Tell us a little about yourself. What were you doing before joining Cook’s?

Before joining Cook’s, I worked at Walmart for almost seven years. I worked my way into management and supervised between seven and twelve employees. While I learned a lot there, the workload and schedule were demanding. I was working weekends and every major holiday.

When my wife and I welcomed our first son in March 2025, I realized I didn’t want to miss those important moments with my family. I started looking for a career that would give me a better work-life balance. Through family connections at church, I learned about Cook’s. I applied—and I’m incredibly thankful I got the job.

Did you have any previous pest control experience?

None at all.

I had never even considered pest control as a career. The only experience that really translated was having a clean driving record. Everything else I learned after joining Cook’s.

What is your role today?

I recently earned my own residential route, so I’m now a Residential Pest Control Technician responsible for taking care of my own customers.

What was your first week at Cook’s like?

It was honestly the best first week I’ve ever had at any job.

On my first day, my department manager, Shane, and my district manager took me out to lunch—not to talk about work, but simply to get to know me. It wasn’t awkward or forced. They genuinely cared about me as a person.

A lot of companies say they’re like family, but Cook’s actually lives it. I kept expecting that feeling to fade after the first few weeks, but it never did. They’ve been consistent from day one, and that means a lot to me.

How was the onboarding experience?

Everything was organized and straightforward.

By my second day, my uniforms—including cold-weather and rain gear—were waiting for me. I received a company binder for training notes, business cards, and everything I needed to get started. The only thing I had to purchase myself was a good pair of work boots.

It was refreshing to join a company that invested in setting me up for success from the very beginning.

What surprised you most during your first few weeks?

The culture.

At my first team meeting, everyone immediately introduced themselves and welcomed me. It didn’t feel like people were doing it because they had to—it felt genuine.

Another surprise was seeing the company chaplain available for employees. It showed me that Cook’s truly cares about its people.

What did your training look like?

Training started in my local office, where my supervisor, Eric, walked me through my training checklist and introduced me to the equipment and tools I’d use every day—from traps and exclusion materials to backpack sprayers and other equipment.

After that, I rode with several experienced technicians to get real-world, hands-on experience before attending Home Office training in Decatur.

Who helped you the most during training?

So many people invested in helping me succeed.

My supervisors—Brandon, Eric, and Don—were always willing to answer questions. Technician Xavier Curry told me on day one that I could call him anytime if I needed help, and he absolutely meant it.

At Home Office, Robbie Hammond was an incredible instructor. He made learning fun while making sure everyone understood the material without ever making anyone feel embarrassed for asking questions. Even after training ended, he encouraged us to call him whenever we needed help—and he always followed up afterward.

Justin Kirby was another huge resource through virtual training and has continued checking in to make sure I’m doing well.

What stood out most about the training?

The training facilities were incredible.

Cook’s has realistic residential and commercial training environments, including a full house, commercial kitchens, and even a hospital room. We practiced in settings that closely matched what we’d encounter in the field, which made the transition to real customers much easier.

How hands-on was the training?

Very hands-on.

Every tool we would use in the field was available during training, and we practiced using them exactly the way we would on the job. I’ve never experienced training that prepared me this thoroughly.

How did your managers and instructors set you up for success?

They encouraged questions from day one.

My supervisors and instructors wanted me to understand not just what to do, but why we do it. They made sure I felt confident before sending me out on my own, and that confidence has made all the difference.

What surprised you most about the overall training experience?

Two moments really stood out.

One was when Cook’s COO spent time with our class sharing the company’s values and faith. The other was when CEO Brian Cook personally visited our class, took time to get to know each of us, shook everyone’s hand, and talked about wanting us to succeed—not just at work, but in life and with our families.

I’ve never worked somewhere where leadership invested that kind of personal time in new employees.

What would you tell someone who thinks they don’t have enough experience to work at Cook’s?

I’m proof that experience isn’t required.

Cook’s provides the training, resources, and support you need to succeed. They’ll teach you the technical skills, build your confidence, and make sure you’re prepared before you’re on your own.

How has your confidence changed since your first day?

It’s completely different.

When I started, I worried I wouldn’t know enough to solve customers’ problems. Today, I know I have the skills, knowledge, and tools to confidently take care of every customer I serve.

What new skills have you developed?

I’ve learned how to identify different pest species, educate customers, and think through problems in a more analytical way.

One thing I didn’t expect was how much pest control would improve my problem-solving skills. I pay much closer attention to small details now because I’ve learned those small details often lead to the bigger solution.

Do you continue learning after your initial training?

Absolutely.

I’ve learned something new almost every week. I’ve already completed Leadership 101 and plan to continue taking additional courses like Bed Bug IPM and other advanced training opportunities Cook’s offers.

Do you feel like your team is invested in your success?

Without question.

When I earned my own route, so many technicians congratulated me. My supervisor, Brandon, has really taken me under his wing, and Shane has done the same. Everyone genuinely wants to see each other succeed.

What are your career goals?

Right now, my goal is to continue learning and become the best technician I can be.

Eventually, I’d love to become a training instructor at the Home Office so I can help future technicians the same way others helped me.

What opportunities for growth have you already seen?

I’ve already experienced growth firsthand.

I started as a Route Assistant in November and earned my own route by April. Between additional training classes, leadership development, and learning from customers every day, there are always opportunities to keep growing.

What would you tell a friend who’s thinking about applying to Cook’s?

I’d tell them to go for it.

Cook’s truly cares about its employees. The training is outstanding, the people around you want to help you succeed, and your accomplishments are celebrated.

Most importantly, this job has allowed me to provide for my family while actually spending time with them. I haven’t missed a single milestone with my son, including his first steps. That’s something I wouldn’t trade for anything.

And as a bonus… there’s even a company fishing tournament. What’s not to love?