Opportunities for Innovation and Partnerships in Higher Education

April 27-30, 2025

International delegates from Chile, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Peru visited San Antonio to explore youth workforce development, experiential learning, and international education partnerships. The program focused on how local government, universities, and the private sector collaborate to prepare students for the job market and foster global learning opportunities.

Delegates met with the University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) to discuss international student support services, study abroad programs, and future higher education partnerships aimed at promoting cross-cultural learning. At Alamo Colleges District, visitors learned about the district’s international education initiatives and explored potential exchange programs with their home universities and institutions.

At City Tower, the Ready to Work team shared how they collaborate with local colleges, training providers, and employers to align education with workforce needs, offering career counseling, job placement, and other support services. Trinity University’s Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship highlighted start-up competitions, hands-on learning, interdisciplinary programs, and alumni networks connecting students with entrepreneurial leaders.

The visit concluded at Tech Port at Port San Antonio, where delegates toured facilities, explored youth STEM education programs through SAMSAT, and learned about talent development initiatives. Discussions also focused on regional partnerships between education and industry that foster innovation, strengthen career pipelines, and expand STEM access for students.