TJ Ortega

TJ Ortega is a highly motivated Navy Veteran providing critical public relations and strategic communications counsel to the C-Suite and senior-level officials. With more than 18 years of service and Public Relations professionalism, he has served in the Defense industry and aboard multiple duty locations in the Navy in support of operations around the globe.

Currently serving as a Communication Manager with Fearless supporting an Air Force contract, he deals extensively with Military public affairs, visual information, media/public relations, shaping public perception and increasing public awareness. Ortega previously worked at G2 Software Systems as a Strategic Communications Specialist supporting a Department of Defense contract with the Joint Tactical Networking Center and as a Public Relations Specialist with Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems.

Along with his work in the Defense Industry, Ortega has been serving the country for a total of 19 years in the Navy and Navy Reserve as a Public Affairs Officer. Currently serving as a Public Affairs Officer with Commander Third Fleet, he has deployed around the globe and served onboard the USS Peleliu (LHA 5) and USS Nimitz (CVN 68) where he deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom to the Western Pacific and the Arabian Sea. With shore duty to include Personnel Support Detachment San Diego, Navy Public Affairs Element West, and Navy Information Pacific Fleet. A former enlisted Mass Communications Specialist, this Mustang leader loves providing critical leadership to his Sailors and serving his country.

In 2021, he took the most recent step in his educational path, by joining the first-ever Department of Defense Information School and West Virginia University Integrated Marketing Communications cohort. He graduated with a Master of Science in Integrated Marketing Communications in 2022. He also holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications from San Diego State University.

Ortega is always aiming to accomplish his goals and seeking new challenges. He is a self-directed leader with the ability to complete multiple projects and develop strategic communications strategies in a timely manner with the utmost confidentiality. Moreover, he has a professional work ethic in fast-paced environments demanding strong organizational, technical, and interpersonal skills with time-sensitive tasks. He quickly absorbs and adapts to new environments and challenges.

His personal and military awards include a Telly Award, Navy Thompson-Ravitz Award, PRSA Silver Anvil, two Navy Commendation Medals, a Joint Service Achievement Medal, six Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals, three Meritorious Unit Commendations, the Navy “E” Ribbon, two Navy Good Conduct Medals, the Naval Reserve Meritorious Service Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, three Sea Service Deployment Ribbons, Pistol Marksmanship Ribbon, and his Surface Warfare and Aviation Warfare insignias.

Originally from Denver, Colorado, Ortega currently resides in San Diego, California with his family.

Meet TJ

Chapters:  
0:00 Introduction  
1:26 Why do you teach in the program?  
2:56 How do you bring the real world into your online classes?  
4:14 Fun (surprise) question