Emily Cole
Emily Cole is a seasoned information security professional and Principal Consultant at Mandiant, part of Google Cloud, with over a decade of experience in threat analysis, intrusion detection, and incident response. She specializes in helping organizations strengthen their security posture by proactively identifying vulnerabilities, hardening defenses, and navigating complex cyber threats. Emily’s expertise extends to data analysis and emerging cybersecurity tools, ensuring that she remains at the forefront of defending against advanced persistent threats. Throughout her career, Emily has held a series of progressively senior roles, including Lead Principal Consultant at Mandiant Threat Defense, Senior Consultant for Mandiant Managed Defense, and Senior Lead Information Intrusion Analyst at Cincinnati Children's Hospital. She has led numerous high-profile projects, from enterprise-wide endpoint security rollouts to incident response planning and threat intelligence implementations. Emily’s approach combines strategic assessments, hands-on engineering, and team mentorship, empowering security teams to operate with confidence and resilience. Beyond her professional achievements, Emily is dedicated to community service, serving as Team Lead for the Raising Rogue Pet Pantry, supporting local animal welfare initiatives. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Computer Forensics and Computer Science from Defiance College, where she was a standout varsity track and field athlete and conference champion. Recognized for her leadership and technical skill, Emily continues to drive innovation in cybersecurity while fostering collaboration, mentorship, and progressive change within the industry.
• Forensic Analysis
• FTK
• Encase
• Certified Incident Response
• Advanced Digital Forensics, Incident Response and Threat Hunting
• Advanced Smarthpone Forensics
• Hacker tools, Techniques, Exploits and Incident Handling
• Security Consulting
• Information Security
• Data Analysis
• Defiance College - B.S.
• Security Champion of the Year
• QUEEN CITY BULLDOG RESCUE INC
• The Pantry
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a combination of dedication, discipline, and the incredible support of those around me. With 13 years in the cybersecurity field, I currently serve as a Lead Principal Threat Defense Consultant at Mandiant, where I balance high-stakes professional challenges with a fulfilling personal life. Outside of work, I am a passionate marathon runner and volleyball player, and I channel the same energy into running Raising Rogue, a local food pantry for dogs, as well as crafting organic candles. Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to achieve milestones that I am proud of, including being nominated for Cybersecurity Woman of the Year in New York and holding the distinction of getting a place at the table as woman—a seat I worked hard to earn. These experiences have reinforced the importance of perseverance, mentorship, and advocating for myself and others in the industry. What I value most, however, is the opportunity to support my clients during their most critical moments. My eight-year tenure with the Mandiant team has been formative, offering mentorship, camaraderie, and a true sense of family that continues to inspire me every day.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the field is simple but powerful: speak up anyway. Your delivery matters, and your voice is your greatest asset. Don’t aim to simply earn a seat at the table—aim to use that seat to make an impact.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me in both my work and personal life are perseverance, integrity, and honesty. I apply the same discipline and dedication I bring to my career to my hobbies, which include running and volleyball, helping me stay balanced, focused, and energized.
Locations
Mandiant & Google Cloud
Cincinnati, OH 45213