Senior Military Leader | National Security | Civic & Youth Leadership
Military Leadership
Colonel Settle served 29 years in the United States Army and Army National Guard, culminating in command of an Infantry Battalion responsible for hundreds of soldiers and tens of millions of dollars in equipment. His deployments include combat operations in Iraq and Afghanistan and leadership roles across Jordan, Kuwait, and Bahrain.
Throughout his career he held senior operational and Information Operations leadership positions, integrating joint and coalition efforts and supporting national-level objectives. His awards include three Bronze Star Medals, multiple Meritorious Service Medals, and numerous combat and leadership decorations.
National Security & Public Service
Following military command, Colonel Settle continued public service with the Department of Homeland Security as a Chemical Security Inspector. In this role he conducted risk assessments, compliance inspections, and infrastructure protection initiatives in coordination with federal, state, local, tribal, and private-sector partners.
His work focused on preparedness, prevention, and strengthening systems before crisis occurs — principles that have guided his entire career.
Early Career: Juvenile Justice & Youth Intervention
Before senior military leadership roles, Colonel Settle served ten years as a Juvenile Probation Officer and led Operation First Choice, an early-intervention program designed to redirect delinquent and at-risk youth toward accountability and positive outcomes.
Working closely with courts, schools, families, and law enforcement, he developed a leadership philosophy rooted in prevention, structure, and long-term responsibility — lessons that continue to influence his work today.
LEADERSHIP & IMPACT
Public Speaking & Civic Engagement
Colonel Settle is a frequent speaker on leadership under pressure, accountability, service, and civic responsibility. He regularly addresses schools, Veterans Day ceremonies, VFWs, Elks Lodges, and community organizations, offering practical insights drawn from decades of leadership experience.
His speaking focuses on real-world decision-making, disciplined leadership, and building stronger communities through service.
Education & Athletic Background
Colonel Settle holds a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Strategic Leadership and a Bachelor of Science degree from Southern Illinois University.
He is also a former NCAA Division I All-American athlete, reflecting early excellence in discipline, teamwork, and performance under pressure.
Nonprofit Governance
Colonel Settle serves as a voting Board Member for Broken Together, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization supporting veterans through peer connection, accountability, and recovery-focused programming. In this role he contributes governance oversight and strategic guidance rooted in lived experience and operational leadership.