San Antonio’s economic development group greater:SATX partnered with Port San Antonio this summer to place over 150 local high school and college students in paid internships. The program spanned industries including information technology, healthcare, finance and manufacturing, giving participants hands‑on experience before they graduate.
Student perspective
Jake McDonald, a senior at John F. Kennedy High School, spent eight‑hour days as a paid intern at Port San Antonio. He said the experience opened his eyes to career possibilities and solidified his interest in information technology. “All the tours we’ve been on really opened my eyes to all the different things out there,” McDonald said. “It specifically solidified my place in information technology.” He added that the internship helped him develop communication skills, noting, “I don’t think I would be able to talk to you like this if it wasn’t for this internship. I definitely broke out of my shell.” When asked what advice he would give peers, McDonald urged, “Take the chance. Definitely, take the chance. Do not pass up any opportunities.”
Economic impact
Joshua Scott, senior vice president of talent and workforce at greater:SATX, emphasized that these interns represent the region’s future talent pool. “When we talk about companies coming to San Antonio, that job creation piece — this is the future talent that’s going to be getting into these jobs,” he said.
Port San Antonio Business Development Specialist Stephanie Garcia highlighted the local focus of the program. “We want these kids to know that these jobs are here right in their backyard. These jobs are for them, and we want them to know they deserve them,” Garcia explained.
Strategic goals
Both Port San Antonio and greater:SATX view the internships as a dual‑purpose initiative. By providing paid, skill‑building positions, they aim to attract new companies to the region while retaining homegrown talent after graduation. The effort aligns with broader city goals to strengthen the workforce, support family stability and uphold the values of hard work and personal responsibility.
Local businesses and civic leaders have praised the program for its role in fostering a pipeline of qualified workers who can fill future vacancies without needing to look outside the community. The internships also give families a tangible example of how young people can earn while they learn, reinforcing the importance of parental guidance and community support in career planning.
Looking ahead
Greater:SATX plans to continue expanding the internship network, seeking additional partnerships with private sector employers and nonprofit organizations. The goal is to increase the number of paid positions available to San Antonio youth and to broaden the range of industries represented.
For students and families interested in future opportunities, greater:SATX encourages them to monitor the organization’s website and local school career centers for upcoming internship announcements.
Original reporting: San Antonio, TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
