UMSI alumnus Noah Skrok on applying data in high-stakes environments

During his time as a Master of Science in Information student at the University of Michigan School of Information, Noah Skrok also served as a Reserve Officers' Training Corps cadet on campus. 

Through his UMSI coursework, he gained the ability to address real-world problems using data, developing “a broader skill set and a unique perspective” that have served him well in his chosen career path. 

After earning his MSI degree in 2024, he was commissioned into the U.S. Army as a military intelligence officer, a role that challenges him to use his skills in data analysis in high-stakes, quickly-changing environments. 

“It’s not just about gathering information; it’s about understanding the bigger picture,” Skrok says. “Good intelligence can help shape broader national security strategies, diplomatic decisions and even humanitarian efforts.” 

In this Q&A, Skork describes his current role and offers advice to future UMSI graduates.

UMSI: Can you give us a glimpse into your current role? What do you do, and what is the impact?

Noah Skrok: As a military intelligence officer in the U.S. Army, my role is centered on providing critical intelligence to support the operational and strategic decisions of the Army. I analyze data from a variety of sources — signals intelligence, human intelligence, geospatial data and open-source information — to assess threats and provide the commander with actionable insights. It’s not just about gathering information; it’s about understanding the bigger picture, connecting the dots and anticipating the future actions of our adversaries.

One of the most impactful aspects of my work is that it directly influences the success and safety of military operations. The intelligence I provide can be the difference between mission success and failure. It can save lives, protect our forces and give us the upper hand in conflict situations.

The stakes are high. Every piece of intelligence we collect is scrutinized for its accuracy and relevance. There’s a lot of pressure to ensure that what we deliver is actionable and reliable. Sometimes, that means working under tight deadlines, coordinating across different military branches and dealing with rapidly evolving situations. The impact of our work extends beyond the battlefield too — good intelligence can help shape broader national security strategies, diplomatic decisions and even humanitarian efforts.

What are the most valuable skills you developed in the MSI program?

At UMSI, the most valuable lesson I learned was the importance of stepping outside my comfort zone and exploring courses beyond my immediate career focus. By challenging myself with diverse subjects, I gained a broader skill set and a unique perspective that enriched my professional life. This approach not only enhanced my adaptability but also opened doors to new opportunities and career paths I hadn’t initially considered.

Do you have a favorite UMSI memory? 

My best memory at UMSI was working on and successfully completing my capstone project. It was a challenging yet incredibly rewarding experience that allowed me to apply everything I had learned in a real-world context. Additionally, being part of the Army ROTC program on campus added a unique dimension to my time at UMSI, teaching me leadership skills and discipline that have shaped my career.

What advice do you have for current students and recent graduates?

My advice to current and prospective students, as well as fellow alumni, is to embrace leadership not just in traditional ways, but by learning to collaborate with people who may think, act or look different from you. Leadership is not just about making decisions, but about fostering an environment where diverse perspectives can thrive. When you learn to navigate those differences, whether in class, at work or in life, you grow as both a person and a professional, becoming someone who can truly adapt, understand and lead in any setting.

For young professionals looking to enter the field of military intelligence, my advice is to focus on building a strong foundation of analytical thinking. Read daily! Stay curious and continuously seek to learn, whether it’s through formal education, self-study or gaining experience in problem-solving roles. Cultivate a deep understanding of global geopolitics, technology and security issues. Additionally, being able to work under pressure and communicate effectively is key, as intelligence work often involves high-stakes decision making in fast-moving environments. Finally, developing a strong sense of integrity and attention to detail will set you apart in this field, where accuracy and reliability are paramount.