Meet James Mountain: Rock Island County Board Candidate

In the heart of Rock Island County, a new voice is emerging. James Mountain, a dedicated community member and seasoned cybersecurity expert, is running for a seat on the County Board. His passion for public service, commitment to the community, and extensive leadership experience make him a candidate worth knowing.

Community-Centered Leadership

James Mountain grew up in Rock Island County and currently resides in Coal Valley, IL. His family has lived here for generations, giving him deep roots and a genuine understanding of the area’s needs. As an elected member of the Village of Coal Valley Board of Trustees, James has demonstrated his dedication to public service and local governance.

Professional Experience

James brings over two decades of experience in cybersecurity and information assurance, currently serving as Director of Information Security and Infrastructure for PCC Foundation. He leads teams focused on protecting critical infrastructure, managing risk, and ensuring compliance with national standards. His strategic planning and program management have saved organizations millions and strengthened their resilience against cyber threats.

James’s expertise spans:

• Strategic planning and risk mitigation

• Policy development and regulatory compliance (HIPAA, GLBA, PCI-DSS, SOX, FERPA, FedRAMP)

• Incident response and disaster recovery

• Vendor and third-party management

• Community engagement and board service

  
  

He holds a Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance from Western Governors University and numerous industry certifications, including CISSP, CISM, HCISPP, CCSP, CEH, CHFI, and multiple CompTIA credentials.

Vision for Rock Island County

James’s vision is rooted in practical solutions and community engagement:

• Education: Advocating for quality education and resources for students and teachers.

• Infrastructure: Improving roads, public transportation, and utilities for all residents.

• Public Safety: Supporting law enforcement and emergency services with the resources they need.

• Economic Development: Attracting new businesses and supporting local entrepreneurs to create jobs.

• Environmental Sustainability: Promoting sustainable practices to protect our future.

  
  

Commitment to Inclusivity and Transparency

James believes in listening to every voice. He is committed to maintaining open lines of communication with residents and encourages anyone with questions or concerns to reach out to him directly by email or phone. James’s leadership style is collaborative, transparent, and focused on building trust through personal engagement and responsiveness.

Why James Mountain?

James’s deep connection to Rock Island County, proven leadership in public service and cybersecurity, and commitment to transparency set him apart. He is not just running for office—he is running to serve the community and create a brighter, more inclusive future for all residents.