Pros
1) A starting point in major companies: I wouldn't have been able to make the transition from my old field to the job I currently do. 2) Supportive staff: All it takes is just reaching out. You can't get help if you don't ask for it. The account managers at the academy were generally really approachable and helpful when I finished my training. They helped so much when it came to drafting e-mails for potential placements and general pointers. 3) Clear lines of help presented: The various contacts points perform the function that they've been specified for. This does make it easier to know where to get help from. 4) Peer Network: When on site the peer network becomes a major asset. Consultants often come together based on mutual experiences of training and offer invaluable insight in achieve successful outcomes on projects while on site. (I'd recommend any FDMer reading this to make sure they reach out to other consultants on site).
Cons
Poor management of personnel during transitions (changing placements, relocation). It really isn't enough to have them sit through presentations because they might not know what to expect and can't really ask the questions that make a difference during these presentations. Allocating consultants to placements: It's a little frustrating when directed to interview for a role you didn't sign up for (e.g PMO to Product Support). I think the best way around it is to ask trainees and consultants to indicate role types they would be interested in taking on. That may help the account managers avoid consultants who are not interested in a particular type of role.