The Military is a Great Career

The military is a great career. The benefits, the retirement, the variety of jobs, the training is exceptional, especially for a recent college graduate.

However, about two years ago, my wife and I began having serious discussions about my professional future. I'd just PCSd to Nellis AFB, NV, and knew that I'd likely complete my service commitment while stationed here. The fundamental question became, "Do I PCS again and bring myself near that halfway-to-retirement point, or do I get out and do something else?"

Fortuitously, a couple days after having this discussion, we ran into a colleague, and got to talking. He mentioned that he was getting out of the Air Force, so I asked him what he was doing. He said he'd gotten on with a military recruiter, and he raved about the types of jobs he was going to have the opportunity to see. I'd already gotten emails from the Lucas Group, so I asked him what recruiter. He said it was Cameron-Brooks. I'd never heard of them, so he explained that they only worked with junior military officers, and that they were very selective.

That very day, I went to the website and submitted my application, and signed up for an information session taking place the next week in San Diego. At the session, I learned about the different types of careers available, the state of the economy, and many other things that I didn't know. The next day, I interviewed with Scott, the recruiter, and was accepted to the program. I was extremely proud of this accomplishment, since they only accept about 12 percent to 14 percent of who they interview.

From that point on, I received exceptional support. They provided me with study materials, lists of recommended reading, exercises, and numerous other resources to help me get ready for my transition. Within months, my knowledge of corporate America increased by leaps and bounds. About two months before my scheduled date of separation, I attended a Career Conference, which is the culmination of the entire program. Based upon my career aspirations, my skills, educational background and other factors, Cameron-Brooks matched me up with several job interviews with top companies. At the end of the weekend, I received multiple opportunities for follow-up interviews, which eventually resulted in my accepting a generous offer for a position in Chicago with one of the largest medical services/pharmaceutical/device companies in the world.

I can only say that my experience with Cameron-Brooks enabled me to see outstanding opportunities that matched my skill set and desires with companies' needs. I learned how valuable that good, focused preparation is before transitioning to the civilian world. I also found out how critical it is to have a reputable recruiting firm in place to support me (unless of course, you're lucky and have a family business or some other type of link to a good job). Cameron-Brooks exceeded all expectations in this regard, through all steps of the process. I encourage you to seek out a good recruiter to aid you in your job search, and if you're an officer, seriously consider Cameron-Brooks. I guarantee it will be the best step you can make in your post-military career.

(Submitted by Dan Moberly)