From Soldier to Mentor: My Journey
A story of leadership forged in combat, refined through personal failure, and dedicated to building leaders worth following.
Raw and Uncut
Mike Cavezza is a retired U.S. Army Command Sergeant Major, keynote speaker, and leadership consultant who helps organizations build high trust, and high performing cultures. During his 24 year military career, Mike served in every enlisted leadership role from Team Leader to Command Sergeant Major, led teams through combat deployments, earned multiple Bronze Stars, and was recognized as the U.S. Army Drill Sergeant of the Year.
After learning firsthand that leadership built only on pressure and authority can damage people and culture, Mike developed a new model rooted in trust, accountability, communication, and resilience.
Today, through Infectious Leadership, Mike works with companies, executives, and teams to strengthen culture, improve communication, and develop leaders people want to follow. His presentations are authentic, practical, high energy, and designed to create lasting impact.
My "Why"
True leadership is not measured only by professional success, it is measured by the legacy you build at home, the trust you earn, and the lives you impact most. My wife and our three sons are the foundation of my purpose and the daily reminder that the most important team any leader will ever serve is their family. That belief shapes everything I teach; Leadership built on presence, character, accountability, and connection. There’s a line for the word I instead of the letter.
"So, what is my story?"
"Why do you need to get your story out there? Because I've told my story several times to several people that did not know who I was, and the reactions from both of us... would be remembered. It would be something."
My Qualifications
A career dedicated to service, leadership, and continuous learning.
Leadership Experience
24 years of leadership experience in the U.S. Army, serving in every enlisted leadership role from Team Leader to Command Sergeant Major. Led high performing teams in complex, high pressure environments worldwide.
Education & Credentials
- Master's Degree in Organizational Leadership
- U.S. Army Sergeants Major Academy
- Senior Enlisted Joint Professional Military Education
- Master Resilience Trainer Certified
Honors & Recognition
- U.S. Army Drill Sergeant of the Year
- Multiple Bronze Star Medal Recipient
- Meritorious Service Medal
- Combat Action Badge
- Founder of Infectious Leadership
Let's Start the Conversation
Leadership that is FELT, not heard!
Infectious Leadership
Whether you're looking to book a keynote, schedule a leadership workshop, explore consulting services, or learn how Mike Cavezza can support your organization, we'd love to connect.
Book Mike