Brigadier General Norman L. “Norm” Cooling, USMC (Ret.), is the Founder and President of N. L. Cooling Strategic Consulting, LLC, established in 2019 to provide leadership development and strategic consulting services. With over 33 years of distinguished military service, General Cooling brings extensive experience in managing complex operations and leading diverse teams across global landscapes.

During his military career, General Cooling held numerous senior executive roles, overseeing operations involving up to 225,000 personnel and managing budgets exceeding $650 million. He has commanded ground task forces in Afghanistan and Iraq, and served as the Deputy Director of Operations for U.S. European Command, where he led the development of a strategic campaign to counter regional threats, including Russian aggression and terrorism. His leadership extended to critical roles in legislative affairs, where he advanced Congressional support for increased funding and resources for the Marine Corps.

A lifelong learner, General Cooling holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from High Point University, along with advanced degrees in National Security and Strategic Studies and Military Studies. He is also a recognized thought leader, conducting guest lectures and presentations on leadership and national security at regional universities.
At N. L. Cooling Strategic Consulting, General Cooling leverages his experience in crisis management, risk assessment, and organizational leadership to guide clients in both the public and private sectors. His firm specializes in leadership development, process optimization, and strategic planning, empowering organizations to achieve mission success through effective, values-based leadership.