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Hi everyone, my name is Israel Montelongo, but most people call me Izzy. I was originally from Illinois and moved to Colorado about eight years ago after serving in the Marine Corps. Currently, I work as a defense contractor for the Navy, specializing in uncrewed surface vessels, a role that combines my military background with my passion for being on the water. In my free time, I enjoy heading up to the mountains to hike, camp, and explore new places with my wife Jessica and our dog Ace. I also love trying out new foods and discovering unique local spots to eat.

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My wife Jessica Ace and I on our trip to Idaho.

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I chose quotation three because it highlights the growing importance of technology in our daily lives and careers. In today’s world, especially after the pandemic, many tasks that used to require in-person visits, like renewing your vehicle registration or paying your mortgage, can now be done online through apps. This shows how essential digital fluency has become. If we fail to adapt to new technologies, we risk falling behind. Even the way we search for jobs has changed, with platforms like LinkedIn allowing recruiters to reach out directly to potential candidates. Being comfortable with technology isn’t just helpful anymore; it’s necessary for success in almost every field.

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 digital fluency is not an option but a requirement.

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 digital fluency is not an option but a requirement.

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I agree with the statement that digital fluency is not an option but a requirement. As technology becomes more integrated into every part of life, work, education, communication, and even daily tasks like banking, we have no choice but to adapt. The world is moving quickly, and digital tools are constantly changing. If we don’t evolve and learn how to use these tools, we risk falling behind the power curve, both professionally and socially. It's no longer enough to rely on traditional methods; being digitally fluent means staying competitive in the job market and keeping up with the pace of modern life. In this digital age, those who can’t keep up with technology will struggle to succeed.

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I chose to pursue a degree in Homeland Security and Emergency Management because of my background working in and with the Department of Defense. This field has always interested me, especially the planning and preparation involved in responding to natural disasters, terrorist attacks, or other large-scale emergencies. I’ve always been drawn to analyzing world events and thinking through how we can defend ourselves against or prepare for them. It’s something I naturally enjoy doing. With this degree, I hope to advance in my current role and eventually become a program manager for a counter-drone program. This path allows me to combine my experience, interests, and career goals in a meaningful way.