Former Apple CEO Tim Cook Stepping Down After 15 Years
Tim Cook, former CEO of Apple Inc (NASDAQ:AAPL), stepped down on August 31, 2026, after leading the company for 15 years. During his tenure, he helped transform Apple with numerous new products and record profits.
Cook's education background is notable, having graduated in 1982 from Auburn University with a bachelor's degree in industrial engineering. He then earned an MBA from Duke University's Fuqua School of Business in 1988, ranking in the top 10% of his class as a Fuqua Scholar.
Before joining Apple in 1998, Cook worked for IBM and Compaq Computer, holding various positions including vice president, executive vice president, and chief operating officer. He also led the Macintosh division.
Cook made headlines in 2014 when he publicly confirmed his sexual orientation as gay in a Bloomberg opinion piece. He stated that coming out was an important step in helping push for human rights and equality for all.