Portrait of David A. Cole

David A. Cole

Orlando, FL · · LinkedIn · GitHub

Current Status

For Recruiters


DAVID A. COLE

Orlando, FL | | LinkedIn | GitHub


Summary

Aspiring integration & test / systems engineer with hands-on embedded, PCB, CAD, and firmware experience across a commercial engineering internship, university satellite research, and small-business operations. Selected for commission into the United States Space Force (April 2026, pending OTS class date).

Professional Experience

Flux Engineering Oviedo, FL
Engineering Intern, Part-time Apr 2025 – Present
  • Performed PCB flashing and firmware programming on a smart valve product line using custom test fixtures and flashing scripts.
  • Completed electronics assembly of finished units: integrated programmed PCBs with solenoids, valves, and battery packs.
  • Verified component functionality of assembled boards using a custom hardware test fixture prior to product staging.
  • Designed mechanical parts in SOLIDWORKS that were converted to Fusion CAM workflows by senior staff; received instruction on toolpath selection, fixturing, and CNC safety.
  • Supported embedded development on an ESP-IDF / Zigbee device evaluation.
University of Southern Maine Gorham, ME
Research Assistant, CubeSat Project Oct 2024 – Dec 2024
  • Modified PyCubed flight software and tested serial communication on the satellite motherboard.
  • Diagnosed and resolved a USB interface defect on a satellite board during live board testing.
  • Recovered archived PCB design files to enable the team to reprint a circuit board.
LongHorn Steakhouse Oviedo, FL
Server, Part-time May 2026 – Present
  • Manage 4-5 tables simultaneously during high-volume dinner service; consistently meet timing and quality standards under pressure.
GNC Orlando, FL
Sales Advisor, Part-time Dec 2024 – Feb 2026
  • Guided customer product selection across nutrition and supplement lines; maintained inventory accuracy and provided management coverage during absences.
ClixCultureMedia LLC Florida
Owner / Self-Employed Feb 2023 – Aug 2024
  • Founded and operated a small media and IT-services business as sole owner.
  • Deployed and configured mini-PC workstations across multiple client locations; architected employee vs. owner Google account structures; configured Chrome Remote Desktop for cross-location access.
  • Produced aerial video, product photography, and trade show display material for clients across Florida.
Best Buy Orlando, FL & South Portland, ME
Sales Advisor, Seasonal May 2022 – Nov 2024
  • Primary resource for cameras and computers across two locations; recognized as MVP December 2022 / January 2023 at Store 157.
  • Cross-trained across departments; mentored new team members in computing and camera sales.
New England Ocean Cluster Portland, ME
Honors Intern (three semesters) Jan 2023 – May 2024
  • Produced aerial video and real estate content through USM's Honors Program; contributed to blue-economy commercial value research and event promotion.

Technical Skills

  • Programming: Python, Java, JavaScript, HTML, CSS, Git
  • CAD / Design: SOLIDWORKS (CSWA), Autodesk Inventor
  • Electronics: PCB flashing/programming, Hardware test fixtures, Oscilloscope, Multimeter, Logic analyzer, Function generator, Soldering
  • Embedded & Firmware: ESP-IDF / Zigbee, PyCubed flight software
  • Fabrication: 3D printing, CNC exposure via Fusion CAM workflows
  • Drone Operations: FAA Part 107 sUAS, DJI aerial platforms
  • Systems: Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, Linux fundamentals

Certificates & Licenses

  • SOLIDWORKS Mechanical Design Associate (CSWA)
  • Autodesk Inventor (Certified User)
  • FAA Part 107 License (Commercial Remote Pilot) + Recurrent (ALC-677)
  • Microsoft Office Specialist — Word, Excel, PowerPoint

Education

Western Governors University Orlando, FL
Bachelor of Science, Computer Science Expected Sep 2026

University of Southern Maine Gorham, ME
Coursework toward Electrical Engineering (Computer Engineering Track) Aug 2022 – Dec 2024
Transferred to WGU in 2025 (no USM degree awarded); minors in Honors and Aerospace Studies (AFROTC)

Leadership & Activities

Air Force ROTC (UNH Cross-Town) — Cadet Third Class Jan 2024 – Dec 2024
Led PT reporting for AFROTC cadets while cross-training with Army ROTC; tracked attendance and coordinated branch scheduling.

Varsity Baseball, University of Southern Maine — LHP & Outfield Aug 2022 – Jan 2024
Balanced Division III academic-athletic load; served on Student-Athlete Advisory Committee for campus event planning.

Resident Assistant, University of Southern Maine Aug 2024 – Dec 2024
Led residential community; enforced policies, mediated conflicts, planned floor events, prepared written transition plan for successor team.

Florida Futures League (Div II) — LHP / OF / 1B May 2023 – Aug 2023
Improved performance via self-coaching, feedback loops, and structured practice.