The U.S. Army Participates in DECA’s 2012 International Career Development Conference

May 11, 2012

The U.S. Army was a sponsor at DECA’s International Career Development Conference, which took place from April 28 – May 1 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. The Army has been a proud sponsor of DECA’s annual Conference for over 15 years. This past January, the Army and DECA formalized their relationship by signing a joint Memorandum of Understanding at the 2012 All-American Bowl in San Antonio, Texas. Coming off the momentum of that signing, this conference provided the Army ample opportunity to promote the partnership and help raise awareness of its shared mission and education goals.

The Army’s sponsorship included several activities over the span of the conference. The Army provided branded duffel bags for the 2nd annual 5K run/walk, supporting the Muscular Dystrophy Association and DECA’s scholarship fund. Leaders from Army Reserve, Army Accessions Support Brigade, Army Recruiting Command and Army Cadet Command took part in the executive mentoring program, which matched approximately DECA students with business leaders to share information about their personal career paths. In addition, Army representatives participated in the competitive events judging sessions, which gave them the opportunity to provide feedback on student presentations such as business plans, public relations projects, sales presentations and community service projects.

The U.S. Army Strength in Action Zone was a popular destination for DECA students and teachers during the conference. While Army education representatives spoke with students about career and education opportunities in the Army, Army recruiters were challenging students to show how they were “Army Strong” at a pull-up bar. There was also a well-attended gaming kiosk and an interactive screen that educated students and teachers on the opportunities in the Army.

The conference ended with DECA’s Leadership Luncheon where Colonel Gregory Lautner, 6th Recruiting Brigade Commander gave a keynote address about the shared commitment that the U.S. Army and DECA have in developing the potential of young people to an audience of 120 attendees. This luncheon also honored the successes of various DECA chapter advisors over the past year. Also in attendance were DECA Board of Advisors as well as select members of DECA’s student national officers.

To view conference photos, you can visit GoArmy’s Flickr site. In addition, videos of our leadership will be posted on the U.S. Army channel on www.SchoolTube.com.