ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md. - After over three decades of distinguished service, Command Sgt. Maj. Michael R. Conaty, the 19th Command Sergeant Major of the U.S. Army Communications-Electronics Command, is retiring and is leaving a powerful legacy of leadership, mentorship, and service to Soldiers.
Raised in Seaford, New York, Conaty entered service in October 1991 as a Signal Support Systems Specialist (31U).
Nearly 31 years later, Conaty assumed responsibility on August 2, 2022 and oversaw 9,000 CECOM personnel supporting critical communications, cyber, and medical readiness and sustainment operations across the globe. Throughout his tenure, he was deeply committed to Soldier development, fostering teamwork, and building strong relationships within the Army and with the surrounding communities.
From the moment he stepped into his role at CECOM, Conaty's mission was clear: "Take care of people."
For Conaty, leadership is about far more than meeting mission objectives. It is about the well-being of Soldiers, promoting teamwork, and cultivating an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered.
Key Priorities
Conaty's leadership philosophy is rooted in recognizing and elevating those who often go unrecognized. A particular point of focus for him was the role of non-commissioned officers.
"We don’t see it enough at the broader CECOM level, but NCOs are the backbone of the Army team," Conaty emphasized.
Under his leadership, CECOM made significant strides in enhancing the professional development of Soldiers and NCOs, ensuring they had the training, proper living conditions, and opportunities to succeed in a rapidly changing world.
"It's about finding ways to amplify the efforts of others and working together to accomplish the mission," shared Conaty.
Among the most rewarding experiences was the Best Warrior Competition, where CECOM Soldiers competed at the highest level.
"Watching our Soldiers compete at the Army level was a highlight of my time at CECOM," he said.
Career Preparation and Valuable Experiences
Conaty’s path to becoming the senior enlisted advisor at CECOM was shaped by the diverse assignments he held throughout his career.
A particularly formative experience was his time at U.S. Army Forces Command where he worked closely with CECOM as a customer.
"Understanding CECOM from the customer’s side gave me a unique perspective that I’ve been able to use in my role as CECOM Command Sergeant Major," he said.
His ability to draw on a wide range of experiences and the insights he gained from traveling to CECOM operations worldwide—whether in Kuwait, Korea, or Europe—further shaped his leadership style and approach.
Throughout his career, Conaty was guided by a commitment to transparency and a deep respect for mentorship. He emphasized the importance of making decisions based on collaboration and expert advice.
"As a senior enlisted advisor, it’s important to provide candid perspectives, especially when making tough decisions,” he said. Gathering information and leaning on experts is essential in ensuring the right solutions are implemented."
Facing Future Challenges
Looking ahead, Conaty recognizes the significant challenges the Army faces in an era of rapid technological advancements.
"We can integrate new technologies quickly, but how do we train Soldiers at that speed, and how do we adjust doctrine and training to accommodate rapid changes?" he said.
For CECOM, the focus on evolving technology and ensuring Soldiers are prepared to face new threats will be a crucial part of the Army’s future. Conaty remains optimistic and confident that the Army's long-term plans, aligned with senior leadership priorities, will keep the force on track to meet future needs.
Closing Thoughts on CECOM and the Army
Reflecting on his time as Command Sergeant Major, Conaty expressed immense pride in the work of the CECOM team.
"I wish every employee could see the impact of solving Soldiers' problems," he said. “When you can sit down with a Soldier or leader, and actually solve their problems, that’s impactful and powerful.”
He also acknowledged the importance of the command’s partnerships with local communities, noting that CECOM's unique level of engagement has been one of the most rewarding aspects of his time in command.
Conaty’s leadership, dedication, and unwavering commitment to his Soldiers and the Army has left an indelible mark. As he moves into the next phase of his life, his influence on CECOM and the U.S. Army will continue to resonate, a testament to the lasting impact of his service.
What’s Next: A New Chapter
As Conaty prepares to retire, he looks forward to spending more time with his family. However, he is not done serving.
“I’m looking forward to spending more time with family, taking time for us and taking a break,” he shared. “I’m also exploring opportunities to remain engaged with the military community.”
CECOM will host a change of responsibility on February 5, 2025, in the Myer Auditorium to bid farewell to Command Sgt. Maj. Michael R. Conaty and welcome Command Sgt. Maj. Jay A. High. CSM Conaty's Retirement Ceremony will commence immediately following the Change of Responsibility.
You can view the ceremony on MS Teams at: https://usg01.safelinks.protection.office365.us/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fdod.teams.microsoft.us%2Fl%2Fmeetup-join%2F19%253adod%253ameeting_bf9dc6ace0ee4e2fa6e0c1ef6ae9417d%2540thread.v2%2F0%3Fcontext%3D%257b%2522Tid%2522%253a%2522fae6d70f-954b-4811-92b6-0530d6f84c43%2522%252c%2522Oid%2522%253a%25225367987d-e4d5-4dc5-b5b6-6b7ef39f5fbc%2522%252c%2522IsBroadcastMeeting%2522%253atrue%257d&data=05%7C02%7Crebecca.a.kidd4.civ%40army.mil%7Ccf41e9f61bda44f42f0108dd449485da%7Cfae6d70f954b481192b60530d6f84c43%7C0%7C0%7C638742126865637230%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=nw%2FSgKzy%2FZ1Tpo%2Bhsc9JtlCH16PeI7Li7scpCyHk9pQ%3D&reserved=0
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