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BY Brock Dudley

June 2025 Career Conference Recap

June 2025 Career Conference Recap | Military to Business Career Transition

Another Career Conference is in the books, and I’m excited to share the June 2025 Career Conference recap with you!  Once again, I’m energized by the sharp, talented, and agile leaders we had the privilege of working with. I’m equally impressed by the companies and industry leaders who continue to show up, committed to finding the right leaders for their organizations.

A heartfelt thank you to every Junior Military Officer (JMO) who placed their trust in us, and to our client companies who remain dedicated to investing in future leadership.

The Economy: Competitive, but Full of Opportunity

It feels like this environment has become the new normal. Interest rates are still high, capital spending is cautious, and the stock market continues to fluctuate. Global and political unrest remain ongoing, and tariff impacts are uncertain. These headlines are front and center every morning in the Wall Street Journal and on CNBC. At times, the outlook can seem gloomy.

Here’s my encouragement to all JMOs: The labor market is still strong. That is the key indicator to focus on. Companies are actively hiring, and the unemployment rate has remained steady. While you can’t perfectly time the economy, you can absolutely have a winning strategy to transition successfully into leadership roles.

One message from our client companies continues to stand out. They need leaders who are ready to take on multiple challenges and wear many hats. I often refer to this as the “Genius of the AND”. Companies want someone who can lead teams, drive results, AND adapt quickly.

JMOs bring this unique blend of talent. Their backgrounds may be non-traditional in the business world, but their leadership experience and potential make them strong candidates for succession planning and long-term growth.

Despite the external challenges, our clients remain motivated to fill critical openings. What’s changed is the level of expectation. The bar is higher. Companies want more, and that’s exactly why the right preparation matters.

Why Strategy and Preparation Matter

For JMOs moving from the military into the business world, having a thoughtful strategy is essential. Preparation and guidance from an experienced partner can dramatically improve your chances of reaching your career goals.

The Numbers

Over four and a half days, 445 interviews took place between JMOs and hiring managers. These were real interviews for real openings, not practice runs.

• Average interviews per candidate: 11

• Pursuit rate: 62%

What does that mean? Sixty-two percent of all interviews moved to the next stage in the hiring process. While that doesn’t guarantee an offer, it shows a strong level of interest and opens the door to follow-up conversations.

From Interviews to Offers: The Follow-up Process

Our candidates bypass online applications, automated systems, and screening tools. They meet directly with hiring managers and decision-makers.

Now that the conference is complete, we’ve entered the follow-up phase. This stage includes on-site visits, deeper conversations, and the final steps that lead to offers. Companies are eager to move quickly, and Cameron-Brooks remains closely involved to support both candidates and clients.

This week, follow-up interviews are happening nationwide both in person and virtually. This is where connections deepen, insights grow, and both sides evaluate fit. JMOs explore which roles align best with their values, interests, and long-term goals.

Leading this stage is our CEO, Chuck Alvarez, who works directly with both sides to ensure alignment. He’s supported by our incredible follow-up team: Lauren Kordzik, Megan Druen-Miller, Candy Belcik, Mary Lou White, and Michelle Spisak. And of course, my mentor and friend, Joel Junker, continues to be a steady and insightful presence throughout.

Closing Thoughts

At Cameron-Brooks, we are not simply helping people find jobs. We are helping JMOs pursue meaningful, purpose-driven careers.

We work to:

• See each candidate for who they are and who they can become.

• Speak truth with compassion.

• Guide individuals toward success while honoring their values and goals.

This work is more than a process. It’s a calling. For over 50 years, we’ve helped JMOs make successful transitions, backed by a team with more than 200 years of combined experience.

Markets shift, headwinds come and go, but our mission stays the same. We are here to help JMOs transform their lives and careers.

What’s Next?

To those currently in follow-up: stay focused and stay curious. You’re building the bridge to your next chapter.

To those considering a transition: Let’s start the conversation. We’re ready when you are.

Brock Dudley
Associate Principal, Cameron-Brooks

(210) 874-1495