[1] Cocking completed her degree in metallurgy at the University of Melbourne and started work for Defence Science and Technology Organisation, initially in high-temperature alloys to develop a thermocouple for measuring high temperatures, to extend the life of turbine blades at the hot end of Royal Australian Air Force jet engines.
[2] Cocking was appointed as visiting scientist at the United States Naval Research Laboratory.
[2] On her return to Australia, Cocking worked on submarine and air independent propulsion systems, and coordinated a team working to remedy design issues with the Collins-class submarines and has been Research Leader Undersea Platform Systems, DSTO Submarine Science and Technology Co-ordinator, Director of the Maritime Program Office and Chief of Maritime Division before her current role as Chief of Science Strategy and Program Division.
Cocking was awarded a Doctor of Engineering honoris causa by the University of Tasmania on 23 August 2014.
"Dr Cocking has played a substantial and active role in enhancing the interests, capabilities and international connections of the Australian Maritime College and the University.