Her Story
About Dawn
Dawn Cook is a Senior Talent Acquisition Manager for Roto-Wing Pilots at Global Medical Response, where she supports the recruitment of highly skilled professionals who provide life-saving medical transportation services. With more than 20 years of experience in emergency management, hazardous materials response, human resources, and talent acquisition, Dawn has built a career centered on public service, leadership, and developing people. Her diverse background includes emergency preparedness, disaster response, organizational development, and strategic recruiting initiatives that support critical operations.
Throughout her career, Dawn has held leadership roles across emergency management, corporate human resources, and talent acquisition. She began her journey in hazardous materials response and public awareness with Koch Industries, later serving as Emergency Management Director for Gasconade County, Training Officer and Executive Director of the Missouri Emergency Response Commission, and Deputy Director of the State Emergency Management Agency. Her experience includes responding to federally declared disasters, leading preparedness initiatives, and developing programs that strengthened community and organizational resilience. She later transitioned into corporate leadership roles with ABB Transformers, now Hitachi Energy, where she focused on human resources, customer success, and employee development.
Dawn is passionate about helping others recognize their potential, embracing change, and creating opportunities for growth. She credits the mentors who encouraged her to pursue new challenges and the support of her family as key influences in her success. Beyond her professional work, Dawn is an entrepreneur who owns and operates a successful vacation rental and dog boarding business, reflecting her dedication, resilience, and commitment to excellence. Through every chapter of her career, she continues to lead with integrity, compassion, and a focus on making a meaningful impact in the lives of others.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Dawn
01What do you attribute your success to?
Because somebody believed in me. Mentors gave her opportunities and nudges when family did not support her path in hazmat in the early 90s.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've ever received came from mentors who saw potential in me before I fully saw it in myself. They encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone, embrace new challenges, and lead with both compassion and accountability. That guidance has shaped every stage of my career, reminding me that growth comes from saying yes to opportunities, empowering others, and leading with integrity.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Don't sell yourself short. Aim for the stars. Never stop learning. Keep an open mind and take opportunities when they knock.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest opportunities in my field is the ability to embrace change and continuously grow. Throughout my career, every transition has brought new challenges, but each one has also given me the chance to learn new skills, broaden my perspective, and become a stronger leader. I've found that success isn't about avoiding obstacles—it's about staying adaptable, continuing to learn, and viewing every challenge as an opportunity to grow and make a greater impact.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide both my work and personal life are integrity, resilience, compassion, and service to others. I believe success is measured not only by professional accomplishments but by the positive impact we have on the people around us. My family is my greatest source of pride, and raising my five children—including advocating for my youngest son with Down syndrome to reach his full potential—has reinforced the importance of perseverance, inclusion, and believing in others. I also value lifelong learning, creating meaningful relationships, and encouraging people to recognize their strengths and pursue their fullest potential.
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