunities for formal education in this field were scarce during that era. Nevertheless, fate intervened when Cole’s hometown was in proximity to EKU, which offered one of the few fire protection and safety engineering programs in the country. This fortuitous circumstance became a launching pad for his career.
“Originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, the short drive to Richmond made joining EKU a viable option,” Cole reflects. “Attending EKU opened my eyes to the broad spectrum of possibilities within fire protection engineering, introducing me to various concepts and professionals that I had never encountered before. It was a transformative experience that widened my horizons and allowed me to discover the extent of the professional landscape available to me.”
During his academic tenure, Cole actively engaged with the Association of Fire Science Technicians, an experience that significantly influenced his professional trajectory. He attributes much of his subsequent success to the networking opportunities available on campus, which positioned him to connect with like-minded individuals from diverse backgrounds, including international students from countries such as Kuwait and Saudi Arabia.
Upon graduating from EKU, Cole moved to Saudi Arabia where he took up a position with Saudi Aramco, the national oil company. His role transcended traditional engineering tasks, as he found himself interfacing with high-level executives and government officials, including the oil minister and even the King of Saudi Arabia during the company’s 75th anniversary celebrations. “I never imagined that a person from a small community like Fairfield, just outside Cincinnati, would reach such heights in my career,” he states, reflecting on the unexpected doors that opened for him through education and fortuitous connections.
Throughout his career, Cole maintained a robust connection with EKU, contributing to the International Alumni Association, serving on the technical advisory board for the fire engineering program, and even stepping into a teaching role for several years. His commitment to fostering a new generation of fire protection engineers is evident in his current role as the vice president of U.S. operations for SenezCo, a fire protection firm located in Lexington. There, he actively recruits from EKU’s burgeoning fire protection engineering program, eager to nurture talent and guide new graduates through the licensure process.
Cole’s advocacy was pivotal in the recent enactment of House Bill 306, a legislative measure that removed barriers preventing EKU’s Fire Protection and Safety Engineering Technology graduates from acquiring professional engineering (PE) licensure in Kentucky. This landmark change not only enhances the career prospects of graduates but also elevates the standing of the program within the engineering community.
Looking back, Cole expresses profound gratitude for his time at EKU, crediting it with laying the groundwork for his unexpected yet illustrious journey. “The mantra was, ‘go here, go anywhere.’ In my case, that could not be more accurate. I never envisioned that my education would propel me to Saudi Arabia, working as a senior fire protection advisor for the world’s largest oil company. The opportunities are limitless if one is willing to explore,” he reflects with a sense of accomplishment and hope.
EKU’s Fire Protection and Safety Engineering Technology program stands out as one of only three ABET-accredited programs nationally, boasting a robust enrollment of over 100 students and experiencing significant growth in recent years. The program equips students with the necessary skills to design fire detection and suppression systems, assess risks, and ensure compliance with life safety codes. Graduates have flourished in various roles across the globe, serving in positions that have substantial implications for public safety and welfare.
As the field of fire protection engineering continues to evolve, the story of Tony Cole stands as a testament to the transformative power of education, networking, and international exposure. His journey not only reflects personal achievement but also highlights the integral role that academic institutions like EKU play in cultivating future leaders in specialized fields.
—
Tags: #BusinessNews #EducationNews #Kentucky