DoD hosts annual conference to boost ties with private sector

The Department of Defense (DoD) recently hosted the Joint Civilian Orientation Conference (JCOC), introducing 40 prominent business, community and academic leaders to Pentagon operations, during which they can engage with service members.
 
“I know you're all busy, and you could be doing something else with your August,” Defense Secretary Ash Carter said in a video message, as he was unable to attend the conference in person. “Instead, you've chosen to learn more about us and our mission to protect the American people. You'll see why I'm so proud to lead the finest fighting force the world has ever known.”
 
The weeklong conference has run most years since 1948 and allows the DoD to build bridges with the private sector. Attendees learned about the DoD in the context of a corporation, following a bifurcated structure in which one side prepares joint forces and the other side employs joint forces at the command of the president. Conference participants toured military facilities throughout the southeast and met service members and DoD civilian workers.
 
“I hope you'll take the opportunity to exchange ideas with them and with each other about our shared mission of national defense,” Carter said. “I know you'll learn a few things from our people, but hopefully, we'll learn from you as well. And when you're back, please share your feedback with me and my staff.”