Wesley Nickels
As Chief of Staff, Instructor, and Program manager, Wes keeps our rapidly growing team on track ensuring we meet key objectives and deadlines. In addition to managing the “train on the tracks,” Wes instructs intelligence courses including our Open Source Intelligence Analysis (OSINT) course.
Wes was selected to join Forge after successfully completing the Forge Fellowship program through the DoD Skillbridge partnership. Wes has expanded his understanding of cybersecurity, and the cyber battlefield as it correlates to counterintelligence.
Prior to the Fellowship, Wes spent 20 years with the United States Air Force as a Special Agent with the Air Force Office of Special Investigations (AFOSI). Wes held many positions within AFOSI with some of his most recent being: Superintendent (Supervisory Special Agent) of a criminal investigations detachment; Superintendent for a counterintelligence detachment; Personal Security Advisor to the Secretary of the Air Force; Personal Security Advisor to NATO Air Commander – Afghanistan.
As a criminal investigations and counterintelligence agent, Wes led multiple criminal and counterintelligence investigations and operations. Moreover, Wes was vital in standing up and supporting OSI Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) operations.
Key Accomplishments
2 Time Selection for Special Agent In Charge Positions
Distinguished Graduate Air Force Non-Commissioned Officer Academy
Distinguished Graduate Air Force Combat Leaders Course
Multiple Job Performance Awards and Decorations including four Meritorious Service Medals and six Commendation medals
Forge Fellow & Forge Institute Chief of Staff + ACDC Director
