Cole Peacock is the Chief Operating Officer of CDI Utilities, a Florida-based public utility company that he co-owns with his father. Born on November 19, 1991, and raised in the Florida Keys, Peacock developed an early interest in infrastructure, technology, and hands-on problem-solving—skills that now define his leadership style.
After attending local community college and spending time at the University of Florida, Peacock chose to pursue real-world experience over a traditional academic path. He is also a licensed FAA pilot, a discipline that informs his strategic thinking and risk management approach in business.
At CDI Utilities, Peacock focuses on modernizing utility operations through the integration of smart technology, predictive maintenance systems, and sustainable infrastructure. He holds multiple patents registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office, all centered on improving reliability and efficiency in utility systems.
Before joining CDI Utilities, Peacock founded a cloud computing startup, which he later closed. He credits that experience with teaching him key lessons in business planning, financial sustainability, and adaptability.
In addition to his professional work, Peacock volunteers with the Rotary I Wish Foundation and the Humane Society of Florida. His interests include electronics, aviation, outdoor activities, and technology-driven innovation.
Peacock is a strong advocate for clear goal-setting and continuous improvement. He believes in building practical, efficient systems that directly serve communities. His long-term focus remains on expanding smart utility solutions and improving infrastructure resiliency throughout the state of Florida.
Q&A with Cole Peacock: Defining Success as a Florida-Based Entrepreneur
What does success mean to you as an entrepreneur?
For me, success isn’t just financial. It’s about building something that solves a real problem and adds value. If I can wake up every day doing something that pushes my skills, helps others, and still gives me time to live a good life, that’s success. I also think success includes learning from failure and not being afraid to start over when needed.
How did your upbringing in the Florida Keys influence your entrepreneurial mindset?
Growing up in the Florida Keys taught me to be resourceful. Things don’t always come easy out here—you have to figure things out yourself. That mindset stuck with me. Whether it was helping fix something around the house or seeing how storms affect infrastructure, I was always surrounded by challenges that needed practical solutions. That environment helped shape how I look at business.
What was your biggest lesson from your first failed startup?
The biggest lesson was that passion alone isn’t enough. You need a real business model, product-market fit, and financial discipline. I had a great idea, but I didn’t have the timing or structure to make it sustainable. That failure taught me to ask better questions early and to stay grounded in the numbers.
What habits have helped you stay focused as an entrepreneur?
Writing down goals. I keep both short- and long-term goals written down with the steps needed to reach each one. I check in on my progress regularly. That structure helps me stay accountable without feeling overwhelmed.
How do you stay motivated during tough times?
I remind myself why I started. I also look back at how far I’ve come. If I’ve made it through low points before, I can do it again. I also surround myself with people who think positively and keep pushing forward. That energy helps a lot.
What advice would you give to someone starting their first business?
Start small, but think long-term. Test your idea before going all in. Don’t be afraid to fail—just make sure you learn something each time. And most importantly, stay flexible. Things won’t go exactly as planned, and that’s okay.
Do you believe entrepreneurs are born or made?
I think it’s a mix. Some people are wired to take risks and think differently, but a lot of it can be learned through experience. I didn’t grow up thinking I’d be in business—I just kept following what interested me and learned along the way.
How do you define work-life balance in your entrepreneurial journey?
I believe in making your vocation your vacation. If you love what you’re doing, work doesn’t feel like a burden. That said, I try to set boundaries and make time for flying, outdoor activities, and volunteering. It’s important to reset and keep perspective.
What’s something entrepreneurs often overlook in the early stages?
Customer feedback. It’s easy to build something you like, but the market might not need it. Talk to real users as early as possible. Also, keep your expenses lean until you know you’ve got traction.
What’s next for you?
I’m focused on continuing to innovate within CDI Utilities—especially around smart infrastructure and predictive technology. I’m also exploring how we can apply these tools statewide to build stronger, more efficient utility systems across Florida. The problems are big, but that just means the solutions matter even more.