Cook started as a Forest Technician for the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service in 1979. After earning his B.S. from North Carolina State University, he worked at International Paper, serving until 2007. Cook served in various capacities with the organization, with his most recent position as Eastern

Region Fiber Supply Regional Manager. Afterward, he briefly joined Roanoke Land Development in 2007 as a Project Director and Forest Manager before joining the Waccamaw Community Foundation. With the organization, he provided consulting for small businesses and non-profit organizations. From 2011 to 2013, Cook served as the Director of Programs at Waccamaw Community Foundation, overseeing the grant process's review, analysis, and implementation. He worked in a similar capacity for the Center for Heir's Property Preservation as their Director of Forestry. This project was funded by the U.S. Endowment of Forestry and Communities, Inc., in partnership with the USDA, Forest Service, Natural Resource Conservation Service& Farm Service Agency. In addition, Clemson University, Lowcountry Housing Trust, SC Forestry Commission, and the Black Family Land Trust, among others, helps fight against oppressive systems that commonly stripped heirs' property owners of their, many of whom are communities of color. Cook works for North Carolina State University in the College of Natural Resources as their Executive Director of Forest Assets and Vice President of the Natural Resources Foundation. As Executive Director of Forest Assets, he oversees and manages operations at forests owned or managed by the N.C. State Natural Resources Foundation, Inc. He ensures that operations align with the university's values and strategic planning and adhere to state and federal policies.

Alongside his many successes, Cook has experienced numerous challenges, including racism and discrimination. As a Black man entering the forestry industry at a time when few others existed, he had to learn how to get over racist people and comments. Cook cites that he built armor to preserve because he loves what he does. Moreover, seeing other young Black students succeed in the industry motivates him to continue his work as a role model.