Latest news with #MikeGarcia
Fox News
01-07-2025
- Politics
- Fox News
The future of air combat: How long will the US military still need pilots?
As sixth-generation fighter programs ramp up, military insiders are divided over whether future warplanes need pilots at all. The Pentagon is pouring billions into next-generation aircraft, pushing the boundaries of stealth and speed. But as America eyes a future of air dominance, one question looms large: Should Americans still be risking their lives in the cockpit? Autonomous drones backed by AI are progressing faster than many expected, and that has some defense leaders rethinking the role of the pilot. Some are of the mindset that the F-35 should be the last manned aircraft. Many pilots, however, do not agree. "It's highly controversial," one former senior defense official told Fox News Digital. "There's a whole cohort of people who think we should not be thinking about building a manned fighter for the last half of this century." "Inside the Air Force, there are hard-line air dominance people. They're on cloud nine this week, after what the B-2s did in Iran… but in my mind, I say, why would we put men in that loop? Why wouldn't we fly those things in 2050 unmanned, completely?" Air Force pilots flew B-2 bombers on a 36-hour round trip to strike three Iranian nuclear facilities last weekend. Trump said the strikes left Iran's nuclear sites "obliterated like nobody's ever seen before." He praised the "brave" pilots who crewed the planes as "the best shots in the world." But the most rapid technological advancements in U.S. history have left defense officials stumped about how to plan for the future. "To date, the services are just scratching the surface on what manned versus unmanned TACAIR (tactical air) of the future might look like," the former official went on. "If AI technologies continue to evolve in five years, right when you're just in the infancy of beginning to make a decision about what F-47 would be, well, you're on exactly the wrong path." Others insist unmanned systems still lack the decision-making reliability and network resilience needed for high-stakes combat. "It's critically important that President Trump proceeded with the manned platform for the Air Force – obviously, F-47 being the solution," said former Rep. Mike Garcia, R-Calif., a former F/A 18 naval aviator. "This academic debate about unmanned-only platforms is aspirational – but the networks just aren't there yet. You need low latency, high-bandwidth, distributed networks with critical nodes, and we don't have that." But, he urged Boeing to move quickly. "Boeing needs to execute. They can't afford to have this turn into a tanker program. This is absolutely critical to get done correctly." With the famously lengthy acquisition timelines of the Pentagon, some worry sixth-generation aircraft won't make it to the battlefield before their autonomous counterparts match them in capability, with less risk to humans. Garcia emphasized that aircrews play a unique role in orchestrating combat operations. "You still need a quarterback in the air to manage unmanned aircraft and the situational awareness feeding back into the entire advanced battle management system," he said. At the core of this debate is America's ability to project power while preparing for near-peer conflict. Yet financial limitations are shaping what's possible. "We've ended up in a situation where the Air Force today is the oldest and the smallest and the least ready it's ever been in its entire history," said retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. David Deptula, dean of the Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies. Deptula told Fox News Digital the "only" debate about the F-47 was about money, because of "arbitrary budgets that aren't tied in any way, shape or form to our national defense strategy." Those who think drones will be ready to take the job of pilots anytime soon believe in "science fiction," he said. "It may be at some point in the future, but we're just not there yet." Others warn that both the Air Force and Navy may be taking different bets on how unmanned technology will factor into the need for their prized fighter jets. "To date, the services are just scratching the surface on what manned versus unmanned tactical air might look like," another former defense official said. "The Air Force wants to rush F-47 to IOC to beat unmanned advocates to the trough," referring to initial operational capacity (IOC). "The Navy seems to be taking a more measured path to F/A-XX than they were a couple of years ago. Perhaps part of that is to see where the unmanned technology goes."
Business Wire
29-04-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
City of McAllen Engages Apps Associates to Enhance Constituent Service and Modernize ERP Systems
MCALLEN, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The City of McAllen has engaged Apps Associates, a premier enterprise applications and technology advisor, to lead a major initiative to modernize its Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems and elevate the level of service it delivers to constituents. In partnership with DLT Solutions, LLC ('DLT'), a TD SYNNEX company, the project combines full suite Oracle Cloud implementation with Change Management expertise to enhance internal operations and ensure McAllen's service excellence continues to scale with future community needs. 'We're proud to help the City of McAllen modernize operations and enhance constituent services with Oracle Cloud.' – Mike Garcia, Apps Associates The City of McAllen will deploy the full Oracle Cloud suite—including Financials, Supply Chain Management (SCM), Human Capital Management (HCM), Enterprise Performance Management (EPM), Projects, and Grants Management—alongside a focused Change Management strategy to ensure smooth adoption and long-term success. The modernization reflects McAllen's continued investment in innovation, transparency, and operational excellence — reinforcing the city's ability to serve its community with agility and confidence. The City of McAllen selected Apps Associates based on the company's proven Oracle expertise, collaborative approach, and strong Change Management capabilities. The city cited responsiveness, quality of resources, and a flexible delivery model as key decision factors. Apps Associates is subcontracting under DLT to deliver the Oracle Cloud solution, with project completion expected in early 2026. 'We're proud to support the City of McAllen on this transformative initiative, in partnership with DLT,' said Mike Garcia, Vice President of Advisory Services at Apps Associates. 'Our team brings the full spectrum of advisory services, Oracle delivery expertise, and Change Management support to help ensure the city achieves real, lasting results.' The collaboration between Apps Associates and DLT ensures a comprehensive approach to delivering Oracle Cloud solutions. 'We are pleased to partner with Apps Associates and the City of McAllen to implement Oracle Cloud solutions that will not only modernize operations but also enhance the overall experience for constituents,' said Kirk Fisher, Vice President, Sales at DLT. 'The City of McAllen is excited to announce a new opportunity for Apps Associates to be a part of our digital transformation journey,' said Robert Acosta, Information Technology Director at City of McAllen. 'We're implementing Oracle Cloud solutions to modernize and streamline our operations—and with the assistance of DLT, we looked for an experienced partner with a proven track record in configuring, deploying, and supporting Oracle's cloud technologies for local government, and we feel we found that partner in Apps Associates.' This win represents a significant milestone for Apps Associates as it expands deeper into the public sector and demonstrates growing momentum for Oracle Cloud solutions in the Rio Grande Valley region. About Apps Associates Apps Associates is a premier enterprise applications and technology advisor, counseling and executing across every stage of the enterprise transformation journey—not just the destination. For more than two decades, Apps Associates has closely collaborated with decision makers across nearly every industry, offering end-to-end integration, modernization, and cloud migration services. By helping to break down the silos within today's most complex business challenges, Apps Associates is unlocking solutions and efficiencies that scale into future opportunities. About the City of McAllen Located in the Rio Grande Valley at the southern tip of Texas, the City of McAllen serves approximately 150,000 residents. The city is known for its vibrant culture, strong community values, and commitment to delivering efficient, responsive services to improve the quality of life for all residents. About DLT Solutions DLT Solutions, LLC is a wholly owned subsidiary of TD SYNNEX, a leading global distributor and solutions aggregator. DLT is the premier government solutions aggregator that specializes in understanding the IT needs of the federal, state, local and education markets. We help simplify the process for software vendors, systems integrators and value-added resellers doing business in the public sector. Leveraging an extensive array of public sector contract vehicles, a deep roster of market experts and dedicated channel and enablement services, DLT provides government agencies and channel partners with the means to transform technology to achieve mission success – all through a secure supply chain. For more information, please visit
Yahoo
29-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
City of McAllen Engages Apps Associates to Enhance Constituent Service and Modernize ERP Systems
MCALLEN, Texas, April 29, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The City of McAllen has engaged Apps Associates, a premier enterprise applications and technology advisor, to lead a major initiative to modernize its Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems and elevate the level of service it delivers to constituents. In partnership with DLT Solutions, LLC ("DLT"), a TD SYNNEX company, the project combines full suite Oracle Cloud implementation with Change Management expertise to enhance internal operations and ensure McAllen's service excellence continues to scale with future community needs. The City of McAllen will deploy the full Oracle Cloud suite—including Financials, Supply Chain Management (SCM), Human Capital Management (HCM), Enterprise Performance Management (EPM), Projects, and Grants Management—alongside a focused Change Management strategy to ensure smooth adoption and long-term success. The modernization reflects McAllen's continued investment in innovation, transparency, and operational excellence — reinforcing the city's ability to serve its community with agility and confidence. The City of McAllen selected Apps Associates based on the company's proven Oracle expertise, collaborative approach, and strong Change Management capabilities. The city cited responsiveness, quality of resources, and a flexible delivery model as key decision factors. Apps Associates is subcontracting under DLT to deliver the Oracle Cloud solution, with project completion expected in early 2026. "We're proud to support the City of McAllen on this transformative initiative, in partnership with DLT," said Mike Garcia, Vice President of Advisory Services at Apps Associates. "Our team brings the full spectrum of advisory services, Oracle delivery expertise, and Change Management support to help ensure the city achieves real, lasting results." The collaboration between Apps Associates and DLT ensures a comprehensive approach to delivering Oracle Cloud solutions. "We are pleased to partner with Apps Associates and the City of McAllen to implement Oracle Cloud solutions that will not only modernize operations but also enhance the overall experience for constituents," said Kirk Fisher, Vice President, Sales at DLT. "The City of McAllen is excited to announce a new opportunity for Apps Associates to be a part of our digital transformation journey," said Robert Acosta, Information Technology Director at City of McAllen. "We're implementing Oracle Cloud solutions to modernize and streamline our operations—and with the assistance of DLT, we looked for an experienced partner with a proven track record in configuring, deploying, and supporting Oracle's cloud technologies for local government, and we feel we found that partner in Apps Associates." This win represents a significant milestone for Apps Associates as it expands deeper into the public sector and demonstrates growing momentum for Oracle Cloud solutions in the Rio Grande Valley region. About Apps Associates Apps Associates is a premier enterprise applications and technology advisor, counseling and executing across every stage of the enterprise transformation journey—not just the destination. For more than two decades, Apps Associates has closely collaborated with decision makers across nearly every industry, offering end-to-end integration, modernization, and cloud migration services. By helping to break down the silos within today's most complex business challenges, Apps Associates is unlocking solutions and efficiencies that scale into future opportunities. About the City of McAllen Located in the Rio Grande Valley at the southern tip of Texas, the City of McAllen serves approximately 150,000 residents. The city is known for its vibrant culture, strong community values, and commitment to delivering efficient, responsive services to improve the quality of life for all residents. About DLT Solutions DLT Solutions, LLC is a wholly owned subsidiary of TD SYNNEX, a leading global distributor and solutions aggregator. DLT is the premier government solutions aggregator that specializes in understanding the IT needs of the federal, state, local and education markets. We help simplify the process for software vendors, systems integrators and value-added resellers doing business in the public sector. Leveraging an extensive array of public sector contract vehicles, a deep roster of market experts and dedicated channel and enablement services, DLT provides government agencies and channel partners with the means to transform technology to achieve mission success – all through a secure supply chain. For more information, please visit View source version on Contacts Media Contact:Carla RoddyDirector of MarketingApps Sign in to access your portfolio
National Post
29-04-2025
- Business
- National Post
City of McAllen Engages Apps Associates to Enhance Constituent Service and Modernize ERP Systems
Article content MCALLEN, Texas — The City of McAllen has engaged Apps Associates, a premier enterprise applications and technology advisor, to lead a major initiative to modernize its Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems and elevate the level of service it delivers to constituents. In partnership with DLT Solutions, LLC ('DLT'), a TD SYNNEX company, the project combines full suite Oracle Cloud implementation with Change Management expertise to enhance internal operations and ensure McAllen's service excellence continues to scale with future community needs. Article content Article content The City of McAllen will deploy the full Oracle Cloud suite—including Financials, Supply Chain Management (SCM), Human Capital Management (HCM), Enterprise Performance Management (EPM), Projects, and Grants Management—alongside a focused Change Management strategy to ensure smooth adoption and long-term success. The modernization reflects McAllen's continued investment in innovation, transparency, and operational excellence — reinforcing the city's ability to serve its community with agility and confidence. Article content The City of McAllen selected Apps Associates based on the company's proven Oracle expertise, collaborative approach, and strong Change Management capabilities. The city cited responsiveness, quality of resources, and a flexible delivery model as key decision factors. Article content Apps Associates is subcontracting under DLT to deliver the Oracle Cloud solution, with project completion expected in early 2026. Article content 'We're proud to support the City of McAllen on this transformative initiative, in partnership with DLT,' said Mike Garcia, Vice President of Advisory Services at Apps Associates. 'Our team brings the full spectrum of advisory services, Oracle delivery expertise, and Change Management support to help ensure the city achieves real, lasting results.' Article content The collaboration between Apps Associates and DLT ensures a comprehensive approach to delivering Oracle Cloud solutions. Article content 'We are pleased to partner with Apps Associates and the City of McAllen to implement Oracle Cloud solutions that will not only modernize operations but also enhance the overall experience for constituents,' said Kirk Fisher, Vice President, Sales at DLT. Article content 'The City of McAllen is excited to announce a new opportunity for Apps Associates to be a part of our digital transformation journey,' said Robert Acosta, Information Technology Director at City of McAllen. 'We're implementing Oracle Cloud solutions to modernize and streamline our operations—and with the assistance of DLT, we looked for an experienced partner with a proven track record in configuring, deploying, and supporting Oracle's cloud technologies for local government, and we feel we found that partner in Apps Associates.' Article content This win represents a significant milestone for Apps Associates as it expands deeper into the public sector and demonstrates growing momentum for Oracle Cloud solutions in the Rio Grande Valley region. Article content Apps Associates is a premier enterprise applications and technology advisor, counseling and executing across every stage of the enterprise transformation journey—not just the destination. For more than two decades, Apps Associates has closely collaborated with decision makers across nearly every industry, offering end-to-end integration, modernization, and cloud migration services. By helping to break down the silos within today's most complex business challenges, Apps Associates is unlocking solutions and efficiencies that scale into future opportunities. Article content Located in the Rio Grande Valley at the southern tip of Texas, the City of McAllen serves approximately 150,000 residents. The city is known for its vibrant culture, strong community values, and commitment to delivering efficient, responsive services to improve the quality of life for all residents. Article content DLT Solutions, LLC is a wholly owned subsidiary of TD SYNNEX, a leading global distributor and solutions aggregator. DLT is the premier government solutions aggregator that specializes in understanding the IT needs of the federal, state, local and education markets. We help simplify the process for software vendors, systems integrators and value-added resellers doing business in the public sector. Leveraging an extensive array of public sector contract vehicles, a deep roster of market experts and dedicated channel and enablement services, DLT provides government agencies and channel partners with the means to transform technology to achieve mission success – all through a secure supply chain. For more information, please visit Article content Article content Article content Article content Article content Contacts Article content Article content Article content
