Meet-A-Staffer: Chris Cooke

Name: Chris Cooke 
Title: AMS Administrator/Analyst
Department: Administration 
Years at the Association: 5 months
Email address: chris.cooke@autocare.org
Favorite apps: TNotion, Reddit, Kindle
Words to live by/motto: Pick your battles but remember that not everything is worth a battle.  

How did you get your start at the Auto Care Association?

A wonderful recruiter contacted me about this great opportunity. When I discovered Right to Repair, I absolutely knew this is where I wanted to be and would be a great opportunity indeed.

What are your work duties at the association?

I work in Emerging Technology (within Administration) and we are responsible for IT, including software, hardware, and related services. 

In which department do you work? What are the key responsibilities of the department?

I work in Emerging Technology (within Administration) and we are responsible for IT, including software, hardware, and related services. 

Where did you go to college? What did you study?

I studied Computer Technology at Indiana State University and Interactive Media at DePaul University. 

Where did you grow up and what are some interesting details about your life before working at the association?

I grew up in Indiana and moved to North Carolina several years ago. I got my first computer in the early 80s and was hooked, cementing my future personally and professionally. I've been in administrative support roles, including medical transcription, travelled extensively installing systems in hotels, and managed data and web systems for professional associations.

What is your favorite part about working at the association? What are the biggest rewards? 

The people and the work we do at the association are absolutely the best. Working with such welcoming and encouraging people every day on something that literally touches everyone in every corner of the world is exciting.   

What unique qualities do you feel you bring to the Auto Care Association?

My qualities aren’t unique, but I believe my experiences, curiosity, persistence, and passion are helpful.   

What are your long-range professional goals for both you and the Auto Care Association?

I want to help people do what they need to do and continue learning about different ways of making that happen.   

What do you feel are the biggest rewards of working in the auto care industry?

One of the biggest rewards is simply being a part of the industry and knowing that I have even a bit part in it.   

Tell us about your life outside of work (family, hobbies, home, etc.).

My husband and I live with our black Lab, George Hairyson, and two cats, Lily and Ruby. My son’s family includes two boys that are my favorite trumpet player (14) and ice hockey goalie (8). I’m an avid knitter and always have something to work on with me wherever I go.   

Tell us a few fun facts about you that would surprise people (special skills, awards, accomplishments, etc.).

I worked with a couple of local rescue groups to transport and foster dogs. I was an unpaid, uncredited extra in the movies Hoosiers and Rudy. I love teaching kids about electronics and computers and then helping them create something for fun.