From CO to CEO

“It’s impossible to transition out of the military without a good guide. From CO to CEO lays out key insights and hard-earned wisdom from a senior corporate leader who has been there and done that. It is a testament of success—like a mini-MBA, a true triumph!”  

“From CO to CEO is a reality-based, practical guide that should be required reading for any military member transitioning into the civilian workforce. Bill gives a first-hand account of what works and what doesn't work outside of the military, and he helps clear the fog of uncertainty by providing actionable advice that is not based in theory.” 

“From CO to CEO is the transition book military members need before their actual transition occurs. It is the manual for those considering making the change to industry. Just reading the book and gaining an understanding of both military and industry will make anyone who picks it up more aware and ultimately more successful.”

 

“An insightful primer of incalculable value for every transitioning officer regardless of branch of service; full of useful tips and counterintuitive lessons based on real life experiences from one who successfully cracked the code.” 

“Bill Toti’s book is a testament to understanding the interrelationship between military and industry, and is a must-read for those thinking of joining, and just as important for those who are already part of, this business of defense of the United States.”

"William (Bill) Toti’s new book, From CO to CEO, was written for me. Not literally, of course, but it came as I began my military transition. Bill’s book highlights several critical pitfalls in making the transition, including an excellent translation of work environments, types of jobs, and how they relate to military experience. His insight into headhunters, corporate recruiters, and how we get hired through our networks was also crucial in helping me shape the search for my next career.
Listening to the audiobook during my morning commute, Bill’s use of personal stories provides a great backdrop to the knowledge and experience he shares. Being told in his own voice, the color of his experiences adds to the richness and authenticity of his story. His passion for helping the future transitioning military comes through in his stories, from meeting the Kindly Old Gentleman (Admiral Rickover, founder of the U.S. Nuclear Navy) to his interaction with business associates, civilian government employees, and Sailors still in uniform. Reading (or listening) to Bill’s book will undoubtedly help other transitioning military members avoid the many hazards in the business world.
From CO to CEO also has some great messages for those still on active duty and federal civil service employees. Bill talks about the mistaken view of all contractors as profiteers at the government expense, the wrong assumption of their pay rates, and articulates how 99.999% of those in the industry (just like their uniform counterparts) are great Americans trying to do the best job for the nation. I fell into this trap until very recently in my career. The clarity of his explanation of the perception and the more objective reality of the people involved is a great eye-opener. The Department of Defense would be well served by many more people understanding that message, both in uniform and by government civilians.  Bill, thanks for a great book. I am passing it on to several of my friends."

"This is the best coaching advice for those transitioning from military service to a civilian career. I wish I had this book when I retired. Many of us who have "been there", in both worlds, can directly relate and agree with the stories, experiences, and outcomes. Those about to transition should keep it readily available as a quick reference guide, as their new careers progress. WWBTD - What Would Bill Toti Do? 

I had similar experiences as Bill, as a US Navy officer, two tours at the Pentagon, in one of which I served under Bill's leadership. We were both there on 9/11/2001 - a day that changed all of us in many profound ways. His narrative and recommendations are spot-on. A MUST HAVE.”