Nicholas Thoele

Results-oriented NCOIC with over 20 years of experience in technical operations, personnel management, curriculum development, and interagency coordination. Demonstrated ability to multitask, prioritize, and work effectively in fast-paced environments while maintaining strict confidentiality. Expert in hazardous materials response, risk mitigation, evidence handling, and delivering specialized training to diverse audiences.

Known for strong problem-solving abilities, a proactive approach to challenges, exceptional communication skills, and excellent organizational abilities with a strong attention to detail and accuracy. Proven capacity to lead teams, design and instruct professional development courses, and collaborate effectively with federal agencies including the U.S.

Secret

Service. Currently holds a Top-Secret Security Clearance.

NCOIC, Senior Instructor - EOD Advanced Leaders Course at U.S. Army (2022-06 – 2025-11)

• Managed and mentored a team of 17 personnel, providing leadership development, performance coaching, and career guidance while ensuring operational readiness and professional growth.
• Designed and implemented mentorship strategies, decision-making frameworks, and organizational goal-setting processes that strengthened team performance and ethical leadership culture.
• Led planning and execution of training programs, negotiations, and mediation efforts to resolve conflicts and align team objectives with organizational priorities.

NCOIC, Senior Instructor, & Curriculum Developer - Tactical & Technical Exploitation Course at U.S. Army (2019-07 – 2022-06)

• Served as primary instructor and course developer for a specialized two-week technical training program focused on tactical and technical exploitation, including classroom instruction and practical field exercises.
• Authored and refined course content covering homemade explosives, first-seen ordnance, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), evidence collection, electronics, and related technical subjects.
• Delivered instruction in both classroom and field environments, incorporating computer-based training, scenario-based exercises, and hands-on practical applications to enhance student proficiency.
• Contributed to the establishment and continuous improvement of a Department of the Army school by developing curriculum, instructional materials, and evaluation methods.

Platoon Sergeant & Operations Supervisor at U.S. Army (2017-12 – 2019-07)

• Directed operations, training, and readiness for two company-sized organizations, overseeing all aspects of personnel development, contingency planning, mobilization, and special events.
• Provided technical expertise and operational support to joint interagency partners and law enforcement agencies on force protection, unexploded ordnance, and counter-IED operations.
• Coordinated protective support for the U.S. Secret Service and other federal agencies, enabling security operations for the President, Vice President, and visiting world dignitaries.

Forensics Laboratory Supervisor (NCOIC) at Defense Forensic Science Center / U.S. Army (2017-03 – 2017-12)

• Supervised laboratory operations providing full-service forensic support to Army and Department of Defense organizations, including traditional, expeditionary, and reach-back capabilities.
• Certified all evidence free of explosive hazards; photographed and cataloged every item into the laboratory database with strict chain-of-custody protocols.
• Traveled to Iraq and Bahrain to retrieve high-priority evidence and provided detailed briefings and facility tours to senior military and government officials.

Platoon Sergeant & Operations Supervisor at U.S. Army (2014-02 – 2017-03)

• Managed operations and training for two company-sized units, ensuring readiness across training, contingencies, mobilization, and special events.
• Delivered technical guidance on force protection, unexploded ordnance, and counter-IED operations to joint interagency and law enforcement partners.
• Supported U.S. Secret Service protective missions for the President, Vice President, and international dignitaries.

Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team Leader at U.S. Army (2009-07 – 2014-02)

• Led a specialized team responsible for the identification, neutralization, and safe disposal of improvised explosive devices, unexploded ordnance, and weapons of mass destruction.
• Operated advanced x-ray systems, robotics platforms, and remotely controlled tools to safely access and render safe explosive devices while wearing specialized protective equipment.
• Conducted reconnaissance, assessed ordnance conditions, advised commanders on safe withdrawal distances, and exploited recovered items for technical intelligence value.
• Responded to emergency incidents involving potential toxic or radioactive materials using specialized detection and monitoring equipment.

Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician at U.S. Army (2005-10 – 2009-07)

• Performed safe handling, transportation, and disposal of unserviceable, excess, or dangerous ordnance and demolition explosives.
• Supported protective details for the U.S. Secret Service and other federal agencies, as well as research, development, and testing of weapons and systems.
• Instructed military and civilian personnel on ordnance recognition, protective measures for improvised explosive devices, and hazardous materials response procedures.

Associate of Arts (AA) in General Studies – American Public University System (APUS) (2021-12)