My First Time as an FBLA Judge: A Full-Circle Moment with the Next Generation of Future Business Leaders
On March 8–9, 2026, I had the opportunity to step into a role I had never held before, serving as a judge for the Future Business Leaders of America 2026 State Leadership Conference in Atlantic City. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect, but I left inspired, energized, and with a confirmed optimism about the future of business leadership among New Jersey’s young professionals.
Walking In with Curiosity (and a Little Nerves)
As the Marketing Manager for Emerson Recruiting Group, I don’t work directly with candidates the way our awesome recruiters do, so judging a competitive student event felt a little outside my comfort zone.
The students were evaluated on technical knowledge, communication, professionalism, critical thinking, their ability to apply business concepts to real-world scenarios, and to answer our questions.
I had the opportunity to judge the Visual Design and role-play Customer Service competitions. Walking through the hallways and large conference rooms, I saw groups of students in business attire practicing, reviewing notes, and supporting one another. As a parent of two young professionals myself, I truly enjoyed being around students at this stage and seeing their potential take shape.
This Experience Was Also Personal for Me
I might be aging myself, but here goes!
As a former Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA) competitor and a marketing event winner as a high school junior in 1985, I vividly remember what it felt like to prepare, compete, and put yourself “out there” in front of judges. Sitting on the other side of the table decades later felt like a true full-circle moment.
What stood out immediately was the level of preparation and confidence these students brought into the room. It was a powerful reminder that leadership potential often shows up early when students are given the right guidance and opportunities. A major shout-out to the teachers and advisors who help prepare these students for experiences like this!
Final Reflections
At Emerson Recruiting Group, our core purpose is “helping others become more successful”, and opportunities like this just reinforce how important it is to support talent at EVERY stage of the journey. I’m thankful to our president, Bill Emerson, for his immediate support and encouragement when I discussed volunteering for this opportunity.
I walked away truly inspired. If you’re interested in volunteering, FBLA needs hundreds of judges to support these incredible students. Click here for more information.
Recruiting to Culture
Emerson Recruiting Group is a third generation, family owned, mission-driven recruiting and staffing agency with close to 60 years experience helping companies hire talent matching their core values and culture. They partner closely with organizations to understand their mission and company needs, delivering thoughtful, relationship driven hiring solutions with a 94% retention rate!
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