Cook Bros. Construction, LLC owners, Ralph and John Cook, grew up on a farm in central Illinois. From a very early age, they helped their father run a Registered Angus Beef cattle herd and hay bailing operation.
These activities taught them the importance of honesty, ingenuity, and hard work; values they have carried with them their whole life. When they weren’t involved with farm activities, they were busy learning remodeling and construction skills on their father’s various properties and projects. They were also active in 4-H, football, and basketball.
Upon completing high school, John went to Eastern Illinois University where he graduated with honors, earning a Bachelors of Science degree in Industrial Technology with an emphasis in Manufacturing Engineering. Ralph finished high school and attended Parkland College where he graduated with an Associates degree in Construction Design and Management. During his college years Ralph worked for several contractors, where he picked up many of the hands-on skills that he has today.
Immediately after college graduation, in May 2001, Ralph and John moved to Knoxville and began working as building subcontractors, while buying and improving rental properties to rent or sell on the side. The hands-on experience gained during this time has proven invaluable and helps to separate Cook Bros. from other general contractors. In late 2004 they formed Cook Bros. Construction, LLC to begin focusing on building custom homes, custom remodeling, and home additions. The company continues to grow each year, and now also completes work in the commercial construction field, whether it be renovation or build-outs. Cook Bros. has completed a wide range of projects through the years, while constantly striving for the improvement of processes and perfection of the finished product.