NORFOLK, Neb. - Military veteran, skilled trades professional, and philanthropist Craig M. Cook has spent his life demonstrating the power of perseverance, education, and service to others.
A 1969 graduate of Wayne High School, Cook was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1970. His military service included deployments to Vietnam from 1971 to 1972 and Korea from 1976 to 1977. During his time in the military, he served in several roles, gaining experiences and skills that would shape his future career.
After leaving the military, Cook used the G.I. Bill to pursue higher education at Northeast Community College.
While attending Northeast, he balanced coursework, full-time employment, and the challenges of post-traumatic stress disorder. He earned an associate of applied science degree in industrial maintenance in 1983 and an electrician-residential and commercial diploma in 1984.
Cook said Northeast faculty members played a critical role in helping him succeed while juggling work and school responsibilities.
“They worked with my schedule and went above and beyond,” Cook said. “Their support helped me complete my education and had a lasting impact on my life.”
The education and training he received at Northeast helped launch a career spanning more than 30 years in the steel industry. Cook began working at Nucor in Norfolk in 1979. Following a workplace injury, he transferred to the company’s operation in Crawfordsville, Indiana, where he helped build, operate, and maintain production equipment before retiring in 2010.
Cook credits his Northeast education for providing the technical skills that supported his success throughout his career.
In 1981, Cook married Lori, and together they raised two daughters. After retirement, the couple returned to Nebraska to be closer to their children and grandson.
Inspired by the opportunities education provided throughout his life, Craig and Lori established the Craig M. & Lori A. Cook Scholarship at Northeast Community College in 2017. The endowed scholarship supports students pursuing careers in the skilled trades and nursing, with preference given to students from northeast Nebraska.
Through their generosity, the Cooks are helping students access educational opportunities that can transform their lives and careers.
Their support of higher education extends beyond Northeast through additional scholarship contributions. The Cooks are members of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Gretna. Craig is also active in the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and Disabled American Veterans.
During remarks at a recent recognition ceremony, Cook reflected on the many challenges and opportunities that shaped his journey, including military service, workplace setbacks, and health challenges. He credited his faith, family, and education for helping him overcome obstacles and achieve success.
“Only by the glory of God am I here,” Cook said.
Today, Cook enjoys golfing, playing cards with friends, and spending time with family. His story reflects a lifelong commitment to service, determination, and giving back. Through military service, professional achievement, and philanthropy, he continues to make a lasting impact on students and communities across Nebraska.
The Alumni Hall of Success honor is awarded to past graduates and students who have achieved significant success in their professions, exhibited exemplary citizenship qualities, and/or made significant contributions to their communities and/or community affairs. Nominees should have completed a recognized diploma or degree from Northeast (or its predecessor colleges) or completed at least 24 credit hours at Northeast to be applied toward a degree at another college or university. Nominations are due May 31 of each year, and a nomination form can be found at: Achievement Awards Nomination
