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PCS to Corporate America
Cameron-Brooks
231 episodes
1 week ago
We are excited to launch the Cameron-Brooks Podcast. For almost 50 years, the Cameron-Brooks Team has partnered with high performing military officers assisting them with transitioning to a successful business career. We have a continuing relationship with a vast majority of our Alumni. Some of our successful Alumni include the CFO of Twitter, Chief Marketing Officer of Tyson Foods, COO of Hewlett Packard Enterprise, COO of RJ Reynolds, VP of Supply Chain at a Fortune 500 Medical Device Company, Executive Vice President of Logistics for Walmart Stores, Inc. to name just a few. The purpose of the Cameron-Brooks podcast is to draw best practices, lessons learned and career advice from our Alumni and other business partners to assist others in reaching their potential and goals. This podcast will help anyone who has a desire to grow both personally and professionally.

While the podcast will mostly be episodes of conversations with Cameron-Brooks Alumni, it will also include book reviews, career advice, interview tips and leadership lessons from Cameron-Brooks Team Members.
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Careers
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We are excited to launch the Cameron-Brooks Podcast. For almost 50 years, the Cameron-Brooks Team has partnered with high performing military officers assisting them with transitioning to a successful business career. We have a continuing relationship with a vast majority of our Alumni. Some of our successful Alumni include the CFO of Twitter, Chief Marketing Officer of Tyson Foods, COO of Hewlett Packard Enterprise, COO of RJ Reynolds, VP of Supply Chain at a Fortune 500 Medical Device Company, Executive Vice President of Logistics for Walmart Stores, Inc. to name just a few. The purpose of the Cameron-Brooks podcast is to draw best practices, lessons learned and career advice from our Alumni and other business partners to assist others in reaching their potential and goals. This podcast will help anyone who has a desire to grow both personally and professionally.

While the podcast will mostly be episodes of conversations with Cameron-Brooks Alumni, it will also include book reviews, career advice, interview tips and leadership lessons from Cameron-Brooks Team Members.
Show more...
Careers
Business
Episodes (20/231)
PCS to Corporate America
E231: Military to Consulting: Pat Curran’s Story
From Army Artillery Officer to Managing Director in Consulting
Lauren Kordzik, Principal at Cameron-Brooks, sat down with Cameron-Brooks alum Pat Curran to discuss his leadership journey from the military to consulting.
When Pat left the Army in 2013, he had a strong operations background and years of leading teams under pressure. After active duty, Pat started his business career at EMCOR and later continued to grow his career at CBRE and through his MBA at Penn State. Today, he serves as Managing Director at Greencastle Associates, a 100% veteran-owned consulting firm.
While Pat relied on his leadership skills from the Army, Pat emphasized the importance of continuous growth and improvement. Below are some key highlights from the conversation as well as Pat's advice for evolving as a leader.
Building a Leadership Style for Business
When reflecting on how he adjusted his leadership style, Pat shared a few key tips:


Balance confidence and humility. Know what you bring to the table, but stay open to learning.
Lead from the trenches. Build trust through what you do, not just your title.
Be transparent. Be willing to admit mistakes and work with people, not above them.
Evolve how you lead. Command structure works in the military. In business, influence, collaboration, and reading the room matter more.

In addition to advice about leadership style, Pat has advice for the aspiring consultant.
Advice for Building a Career in Consulting
For those looking to one day be a managing director in consulting, Pat has some advice:

Work on your people skills. Technical knowledge matters, but relationships are what move your career forward. Listen first, validate what you hear, and show clients you care beyond just getting the deal.
Think like an entrepreneur. Especially in smaller firms, be ready to jump in wherever you're needed and help the company win.
Understand what consulting is really about. You're there to solve client problems and deliver real results.
Keep reading. Pat recommends The Go-Giver, Trusted Advisor, Getting Naked by Patrick Lencioni, and What Got You Here Won't Get You There by Marshall Goldsmith.

Want to hear more from Pat? Check out our full conversation on the podcast.
At Cameron-Brooks, we help officers transition from the military into another fulfilling career in business. Whether you are looking to move from the military to consulting or you are looking to explore your options, we're here to help.
Want to learn more about a career in consulting? Check out our career fields page.
Want advice about your marketability in the business world? We would be happy to talk.
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1 week ago

PCS to Corporate America
E230: Military Leadership in Action: Self-Transcendence at Johnsonville
In this episode, I sit down with Cory Bouck—former Navy Naval Flight Officer, Cameron-Brooks alum, and author of The Lens of Leadership: Being the Leader Others Want to Follow. Together, we explore how military-honed leadership translates into exceptional business results. Today, Cory is making a significant impact in the private sector at Johnsonville Sausage, where culture, coaching, and performance go hand-in-hand. Importantly, this is a great example of self-transcendent military leadership in action in corporate America.

This is Cory's second time being a guest on the podcast. If you missed it, you can listen to his first episode here.
Here is what we cover in this episode:
Inside Johnsonville’s Leadership Culture
Cory opens the curtain on Johnsonville’s mission: create the environment where each of us is required to fully develop our God-given talents—and help others do the same.


Leaders are called “coaches"
Employees are “members"
The Johnsonville Way shows up daily through values like Humble Candor, Collaborative Teamwork, Learning Agility, and Personal Commitment.

Together, these values create a culture of straight talk delivered with care, high standards, and real growth.
Why JMOs Fit and Thrive
Cory explains why junior military officers are prized: they lead up, down, and across, stay relentlessly focused on mission accomplishment, and learn fast. Moreover, that mindset maps directly to Johnsonville’s values and to the expectations of modern companies that need adaptable leaders who close gaps, build teams, and deliver outcomes.

The Lens of Leadership: Serve • Build • Inspire
Drawing from his book, Cory starts with followership—a set of learnable, practical skills that make you professionally essential while creating chances to demonstrate superior leadership. He shares tools like an Impact Map to connect new skills to on-the-job applications, team metrics, and company results. He also talked about the 70-20-10 learning model (learn most by doing).
By applying these tools, leaders can see tangible results while developing themselves and their teams.

Why Listen
If you’re a JMO considering a transition, this episode of PCS to Corporate America demonstrates how to:


Maintain your service-first identity while growing as a leader
Thrive in your first corporate role
Evaluate company culture effectively

Use AI as a force multiplier for high-impact leadership


Overall, listen to learn how to carry your military edge into business and become the leader others want to follow.

The Cameron-Brooks Mission
At Cameron-Brooks, we guide officers through the transition and accompany them along the journey to de-risk the transition and help them reach their goals.

We help JMOs transition into leadership developmental roles where they can apply their talents and lead teams and organizations that flourish.

If you want to talk more about your options, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Your transition partner,

Joel Junker | jjunker@cameron-brooks.com
Show more...
1 month ago
50 minutes 1 second

PCS to Corporate America
E229: Alumni Roundtable: Early Preparation to Military to Business Transition Success
Lessons from Cameron-Brooks Alumni on Military to Business Transition Success
Each Cameron-Brooks Career Conference represents a major career event for our JMOs. In these military to business transition successes, officers together years of military service and months, (maybe even years of preparation in the Development and Preparation Program). Then, they interview with Industry leading companies in business. Our JMOs at the August 2025 Career Conference averaged 10.3 interviews over a two-day period. Additionally, every single JMO was pursued into the follow up process.

Recently, I had the opportunity to sit down with my teammate Geoff Fries and three Cameron-Brooks alumni who attended the August Conference. In this episode, they share their experiences and insights pre-conference in DPP, during the conference, and during the post-conference where they earned offers, evaluated them and made a decision to launch their next career.

Together, we unpacked their stories and explored what their preparation, mindset, and execution looked like resulting in their military to business transition successes.

Below, I’ll highlight their lessons, strategies, and mindsets - from early preparation to behavioral interviews and ultimately into final decision-making.
Meet the Alumni: Three Distinct Paths to Success
Before diving into strategies, here’s where these three standout officers landed:

Matt Dahlager, an Army Military Intelligence Captain, joined Ubicquia, a smart grid technology company that leverages sensors and AI to improve energy infrastructure. He’ll serve as an Area Sales Manager for the Ohio River Valley region.
Spencer Preston, a former Marine Corps officer, accepted a role as a Summit Fellow at USAA in San Antonio, Texas. He’ll rotate through key leadership areas such as CEO staff, property and casualty operations, or CFO development roles.
Weslee Warren, a Navy Surface Warfare Officer, joined Corning Optical Communications in Charlotte, North Carolina, where he’ll work as a Technical Program Manager driving fiber-to-the-premises projects and collaborating with engineering and product teams.

Building a Foundation: Start Early
One of the strongest themes in our conversation was the value of time spent in DPP. On average, candidates spend about 11 months preparing through the Cameron-Brooks program.

Spencer prepared for 38 months.
Wes spent about one year.
Matt invested nearly two years.

During that time, Cameron-Brooks was able to meet them multiple times for in person and virtual preparation sessions, which allowed them to:

Build Trust with Cameron-Brooks
Early engagement allowed each candidate to develop a trusted relationship with the Cameron-Brooks team - vital since our team members advocate for each candidate directly with partner companies.
Conduct Self-Assessment and Reflection
Before they could tell their story to companies, they had to understand it themselves. This meant revisiting military experiences in order to translate their military experiences into relevant business leadership accomplishment with clear impact and results. Leadership, problem-solving, mission alignment, etc. and how that translates into private-sector value.
Learn Business Skills and Apply them
They didn’t just study business - they applied it. By integrating recognized industry concepts that they learned in DPP such as Lean Six Sigma into their current military duties, they created concrete examples that later became powerful interview stories.
 Invest in themselves
Hundreds of hours of practice, reflection, and preparation went into preparation before the Conference.

Learning to Speak the Language of Business
Each alumnus emphasized how critical it was to learn the language o...
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1 month ago

PCS to Corporate America
E228: Self-Transcendent Leadership: Enabling Others to Flourish
A Journey Toward Self-Transcendent Leadership
In January 2023, I began a long-term goal to earn a Master's degree. Initially, my intentions were to learn, grow, and yes, to "check that box" that I had a Master's degree. While I did all three of those things, earning my degree in December 2024, what really happened is that I examined my leadership, who I was, who I was becoming, how I impacted others around me, and how I wanted to lead for the rest of my career. As I look back, I learned that enabling others to thrive was a core part of self-transcendent leadership.

When I enrolled in the Gonzaga University Master's of Organizational Leadership program, I would not have described myself as selfish. Yet through my coursework and reflections, I learned I had several self-embedded leadership behaviors. As I looked more closely, I learned that these behaviors stifle or inhibit others' growth and development. By learning how to be more self-transcendent, focusing on others, and the greater good of the organization and people, a few things happened. Firstly, I became a more effective leader. Secondly, I enjoyed work more. Thirdly, I experienced more positive organizational outcomes.

In this episode of the PCS to Corporate America Podcast, I share some of my journey, explain why being self-transcendent is so important and necessary, and the steps we can take immediately to be less selfish and more serving of others and our organizations.
Self-Transcendent Leadership: Going Beyond Yourself
In transitioning from the military to a business leadership role, it’s easy to focus on personal goals—promotions, achievements, recognition. These are not bad. However, as leaders, our greatest impact comes when we go beyond ourselves. Self-transcendent leadership, inspired by Viktor Frankl’s Man’s Search for Meaning, means pursuing purpose beyond personal gain—serving others, creating excellence for its own sake, and finding meaning even in challenges.
Why It Matters In Business
We all live and work within organizations: companies, teams, boards, and communities. Leaders profoundly shape whether these organizations enable people to flourish or become stifling. In our work organizations, where we spend most of our waking hours, leaders have a duty to create environments where team members feel valued, engaged, and able to use their talents. This responsibility is especially critical for those making the leap from military service, where purpose and camaraderie are deeply ingrained.
Practical Ways to Lead Beyond Yourself
Self-transcendence doesn’t require grand gestures—it’s built in everyday moments. For example:

Be present in conversations.
Show genuine curiosity about your teammates.
Smile and greet people each morning.
Offer a word of encouragement or practical help, like bringing someone coffee.
And when tough decisions arise—such as giving candid feedback or reorganizing a team—lead with honesty, kindness, and a commitment to the other person’s long-term good.

Questions to Guide Your Journey To Self-Transcendent Leadership
Ask yourself:

How do I want others to be different because of my leadership?
What do I need to let go of to lead for others, not just myself?

As Frankl wrote, “It did not really matter what we expected from life, but rather what life expects from us.” In your transition to business, consider—what does your organization expect of you right now, and how can you answer with leadership that transcends self-interest?
The Cameron-Brooks Mission
Our mission at Cameron-Brooks is to help guide officers through the transition and accompany them along the journey to de-risk the process of transitioning to the civilian world and help them reach their goals.

We aim to equip JMOs with the tools and the necessary refl...
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1 month ago
32 minutes 1 second

PCS to Corporate America
E227: How JMOs Can Win in Today’s Market
2025 Mid-Year Review: How Junior Military Officers Can Win in Today's Market
As we've passed the midpoint of 2025 and we look towards the end of 2025, our CEO, Chuck Alvarez, and Senior Vice President, Joel Junker, offered an in-depth review of today’s economic and career landscape. Their discussion was both candid and encouraging. And in doing so, they provided clarity on how JMOs can win in today's market.
This was recorded in in July 2025, and with recent economic data and news with respect to the labor markets, found it fitting to launch.

The "New Normal" Economy
The global economy has entered what Chuck and Joel describe as a “new normal” - a period likely to last the next 10 to 20 years. Unlike past downturns, this environment is shaped by long-term, structural shifts:



First, interest rates and inflation remain high. The Federal Reserve raised rates by 500 basis points, slowing consumer spending and making it harder for businesses to borrow money.


Second, geopolitical uncertainty is making companies more cautious. Conflicts overseas, policy changes at home, and an election year have all slowed down hiring decisions.


Third, artificial intelligence is reshaping the workplace. AI and automation are changing white-collar roles. Companies are building leaner teams but expect employees to bring stronger skills.


The White-Collar Recession: What It Means For JMOs
Joel highlighted the ongoing white-collar recession. Compared to 2022, there are about 3% fewer white-collar jobs available, with companies paying more attention to every new hire. Adding to this:



College graduates face unemployment rates between 6-7%.


Veterans hover around 6% unemployment, higher than the national average.


MBA graduates aren’t immune either - 25% of Harvard Business School’s Class of 2025 were unemployed at graduation.


At first glance, these numbers may seem discouraging. But the silver lining is that the jobs that remain are more complex, high-impact, and reserved for exceptional leaders. For prepared JMOs, this is a tremendous opportunity to transition out and add value to your future employer in a tighter market.

Why JMOs Have a Competitive Edge
Despite the tough environment, Chuck and Joel emphasized that highly capable JMOs remain in strong demand. Companies are looking for leaders who can solve problems, collaborate across functions, and drive results under pressure - all strengths forged through military service.
In fact, the shift toward fewer but more demanding roles plays directly to the strengths of transitioning officers. JMOs bring:



Proven leadership in high-stakes environments


Analytical and problem-solving skills developed in dynamic conditions


A servant-leader mindset that aligns with today’s emphasis on collaboration and impact


However, natural ability alone isn’t enough. Preparation is the differentiator.

The Mindset That Wins
Joel used a powerful analogy: you can’t “roll out of bed and run a marathon.” Just as an athlete trains months in advance, JMOs must approach their transition with disciplined preparation.
Key mindsets include:



Excellence mindset – hold yourself to the highest standard and commit to continuous learning.


Giver mindset – focus on serving others and lead with humility.


Growth mindset – embrace change, pursue challenging assignments, and avoid the trap of underemployment.


This combination of preparation and mindset ensures JMOs not only compete but thrive against experienced business professionals ...
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2 months ago
46 minutes 38 seconds

PCS to Corporate America
E226: Post June 2025 CC Review
Cameron-Brooks June 2025 Career Conference Review: Insights for Your Military-to-Business Transition
Transitioning from the military to a professional business career is a pivotal moment for any Junior Military Officer (JMO). At Cameron-Brooks, our mission is to help JMOs navigate this career transition with clarity and confidence through a three-step approach:
1) Prepare
2) Search
3) Launch
Our June 2025 Post-Conference Review offered a deep dive into the April Career Conference results and shared actionable insights for those preparing for the August 2025 conference, and those in the Cameron-Brooks Development and Preparation Program.
I was joined by three recent Cameron-Brooks Alumnus who attended the Conference: Jesse DeVries (Caterpillar), Patrick McMahan (Intuitive Surgical), and Connor McNamara (Optimized Process Designs, LLC - a Koch Engineered Solutions company.
Whether you are actively preparing for your transition or simply exploring what’s possible, here are the biggest takeaways from our latest Career Conference and alumni panel.

June 2025 Conference Recap: A Fast-Paced Career Launchpad
The Cameron-Brooks Career Conference is a 4.5 day, high-intensity event, where you'll meet with Hiring Managers for open positions from industry leading companies spanning across multiple industries. At the June Conference, 46 JMOs attended, and 445 interviews were conducted. Every single JMO was "pursued" to the next round of interviews.
These open positions are highly complex, designed to be filled by high-performing junior leadership talent in order to get into a company's succession planning.
With about two openings per position on average, some opportunities were highly competitive single openings, while others offered broader geographic flexibility and multiple openings. Every JMO had multiple pathways to success. 

Navigating the Market and Maximizing Interviews
Despite a competitive economy - high interest rates and unemployment hovering around 4.2% (Which is relatively normal) - The JMOs interviewed for premium roles in leadership, operations, sales, and engineering.
Key lessons from the conference:



Be a Giver: Successful candidates focused on solving the company problem first (The open position). When candidates successfully connected their background, built rapport and demonstrated genuine interest in that position, the companies reciprocated with a pursuit for the next round of interviews, and then offers onsite.


Preparation Drives Pursuits: The best-prepared JMOs - those who dressed for success, mastered their stories, and tailored their answers - earned the most follow-up interviews. There was a direct correlation between time spent in preparation (Phase 1 -Preparation), and successfully launching (Phase 3 - Launch).


Embrace a Broad Search: Flexibility in industry and location opened the door for a broader search (Phase 2 - Search).


The average time from conference to signed offer was 13.25 working days, with some candidates accepting in as few as six working days.

Preparing Like a Pro: The Cameron-Brooks Process
Our alumni panel reinforced the importance of preparation prior to, during, and post-conference.

Pre-Conference


Development & Preparation Program (DPP): Build your foundation, refine your stories, and understand how your military experience translates.


Study Groups: Considered the most valuable tool for refining answers and building confidence.


Mock Interviews: Essential to remove military jargon and communicate stories effectively.


Reading List: Builds business acumen and helps connect with the interviewers, and recognized industry practices and topics suc...
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2 months ago
1 hour 28 minutes 54 seconds

PCS to Corporate America
E225: Avoid the Career Do-Over – Transition Rule #5
E225: Avoid the Career Do-Over - Transition Rule #5
When it comes to transitioning from the military to the business world, you want to avoid the career do-over. Many officers define a successful transition by landing that first post-military job. At Cameron-Brooks, we define the transition not by accepting a job. We define a successful transition as 3-4 years down the road when you’ve transitioned from a military leader into a business leader with a track record of results.

That’s why Rule #5 in our Career Transition Playbook is: Avoid the Career Do-Over.

Joining me is Lauren Kordzik, one of our Principals on the client side of our business, joined me to discuss the Career Do-Overs as she spends her time working with JMOs in our program at the Conference and in the Follow-Up Process. Lauren works closely with our client companies and has deep insight into what companies are looking for in high-performing JMOs. She also spends most of her time between conferences working with our Alumni who have successfully transitioned out, so she has credible and valuable insights and data points into personal and professional life post military.

Before we get into Rule 5 - the final rule in the Cameron-Brooks JMO Transition Rules to business - let's recap the Cameron-Brooks JMO Transition Rules 1-4:

1. E218: Transition Rule #1 – Don’t Do It Alone
2. E219: Transition Rule #2 – Develop an Investment Mindset
3. E220: Transition Rule #3 – Build a Non-Traditional Career Search Strategy
4. E223: Transition Rule #4 – Embrace the Growth Mindset: Past Success ≠ Future Success

What Is a Career Do-Over?
A career do-over happens when someone pivots out of a role too quickly - sometimes within 6 to 12 months - because the position didn’t meet expectations, or one feels underemployed. Essentially, it’s a restart that often stems from a misaligned strategy, impatience, or a misunderstanding of how to grow a business career.

Lauren put it best during a recent conversation: “The transition doesn’t end when you accept the job. It starts there. The honeymoon period fades quickly, and that’s when the real learning and growth begins.”
Why Job-Hopping Hurts Your Trajectory
We often use the analogy of a wedding cake. A successful business career builds layer upon layer - roles, projects, mentors, results. But frequent job changes early in a career leave you with cupcakes instead of a tiered cake. There’s no foundation to support long-term growth.

Lauren offered another great metaphor: Candyland. Every job change sends you back to the beginning of the gameboard. You’re not progressing; you’re just starting over again and again. By the time someone hits their early 30s, they may have worked at 3 or 4 companies with little to show in terms of upward mobility or leadership progression.

Another analogy that I often use is taking early withdrawals from a retirement account. When you take early withdrawals, you can be penalized and have to pay taxes. If this were your career, you don’t just lose what you withdraw, but you also interrupt the compounding growth in your career, resulting in losses over time.

In both cases, short-term decisions can sabotage long-term success and limit the full potential of your investment. You also lose momentum, making it harder to build the kind of upward trajectory that leads to greater responsibility, leadership, and future opportunity.
Focus on Intrinsic Motivators Over Extrinsic Rewards
One of the biggest drivers of do-overs? Choosing a job based solely on extrinsic factors—money, location, title. While those are important, they shouldn’t outweigh intrinsic factors like culture fit, learning opportunities, and how well the role aligns with your natural talents.
Lauren referenced Stephen Covey’s “Big rocks in the jar" analogy.
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3 months ago
48 minutes 34 seconds

PCS to Corporate America
E224: Beau Hughes – JMO to Corporate Procurement
Beau Hughes – HF Sinclair: Corporate Procurement Leader
It was an absolute pleasure to have my good friend, Beau Hughes, join me on the PCS to Corporate America Podcast. Beau works for HF Sinclair as a Procurement Supervisor in their Corporate Procurement team.  Find out how Beau went from JMO to Corporate Procurement Leader in our latest podcast.
Beau was one of the first JMOs I had the opportunity to work with when I joined Cameron-Brooks in 2023. Since then, we’ve grown close, and I’ve enjoyed watching him build a successful life and career after the Army.
A former U.S. Army Logistics Officer, Beau launched his corporate career in November 2023 with HF Sinclair in Tulsa, OK. Right after accepting the offer through the November 2023 Career Conference, Beau and his wife welcomed their son into the world. Since then, things haven’t slowed down.
Within his first year, Beau earned a promotion and returned to a Career Conference as a hiring manager, where he hired another Cameron-Brooks Alumnus.
Beau’s transition from the Army to a rising leader in corporate procurement is full of lessons for junior military officers. His story is inspiring, practical, and worth hearing.

Transitioning to Civilian Life with Purpose
With a baby on the way and a strong desire to be more present at home, Beau made the decision to leave the Army in early 2023. Like many officers, he started the job search on his own and quickly saw how challenging it can be to navigate the civilian hiring process.
That’s when a friend pointed him to Cameron-Brooks. After connecting with our team in August, Beau attended the November 2023 Career Conference and landed a Procurement Specialist role with HF Sinclair.


“Cameron-Brooks made the process easy. I just had to show up prepared.”

Redefining Procurement: Strategy Over Purchasing
At HF Sinclair, Beau learned quickly that procurement is far more strategic than most people think.


“I get a little offended when people call it purchasing. We’re building partnerships to achieve the lowest total cost of ownership, not just buying stuff.”

His responsibilities include managing sourcing events, writing contracts, and being a strategic partner to internal teams. He found success quickly, even leading one of the smoothest refinery turnarounds in the company’s recent history.

Earning a Promotion and Managing Life Transitions
The first year wasn’t easy, but it was worth it. In March 2025, a little over a year after starting, Beau was promoted to Procurement Supervisor and relocated to El Dorado, Kansas.
Despite a steep learning curve and the demands of a new role, Beau felt supported throughout the process.


“You’re not just thrown to the wolves. You’re challenged, yes, but supported the whole way.”

During this time, Beau also navigated becoming a new dad, moving states, and buying a home. He also mentioned the value of having more predictability in his schedule. He’s not necessarily working less, but he has more control.

Beau’s Advice for JMOs
Beau had some solid advice for fellow officers considering a move to business:



Be hungry and humble – Learn fast, ask questions, and show up ready to work.


Own your learning – No one’s handing you a manual. Be proactive.


Stay authentic – Companies want the real you, not a script.


Trust the process – The Cameron-Brooks program works if you do the work.



“It’s not instant gratification, but it works. You just have to grind, learn, and grow.”

What Makes Cameron-Brooks Candidates Stand Out?
Now that Beau is a hiring manager, he sees firsthand the quality of Cameron-Brooks candidates:

Show more...
4 months ago
58 minutes 21 seconds

PCS to Corporate America
E223: Transition Rule #4 – Past Success Does Not Equal Future Success
E223: Transition Rule #4 – Past Success ≠ Future Success
Why do we say, "Past success does not equal future success?" This episode is for those transitioning JMOs who have experienced past success in the military and are working towards business leadership careers. Also, it is for those who have tasted success in the military and who want to avoid missteps in the transition.
I teamed up with Tim Kirchner, and together we cover the following topics:




Ego vs. Authentic-Self
The ways past success can create a sense of comfort, control, and security. How it can make us feel like we've "arrived".
How it can cloud our judgment and decision-making skills.
Different ways we naturally tend to lose focus and get caught up in urgent and daily tasks, and how those things can get in the way of our goals.
I share my experience and how I struggled with an unhealthy belief of "being owed" something in my next chapter.
Being clear about your desired result and the value of seeking guidance and adopting a growth mindset, regardless of experience level.
Past success is a very strong indicator of future potential.
Encouragement on not losing focus, making the transition a priority, and how to stay a student in the transition.



That’s why Transition Rule #4 is: Past Success ≠ Future Success—not unless you change how you think and prepare.




What Does “Past Success Does Not Equal Future Success” Mean?
In the military, many leaders have led teams, made critical decisions, and delivered strong results. Success often followed a clear structure and defined roles.
However, the business world operates differently. Past achievements don’t automatically lead to future success in a new environment.
There are two challenges that frequently show up during the transition:
1. EgoSome assume their accomplishments will speak for themselves. Yet, most hiring managers don’t fully understand military roles. It becomes important to connect the dots and clearly show how experience applies.
2. Lack of FocusTransition preparation often gets delayed. Busy schedules take over, and planning gets pushed aside until it’s nearly too late.

Where Do These Challenges Appear Most Often?
In Interviews:Even high-performing JMOs have received feedback such as, “Didn’t show enough business understanding.” In these cases, the leadership skills were there—but the candidate hadn’t prepared in the way business leaders expected.
During Preparation:Some officers in our Development & Preparation Program (DPP) initially struggled to stay on track. On the other hand, those who began early and followed a clear plan arrived prepared—and it showed in their interviews.

Why This Rule Matters
Success in one setting doesn’t guarantee success in another. Military leadership typically involves giving orders and following a chain of command. In contrast, business leadership calls for influence, adaptability, and quick decision-making.
To thrive, adapting to new expectations is essential.

The Right Mindset
Stay Focused:Clear career goals help guide daily decisions. Every step forward should move closer to that goal.
Stay Hungry and Humble:A learning mindset is critical. Seeking advice from those who understand both military and business environments can make a big difference. Staying hungry to grow and humble enough to learn creates long-term success.

What to Do Next
Start early.Don’t wait to begin preparing. A strong plan—beyond just a resume—builds clarity and confidence. The earlier the process begins, the better the outcome. Simply put, early action leads to better results.

The Big Takeaway
Military experience builds a strong foundation,
Show more...
5 months ago

PCS to Corporate America
E222: April 2025 Post Conference Review
April 2025 Post-Conference Review: Leadership in an Uncertain Market
Our April 2025 Post-Conference Review is live! The officers who attended the Career Conference have officially completed the follow-up process and made important career decisions. Over the last four weeks, they met with hiring managers from companies across the country, both virtually and in person. These meetings gave them a deeper look at company cultures, job responsibilities, and long-term opportunities. We are incredibly proud of how each candidate showed up with strong preparation, professionalism, and leadership.
Despite ongoing economic challenges, including inflation, tariffs, and supply chain issues, companies continue to invest in top leadership talent. Every company at the conference came ready to hire. The strong pursuit rate and average number of interviews per candidate reflect the high level of preparation and performance shown by our JMOs. Their ability to communicate clearly, think critically, and adapt quickly helped them stand out.
To explore these trends and hear real stories from the field, check out our latest Cameron-Brooks Podcast episode. We spoke with recent alumni Chris Sharp, AJ Sotillo and Justin Martinez, who shared their personal experiences from the conference and follow-up phase. Each of them took a unique path, but common themes of resilience, clarity, and learning stood out.
In this episode, you’ll hear:



Key trends from the April 2025 Conference


How candidates approached follow-up interviews


How they evaluated companies and chose the right roles


The hardest parts of the transition


Actionable advice for JMOs preparing for their own career search


Congratulations to the April 2025 candidates and the client companies who partnered with us. Your hard work, commitment, and willingness to grow continue to inspire our team and community.
Brock Dudley
210.874.1495 || bdudley@cameron-brooks.com
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5 months ago
1 hour 19 minutes 23 seconds

PCS to Corporate America
E221: Healthy Leaders are Strong Leaders
Transitioning from the military to business brings immense opportunities and new challenges. While you bring valuable skills from your service, focusing on personal well-being and the importance of self-care is crucial for effective leadership in your next career.

In this podcast, I interview Sarah Draper about how learning to pause, meditate, and spending time in silence are tools for self-care.  Dr. Adrian Popa, podcast guest from Episode 213, introduced me to Sarah through her 2024 TEDx talk.

Sarah is a former FBI agent, a graduate of West Point, and an Army veteran. Today, she operates her own leadership and consulting practice.  Sarah emphasizes that truly serving others as a leader requires taking care of yourself first. She notes a past belief in service-oriented cultures that self-care is selfish, but this leads to a cumulative negative impact of burnout.

Burnout, characterized by exhaustion, lack of professional efficacy, and sometimes cynicism, is a real risk. When leaders neglect themselves, they can unintentionally push their stress onto their teams, hindering performance. Learning to recognize when something feels "off" internally is vital for adaptation and growth.

Sarah shares tangible tools to build resilience and focus on the importance of self-care. Mindfulness meditation, even just 10-15 minutes daily, trains your mind to manage distractions and improves focus. A gratitude practice, like noting three good things, helps counteract our brain's negativity bias and fosters a more positive perspective. Intentional breath work offers quick techniques to manage stress and regulate your nervous system in challenging moments.

Developing these "human skills" and fostering trusted relationships is key to continuous self-development and crucial for leaders navigating transitions. Prioritizing your well-being isn't selfish; it's essential for you to be your best leader in the business world.

I am incredibly grateful to have met Sarah, and I appreciate her devoting her time and support to transitioning military officers and Cameron-Brooks.
To learn more, check out our podcast, Cameron-Brooks: PCS to Corporate America. You can also visit our website at cameron-brooks.com or follow us on LinkedIn.
If you’d like to talk through your goals and build a plan, I’d love to connect. Let’s take the next step together.
Joel
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6 months ago

PCS to Corporate America
E220: Transition Rule #3 – Throw Out the Traditional Career Search
This episode is for JMOs who are ready to transition and don’t want to take a step back in their next business career. In it, we:



Define who this is for: JMOs aiming to lead and take on greater responsibility in a Business Leadership Career.


Explain the "Traditional Career Search": Glassdoor, LinkedIn, Indeed, USAJOBS, etc.


Define the "Non-Traditional Career Search."


Explore why JMOs often default to the traditional approach.


Share key takeaways and closing thoughts.


JMOs are traditional candidates for defense-sector roles, but in the private sector, they are seen as non-traditional candidates.
That is why Transition Rule #3 is: Throw Out the Traditional Career Search if you are aiming for upward mobility in business leadership.




What is the "Traditional Career Search"?


Searching based on past experience: “I have this experience in this industry,” or “I have this degree.” This focuses on what you have done, not your potential for leadership growth.


Narrowing your options by what you know: Location or Career Field, or both. “I am a Logistics Officer, and my home of record is Dallas, TX, so I will pursue Logistics in Dallas.”


Applying through job boards and online platforms: Glassdoor, LinkedIn, Indeed, USAJOBS.


“Networking” that often feels vague or produces unclear outcomes.


Important: The traditional search can work well for JMOs staying in defense, where their functional experience directly matches role requirements. But if you are making a hard pivot into business leadership, you need a different approach.




The Reality of Online Applications in 2025


Job postings on LinkedIn attract 150 or more applicants. Popular roles see 300 or more.


Indeed and Glassdoor listings often draw 200 to 500 candidates for a single role.


Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) filter out 75% to 90% of résumés before they reach a human.


The result? A success rate of only 2% to 5% for landing an interview via online applications.




What is the "Non-Traditional Career Search"?
A non-traditional search takes a different approach. It focuses on:



Highlighting your leadership experience, potential, and ambition as your key value.


Embracing a Growth and Investment Mindset.


Expanding and comparing multiple opportunities. This does not mean applying to 200 companies but making quality attempts.


Consider this: Of the 168 million people in the U.S. workforce, only 1.3 million are active-duty service members. Of those, about 200,000 to 234,000 are officers. JMOs (typically O-1 to O-3, with some O-4s) make up about 100,000 to 140,000. That is less than 0.1% of the total U.S. workforce.
JMOs are a specialized leadership talent pool. Their skills are highly valuable but often overlooked by traditional hiring methods. The key is getting in front of companies that recognize your unique potential.




The Big Question
If you are a JMO pivoting to business, ask yourself:
Do you know anyone who has lined up 10 to 12 quality interviews over two days? Interviews with hiring managers and decision-makers that bypass online filters, for roles that match or exceed their current pay and responsibility, and align with their separation timeline?
This is what a targeted, quality-driven search looks like. A broad search gives you the power of comparison, helps you gather facts and real data,
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6 months ago

PCS to Corporate America
E219: Transition Rule #2 – Develop an Investment Mindset
Develop an Investment Mindset: Why This Tip Matters
As a Junior Military Officer, your military experience has shaped how you think, lead, and solve problems. But when it comes to your next step, developing an investment mindset for a military transition can be just as important as your skill set.
That’s why Transition Tip #2 is: Develop an Investment Mindset.
At Cameron-Brooks, we’ve seen this mindset make all the difference. It’s about shifting your focus from the short-term to the long-term, from immediate comfort to future growth. In our recent episode, I sat down with Joel Junker and Tim Kirchner to dig into this idea and explain why it’s so valuable.

What Is an Investment Mindset?
Joel explains that an investment mindset means viewing your career the same way you’d approach a financial investment. You wouldn’t expect instant results from your retirement savings. Instead, you plan, stay patient, and make steady progress toward long-term returns.
The same thinking applies to your career. You may need to pass on the “perfect” location or initial title if it means taking a role with greater development potential. It’s about trusting the process, being intentional, and playing the long game.

Why Delayed Gratification Pays Off
During our conversation, Tim emphasized the importance of delayed gratification. It’s tempting to focus on what feels good right now, like a higher starting salary or a shorter commute. But these short-term wins don’t always lead to long-term success.
Instead, think about where you want to be in five or ten years. What roles and experiences will help you get there? An investment mindset encourages you to choose a path that stretches you and helps you grow.

Facing the Challenges of Transition
We also discussed how the transition from the military to business can feel uncertain. The military offers structure, clarity, and control. Civilian careers often feel more open-ended.
That uncertainty can trigger a need for control. Some JMOs rush into decisions simply to regain a sense of stability. However, these emotional decisions can work against your long-term goals.
Joel pointed out that the key is preparation. When you understand your options, you can make confident, well-informed decisions. That lowers stress and leads to better outcomes.

How to Build an Investment Mindset
To help you develop this mindset, we’ve outlined a few practical steps:



Create a long-term career plan with goals that guide your short-term decisions.


Prioritize growth opportunities over short-term comforts like location or salary.


Educate yourself by reading books like Mindset by Carol Dweck and The 5 Patterns of Extraordinary Careers.


Work on your communication skills, including how you share your story and goals.


Be open to multiple career paths, and evaluate each one objectively.


Talk to mentors who can guide you through the process and offer honest advice.


Reframing the Transition as an Adventure
As we wrapped up, Tim encouraged JMOs to look at the transition as an adventure. This mindset adds a sense of curiosity and energy to the process. Instead of seeing the unknown as something to fear, view it as a chance to explore, grow, and discover your next chapter.
Joel added that growth takes time. With a strong plan and consistent effort, the results will come. Every challenge is a step forward when you’re building toward something greater.

Let’s Take the Next Step Together
Are you ready to think long-term and approach your transition with confidence? Developing an investment mindset for your military transition is a great place to start.
To learn more, check out our podcast,
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6 months ago

PCS to Corporate America
E218: Transition Rule #1 – Don’t Do It Alone
Don’t Do It Alone: Your Guide to a Successful Military-to-Business Transition
Making the move from military leadership to the business world? It’s a big step. It’s exciting, challenging, and—if we’re being honest—a little overwhelming. But here’s the thing: you don’t have to do it alone.

At Cameron-Brooks, we’ve spent nearly 50 years helping Junior Military Officers (JMOs) make this transition successfully. We’ve learned that those who navigate this shift most effectively follow six critical rules. In this episode, we start with Rule 1: Don't Do It Alone - Find Your Guide. 
Why You Need a Guide
Transitioning isn’t just about landing a job—it’s about evolving into a business leader. A great guide can help you:

Fill in the knowledge gaps about corporate culture
Keep you accountable and boost your confidence
Navigate the nuances of the business world
Steer clear of common mistakes that trip up many JMOs

What to Look for in a Guide
Not all transition resources are created equal. The right guide will have:

A solid track record in both business and military transitions
A strong professional network to connect you with opportunities
Honest, constructive feedback to help you grow
A genuine investment in your long-term success
Transparency, integrity, and the ability to build real trust

Our Commitment to You
At Cameron-Brooks, we don’t do quick-fix solutions. Our mission is transformation, not transactions. We’re here to help you grow, reflect, and step into the next phase of your career with confidence.

In this episode, I sat down with Joel Junker and Tim Kirchner to dive into this crucial first step: finding the right guide. We discuss key insights, practical strategies and the value of a guide in the transition in order to help you build a plan, develop a strategy and start building the foundation for your transition.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Want to learn more? Check out our podcast, Cameron-Brooks: PCS to Corporate America, follow us on LinkedIn or check out our website. 

If you want to chat and learn more about your options or your marketability, let me know. Always happy to set up a no pressure conversation.

Brock Dudley


(210) 874-1495 | bdudley@cameron-brooks.com

Brock Dudley | LinkedIn
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7 months ago

PCS to Corporate America
E217: January 2025 Post Conference Review
Our January 2025 Post Conference Review is live, and I always look forward to the weeks following a Career Conference and visiting with our recent alumni. It’s the culmination of an incredible amount of effort both from the candidates and our team. Seeing these talented JMOs, some having spent over two years in the Cameron-Brooks Development and Preparation Program, receive offers and make career decisions is nothing short of inspiring.
It’s not just about the job offers; it’s about the journey. The relationships built. The challenges overcome. The lessons learned. Watching LinkedIn light up with posts from our alumni celebrating their new careers, surrounded by the support of their community, is one of the best parts of my job.
To all the JMOs, client companies, and the entire Cameron-Brooks team—thank you for making another Career Conference a success! And most importantly, congratulations to the January 2025 Candidates and Companies!

The Panel
In this episode, I sat down with three recent Cameron-Brooks alumni who shared their firsthand experiences from the Career Conference and the critical “follow-up” process. They pulled back the curtain on what it was really like—insights, surprises, and everything in between. Meet the panel:

Liam O'Hara, TransDigm Group, Inc. – Captain, Army Air Defense
Frank Cebreros, Amcor – Captain, Army Armor
Ty McAvoy, Civco Medical Solutions – LTJG, Surface Warfare Officer

The "follow-up process" refers to the structured steps that take place after their Career Conference, where candidates interview with multiple companies in person or on-site with the objective to go deeper and learn more, and then secure offers. Once offers are in hand, they have the ability to evaluate options, compare, and then make the best decision for them based on:

Fit!
Career Goals
Career Opportunities
Nature of work
Team Chemistry
Culture
Salary
Location

Topics of Discussion and Sample Questions Asked
Here’s a sneak peek of what we discussed and questions that were asked:

Career Conference Statistics – January 2025 data
Sample Opportunities – What industries and roles were available
Best Interview Prep Tips & Techniques – What works
Salary Expectations – Did the opportunities align with expectations?
Why Cameron-Brooks? – The value of our partnership
Hiring Manager Conversations – What to expect
The Impact of Study Groups – How they drove preparation and confidence
The Power of Community – Why going through this with a network matters
How to Ace Your Interview – Actionable insights for success

And much more!

Key Themes
Some of the key themes that emerged from our conversation were:


1.) The Power of Relationships – Your network is everything. Having a community that sharpens you, pushes you, and walks alongside you through this transition is invaluable. Study Groups, the Discord platform, follow-up trips—these relationships make all the difference.




2.) Applying the Reading Program – Books like Integrity Selling and Financial Intelligence weren’t just theory—they shaped how these candidates approached their interviews and careers. Learning, applying, and operationalizing these concepts set them apart.


3.) The Follow-Up Team's Impact – There’s an entire engine behind the scenes—coordinating logistics, travel, and on-site interviews. Field rides, plant tours, site visits—these aren’t just meetings; they’re opportunities to connect, learn, and solidify decisions.
Final Thoughts
These Career Conference recap conversations are a goldmine for those preparing for their own transition.
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8 months ago
1 hour 26 minutes 47 seconds

PCS to Corporate America
How Defining Goals, Embracing Preparation and Learning Lead to Career Success (E216)
Leaving the structured world of the military for the uncertainty of civilian life can be a daunting task. In this episode of the PCS to Corporate America Podcast, I speak with Mike Sweeney, a former Army junior military officer (JMO) who successfully navigated this transition over 20 years ago. Mike shares his insights and experiences on how defining goals, embracing preparation, and learning lead to career success.  He offers invaluable advice to those currently preparing for their own transition.

The Importance of Preparation

Mike emphasizes the importance of preparation, particularly when it comes to interviewing. Drawing parallels to the meticulous practice routine of comedian Jerry Seinfeld, Mike stresses the need for JMOs to practice and rehearse their interview responses and specifically highlights the need to master the answer to "Tell me about yourself.” This preparation helps build confidence and allows one to be authentic in the interview.

Defining Your "Good Employment Offer"

Beyond acing interviews, Mike encourages JMOs to define what constitutes a "good offer" for them. Rather than solely focusing on salary, he suggests considering factors like company culture, values, learning opportunities, team dynamics, and work-life balance. This personalized approach helps ensure alignment between individual aspirations and the chosen career path. Today, as a Leadership Coach, Mike encourages his clients to think about their career opportunities similarly.

Embracing Lifelong Learning

A key theme throughout the conversation with Mike is the importance of continuous learning and development. Mike is an avid reader and champions reading as a way to gain new perspectives, develop leadership skills, and cultivate a reflective mindset. He also says that, unlike when he and I transitioned 20+ years ago, to use other mediums like podcasts and videos for learning and self-development. The key is to be intentional and directed in consuming information that fosters growth.

Mike’s career is an excellent example of a successful transition from military to civilian life. His emphasis on preparation, thoughtful decision-making, and continuous learning provides valuable guidance for current JMOs navigating this significant life change. By engaging with resources like those offered by Cameron-Brooks and embracing a mindset of continuous growth, individuals can confidently embark on their post-military careers.

Thank you for listening, and I hope you enjoy the podcast!

To stay connected, we encourage you to check out our website and YouTube Channel and follow us on LinkedIn.

If you want to learn more about your transition options, please get in touch with us.

You can also check out our Transition Guide on “3 Game-Changing Strategies for JMOs Making the Jump to Business” for additional transition tips.

To stay connected, I recommend subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following us on LinkedIn.

Joel
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9 months ago

PCS to Corporate America
From JMO to C-Suite: Lessons Learned (E215)
Learn how Fran Lawler went from JMO to C-Suite. This former officer is an incredibly successful leader. She is a 1995 West Point Graduate, served six successful years in the Army as a Medical Service Corps Officer, and transitioned to a business career in 2001 through Cameron-Brooks. She earned her MBA at Harvard and has held high-level human resources roles, including several Chief Human Resources Officer positions. She recently founded her own leadership consulting and coaching company, Harvest Cove Talent Partners.

Fran is also the first officer I recruited to participate in the Cameron-Brooks program. I met her in Leesville, LA, just outside Fort Polk, LA (now Fort Johnson) in May 2000. She agreed to be a podcast guest to share her experience and leadership lessons. She shares her incredible story, filled with lessons on resilience, adaptability, and the pursuit of personal growth. Fran’s insights shed light on what it takes to lead with authenticity and impact.
Identify Personal Purpose
A pivotal moment in Fran’s career was crafting her personal purpose statement. This exercise helped her align her career aspirations with her deeper values, transforming her approach to leadership and teamwork. As Fran shares, finding purpose was a professional milestone and a personal breakthrough that shaped her trajectory.
The Power of Coaching and Leadership Development
Fran’s passion for coaching stems from her own transformative experiences. She highlights the importance of asking probing questions, fostering self-reflection, and empowering clients to discover their own solutions. As Fran emphasizes, the role of a coach is to guide, not to dictate, creating a safe space for others to explore and grow.

In our discussion, Fran reflects on how coaching has enhanced her professional relationships and deepened her connection with friends and family. This underscores the broader impact of coaching—its ability to enrich lives beyond the workplace.
Harvest Cove Talent Partners: A Vision for Growth and Community
Fran recently took a bold step by launching her firm, Harvest Cove Talent Partners. Inspired by her commitment to growth and human connection, Harvest Cove aims to support leaders and teams in achieving their full potential. The firm’s name reflects Fran’s mission to create a “harvest” of blessings and opportunities, cultivating a space where vulnerability and authenticity thrive.
Leadership Rooted in Purpose
Fran Lawler’s journey from JMO to C-suite is a testament to the power of adaptability, purpose, and continuous growth. Her story reminds us that true leadership goes beyond achieving goals—it’s about fostering connection, empowering others, and staying grounded in one’s values.

Through her coaching work and the creation of Harvest Cove, Fran exemplifies how leaders can inspire transformation while staying true to their purpose. Fran's story is an inspiration for anyone navigating transitions or seeking greater meaning in their work.

Learn more about Fran’s journey and her insights on leadership and coaching by tuning into the full podcast episode.

Thank you for listening, and I hope you enjoy the podcast!

To stay connected, we encourage you to check out our website and YouTube Channel and follow us on LinkedIn.

If you want to learn more about your transition options, please get in touch with us.

You can also check out our Transition Guide on “3 Game-Changing Strategies for JMOs Making the Jump to Business” for additional transition tips.

To stay connected, I recommend subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following us on LinkedIn.

Joel
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9 months ago
44 minutes

PCS to Corporate America
Nov ’24 Career Conference Recap (E214)
Welcome back to another Post-Conference Recap. For the November 2024 Career Conference, we had three of our most recent alumni on a webcast to share their experiences about the Cameron-Brooks process and where they chose to launch their careers.

Aine Armstrong – LT, Navy Supply Officer

Maria Blom – CPT, Army Engineer Officer

Haadi Elsaawy – LT, Navy Surface Warfare Officer

They each offered great advice and perspective to other military officers who are preparing to transition. In this conversation, we cover many topics around some of the following questions:

November 2024 Conference Statistics
Economy Update
Developmental opportunities at the November 2025 Career Conference
Interview preparation tips and techniques
Did the opportunities at the Career Conference meet your salary expectations?
Why did you choose a partnership with Cameron-Brooks?
What were the conversations like with these Hiring Managers?
Study Groups
Tips to Ace the Interview!
And much more!

I think these Career Conference Recap webcasts are so valuable because they give those who have not been to a Career Conference a “behind-the-scenes” view of what it’s like. The transition can be hazy. It can be foggy, and in a sea of choices, it’s sometimes hard to know the right path to navigate in order to reach your end goal. This is what I like to call "Navigating between the buoys". For those nautical folks out there, this is navigating in restricted waters!

These Career Conference recap conversations help those planning to attend a future Conference have the confidence to continue preparing for transition success, and for those not in the Development and Preparation Program, hopefully their advice and experience serves you well as you prepare for your interviews!

If you are a JMO and looking for answers, we are here to help. Cameron-Brooks has over 5 decades of experience guiding military officers as they transverse the challenges of transition from the military to the business world. I am glad to meet with you one-on-one to help better define your marketability and explore options. You can also find more information about Cameron-Brooks on our website, YouTube and LinkedIn.

It all starts with a conversation.

Best of success,

Brock Dudley | bdudley@cameron-brooks.com | (210) 874-1495
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9 months ago

PCS to Corporate America
How Resilience and Hardiness Create Meaningful Work (E213)
Welcome to another episode of the PCS to Corporate America Podcast. This is a special episode for me. I recently completed my MA in Organizational Leadership at Gonzaga University. I significantly changed as a leader and person as a result of this program.

The Leadership and Hardiness class co-taught by Dr. Adrian Popa and Kelsey Solberg, which I took this past summer, particularly impacted me. Dr. Popa and Kelsey graciously allowed me to interview them for this podcast.

In a world of constant change and challenges, resilience, and hardiness are critical qualities for leaders navigating transitions. Dr. Popa, Kelsey, and I dive deep into these themes.

 

This episode is packed with insights for those transitioning from military service to civilian careers or simply seeking greater purpose in their work. Below are key highlights from this enlightening conversation.

 

Exploring the Foundations of Resilience

Dr. Popa opens the podcast with a personal reflection on his childhood in Eastern Europe under a communist government. He shares how witnessing resilience in his family and community shaped his understanding of hardiness. Dr. Popa explains that hardiness is more than mere toughness; it involves the ability to adapt, grow, and find meaning despite life’s challenges.

Kelsey adds her perspective on resilience, which was shaped by her journey from student to leadership educator. Through her work at Gonzaga University and co-teaching the Leadership and Hardiness course, Kelsey emphasizes curiosity and connection as pathways to resilience. She discusses the transformative power of engaging with the world and fostering growth, even in the face of obstacles.

Finding Meaning in Transitions

One of the podcast's most poignant moments came when I posed a common question faced by transitioning military leaders: “How do I find meaning in a career after leaving the service?” Dr. Popa and Kelsey reference Viktor Frankl’s Man’s Search for Meaning in their responses.

Dr. Popa explains that meaning is not found but created, often in the context of challenges. He emphasizes the importance of embracing agency and choice, even in moments of uncertainty. Kelsey adds that individuals coming from the military may already possess a unique ability to transcend themselves for a greater cause—an invaluable asset in any new role.

Practical Tools for Resilience and Growth

Together, we address the framework commitment, control, and challenge as a way to build hardiness. We encourage listeners to identify what they’re committed to, recognize their capacity to influence outcomes and view challenges as opportunities for growth. Dr. Popa reinforces this by sharing how these principles are operationalized during the mountain leadership immersions.

To learn more about commitment, control, and challenge, I encourage you to read Hardiness: Making Stress Work for You to Achieve Your Life Goals by Steven Stein and Paul Bartone.

Conclusion: Thriving Beyond the Uniform

This episode offers a roadmap for finding purpose and cultivating resilience in any stage of life. Dr. Popa and Kelsey remind us that the search for meaning is dynamic, evolving with each phase of our journey. Whether you’re transitioning careers, climbing mountains, or simply navigating life’s complexities, their insights provide guidance and inspiration.

Tune in to the full episode to explore how resilience and hardiness can help you thrive, no matter the challenge ahead.

Thank you for listening, and I hope you enjoy the podcast!

To stay connected, we encourage you to check out our website and YouTube Channel and follow us on LinkedIn.

If you want to learn more about your transition options,
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10 months ago

PCS to Corporate America
2024 Lessons and Looking Ahead to 2025 (E212)
Happy Holidays from the Cameron-Brooks Team!

In this podcast, Cameron-Brooks team members from our company's candidate and client sides share lessons from 2024 and what we look forward to in 2025. As usual, you will hear from Transition Coaches Brock Dudley and me (Joel Junker), as well as two new voices from our client side, Lauren Kordzik and Megan Miller. We will feature them more in our 2025 podcasts.

 

Below are some highlights from the podcast.
Learning and Preparation Extends Beyond the Transition
One of the key takeaways from the discussion is the importance of preparation—not just for the interviews but for the entire journey. We emphasize that understanding the business landscape is just as crucial as understanding your strengths and interests. Your path might have been clearly defined in the military, but in business, you need to proactively shape your career. This shift requires continuous learning and growth, and we provide practical tips to help you to do so.

These tips include:

Be curious and ask questions.
Have an attitude of humility to be open to feedback
Read books, attend courses and workshops, and listen to podcasts from various sources. You will hear how we apply lessons learned from parenting, biographies not related to business, and more.

Stay True to Yourself
We brought our authentic selves and experiences to the conversation during our dialogue. We also share how it is important to be true to yourself. While adapting to the business world is important, you don’t need to change who you are at your core. The discipline, integrity, and work ethic you’ve developed in the military are assets that will set you apart and help you thrive in your new role.
Inspiration
Our goal with the podcast was to inspire and empower you to take control of your career and prepare for the transition. We want to assure you that while the transition to a business career may seem daunting, it is absolutely achievable with the right mindset, preparation, and support. Their insights serve as a reminder that the skills and values you bring from your military service are relevant and provide a strong foundation for a successful business career.

Thank you for listening to our , and I hope you enjoy the podcast!

To stay connected, we encourage you to check out our website and YouTube Channel and follow us on LinkedIn.

If you want to learn more about your transition options, please get in touch with us.

You can also check out our Transition Guide on “3 Game-Changing Strategies for JMOs Making the Jump to Business” for additional transition tips.

To stay connected, I recommend subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following us on LinkedIn.

Joel
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10 months ago

PCS to Corporate America
We are excited to launch the Cameron-Brooks Podcast. For almost 50 years, the Cameron-Brooks Team has partnered with high performing military officers assisting them with transitioning to a successful business career. We have a continuing relationship with a vast majority of our Alumni. Some of our successful Alumni include the CFO of Twitter, Chief Marketing Officer of Tyson Foods, COO of Hewlett Packard Enterprise, COO of RJ Reynolds, VP of Supply Chain at a Fortune 500 Medical Device Company, Executive Vice President of Logistics for Walmart Stores, Inc. to name just a few. The purpose of the Cameron-Brooks podcast is to draw best practices, lessons learned and career advice from our Alumni and other business partners to assist others in reaching their potential and goals. This podcast will help anyone who has a desire to grow both personally and professionally.

While the podcast will mostly be episodes of conversations with Cameron-Brooks Alumni, it will also include book reviews, career advice, interview tips and leadership lessons from Cameron-Brooks Team Members.