Eric Cochling

Chief Program Officer and General Counsel

Eric Cochling

Eric Cochling is Chief Program Officer and General Counsel at the Georgia Center for Opportunity (GCO). He steers key programs and legal strategies that shape GCO’s initiatives to turn both the social safety net and civil society into better pathways out of poverty. 

Eric has a robust professional background in private practice that spanned business formation, contract negotiations, civil disputes, and more. During his tenure at GCO, Eric has become a leading expert on the systemic and community barriers that limit opportunity for those in poverty. 

His expertise is sought out by governors, policymakers, agency leaders, think tanks, employers, and nonprofits that want to understand and address barriers, particularly those in the safety net, that discourage work, family formation, and upward mobility. 

Beyond Georgia, Eric’s influence extends to national platforms, including Congressional committees, the American Legislative Exchange Council, and state chambers of commerce, where he has advocated for evidence-based solutions to complex challenges.

Outside of work, Eric is a passionate supporter of youth development, serving as a Cub Scout Scoutmaster and den leader, and Sunday School teacher for teens, and a leader of discipleship groups for men. 

Proudly hailing from Georgia, Eric resides in Lawrenceville with his wife, Laura, and their three children.

Prior Experience

• Private legal practice in business, real estate, and contract law
• Legislative Aide, Georgia State House of Representatives 

Education

• Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science, University of Georgia (Magna Cum Laude)
• Juris Doctorate and Master’s Degree in Public Administration, Georgia State University 

Community Involvement

• Founding Board Member, True North Freedom Project
• Founding Board Member, The Other Side Academy – Atlanta 
• Board Member, Georgia Cyber Academy
• Co-Chair, Individual Rights Section of the State Bar of Georgia

Media & Commentary