Throw 'em into boot, they either get ground down to follow orders or beat/shamed out. They're terribly good at psychological manipulation.

As far as intelligence, they know how to play the room now. They'll put you wherever you're best. They have a hell of a lot of tech now and aren't as keen on putting contractors in harms way. If you're better off as a grunt, you're a grunt. If you're skilled labor, they'll find a way to make you useful.

Not to say you should or shouldn't join. Skilled labor makes a hell of a lot more money other places.