Charles Cossette

Charlie Cossette brings decades of leadership, service, and real-world experience to his work with Open Circle. A U.S. Army veteran, Charlie began his career as an Infantryman before transitioning into Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD), where he served for over 20 years. During his military service, he deployed to Bosnia, Afghanistan, and Iraq multiple times, operating in high-stakes environments that required clarity, resilience, and deep trust in team dynamics.

Throughout his career, Charlie earned numerous commendations, including three Bronze Stars, reflecting both his technical expertise and his commitment to those he served alongside. His training spans advanced military leadership, resilience, counter-IED operations, and systems-based thinking under pressure.

Today, Charlie lives on his family farm in northern Minnesota, where he continues his path of service in a different form. He is currently pursuing a degree in psychology, deepening his understanding of human behavior, change, and resilience. He teaches and mentors through hands-on programs, including bladesmithing and forge-building, and is the founder of a 90-day wellness program supporting veterans, first responders, and public servants in cultivating both physical strength and mental resilience.

Charlie’s work is rooted in a deep belief in the healing power of nature and community. He is passionate about helping people reconnect—with themselves, each other, and the natural world—as a foundation for transformation. His approach reflects Open Circle’s belief that meaningful change happens through lived experience, trust, and connection.

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