CCC-Columbus Selects Outstanding Alumni

Brett Olson of Columbus has been selected as the 2024 Outstanding Alumni Award recipient from Central Community College-Columbus.

After receiving an associate of applied science degree in information technology from CCC-Columbus, he went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in software engineering and master’s degrees in business administration and computer information systems management. He also holds certifications in various areas, including business, cybersecurity and financial analysis. He is now pursuing a doctorate in business administration at Bellevue University.

Olson is director of information and operations technology at Cornhusker Public Power District where he oversees all aspects of technology, strategy, regulatory compliance and internal auditing and works toward enhancing operational excellence and security.

He has long been a distinguished professional and leader in the energy sector, known for his strategic acumen and innovative contributions. With roles such as research designer at the Department of Energy’s National Energy Technology Laboratory and the lead customer designer and developer for Landis+Gyr’s smart irrigation technology, Olson has driven advancements in technology integration and energy reliability. He founded Nebraska’s first IT/Cyber and Strategic Planning Community, which has enhanced collaboration across 28 wholesale public power districts.

He and his wife, Bobby, have three children.