Drawing on a distinguished career that includes retirement from the U.S. Army in 2015, Ken Cates brings a practical and results-oriented approach to his work as a speaker and consultant. As CEO of a nonprofit construction organization, he spearheaded remarkable growth, increasing revenue by over 1,400% within his first five years. His expertise extends to assisting two national veteran-owned businesses with their strategic nationwide expansion and guiding a startup nonprofit construction organization to surpass its first-year net income projection by over $250,000 within its initial four months. Leading through significant growth in diverse environments has provided Ken with invaluable insights into team dynamics, operational success, and navigating complex challenges – principles he now shares with forward-thinking leaders and veterans.

Ken is an engaging communicator with a passion for mentoring military veterans transitioning to civilian life. His ability to connect with and guide others is further honed by his experience as a husband and father to seven daughters, making him a skilled negotiator both professionally and personally.

He now helps Major Talent in their Strategic Growth and Operations, helping veterans translate their military experience into skills-based profiles, building resumes, and rehearsing for their interviews.

Recognized multiple times by City, State, and U.S. Leaders, National Organizations, and news media, Ken’s goal is to empower individuals to break free from the status quo and embrace new possibilities. He aims to impact leaders hungry for transformation, offering tactical strategies and actionable insights drawn from his real-world experience.