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The Civic Tech Scholars program at the Better Futures Institute (BFI) is an internship designed to be a launchpad for emerging talent across San Antonio and South Texas. Designed for students pursuing degrees in computer science, cybersecurity, data analytics, and related fields, the program provides hands-on experience with real-world civic technology projects that address regional challenges.
By embedding Scholars in impactful work, BFI bridges the gap between academic training and career readiness, supporting workforce development and talent retention in the region. Participants build technical and research skills, build a profesional network, and gain exposure to the policy and planning decisions shaping their communities.
This year, Scholars are collaborating with VIA Metropolitan Transit, San Antonio’s public transportation agency. Through this partnership, they’re exploring how data can be used to improve service reliability, enhance rider experience, and support VIA’s long-term strategic goals. Scholars are contributing by evaluating ridership trends, researching equity in transit access, and developing data-informed solutions grounded in community needs.
The Scholars’ work also supports BFI’s ongoing efforts, including the South Texas Triangle Research and the BFI Fellows projects. This initiative aims to better understand the interconnected future of cities like San Antonio, Laredo, and Brownsville through community-driven narratives and data. Civic Tech Scholars provide critical research support, contribute to data analysis, and help shape the digital infrastructure behind these efforts.
As a growing network of changemakers, Civic Tech Scholars are part of a broader initiative to build a more equitable and innovative future—right here in South Texas.
Joshua Duque
University of Texas at San Antonio — B.S. in Computer Science
I’m a computer science student at UTSA with a passion for software development, microcontrollers, and robotics. Through BFI, I’ve gained valuable insight into how my skills can influence San Antonio—and how I can carry that impact wherever I go.
Christina Trujillo
Our Lady of the Lake University — M.S. in Cybersecurity, 2026
I’m currently pursuing my master’s in Cybersecurity at Our Lady of the Lake University, after earning a B.S. in Computer Information Systems and Security. I’m excited to join BFI to apply what I’ve learned in a real-world setting while continuing to explore my passion for technology.
Juan Carlos Flores
University of Texas at San Antonio — B.S. in Cybersecurity & Information Systems, 2025
I’m pursuing a dual degree in Cybersecurity and Information Systems while interning at both BFI and UTSA. With experience in IT, networking, and project management, I’m passionate about using technology to solve problems and uplift others. My faith has shaped my purpose: to empower others through mentorship and innovation. At BFI, I’m excited to contribute to meaningful projects that make a difference.
Liz Obst
University of Texas at San Antonio — M.S. in Data Analytics, 2026
Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi — B.S. in Biology, 2017
I’m pursuing an M.S. in Data Analytics at UTSA and hold a B.S. in Biology. I joined BFI to apply my skills at the intersection of data science and public impact. Outside of work, I enjoy birdwatching and exploring the outdoors.
Aidan Harvey
Trinity University — B.S. in Business Analytics and Technology, 2025
I’m a senior at Trinity University majoring in Business Analytics and Technology, with minors in Data Science and Finance. After graduation, I plan to pursue a master’s in machine learning and data science. I joined BFI to gain experience and contribute to meaningful work that benefits San Antonio.
Chelsea Ogbede
University of Texas at San Antonio — B.S. in Computer Science, 2026
I’m a junior studying Computer Science at UTSA, with a passion for using technology to improve healthcare access in underserved communities. I’m excited to contribute to BFI’s mission and apply my skills to real-world challenges through civic tech.
Isaiah King
University of Texas at San Antonio — B.S. in Cybersecurity
I’m a junior at UTSA majoring in Cybersecurity. Outside of school, I enjoy traveling, working out, and staying active in student organizations. I’m thrilled to join BFI to put my cybersecurity skills into practice and work on projects with real impact.
Ha Mie
University of Texas at San Antonio — B.S. in Computer Science, 2025
I’m completing my degree in Computer Science with a concentration in Software Engineering and Data Science. As a first-generation college student, I’m passionate about using data science and AI to solve real-world problems. BFI offers the perfect space to merge technical work with purpose.
