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The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) is committed to uplifting the city by driving economic growth and strengthening the local workforce. UTSA is intentionally aligning degrees with San Antonio’s most in-demand industries to grow the talent pipeline, and with 90% of recent graduates staying and working in Texas, the university’s alumni are actively shaping the state’s economic future. In addition, UTSA recently announced a merger with UT Health San Antonio to create a world-class institution, which will significantly amplify the university’s impact and reach.
UTSA’s Provost Heather Shipley breaks down how the university’s strategy to activate San Antonio’s urban core with career-engaged students is playing a major role in the economic growth of the city, region and state.
The impact of UTSA’s downtown growth
Provost Shipley, UTSA is having a big role in shaping San Antonio’s downtown landscape with its expanding campus. How do you see UTSA’s expanded downtown presence impacting the city’s economic growth and development?
I’m really energized by the progress we’ve made in expanding UTSA’s presence downtown — it’s all about helping San Antonio grow and thrive. We’re preparing our students to graduate with the skills and experience they need to find great jobs right here, so they can contribute to our community. We’re aligning our classes with San Antonio’s workforce needs and working closely with local businesses and community organizations to create new educational experiences. It’s a win-win situation — more opportunities for students lead to a stronger economy and long-term growth for everyone.
What is the potential impact of UTSA’s downtown expansion on the surrounding community and businesses?
By growing UTSA’s downtown presence, we’re bringing a whole new energy to the area. With more students downtown, local businesses will thrive – with restaurants, shops and services anticipated to see an increase in demand. I’m excited at the thought of seeing UTSA students all over downtown San Antonio, bringing a fresh wave of energy to the area. It’s a great way to make downtown even more exciting and create a vibrant community that extends beyond the traditional focus on tourism.
Innovative programs within the urban core
The university has several new and recently acquired facilities downtown, like the UTSA Southwest Campus and now One Riverwalk Place. How does UTSA determine which programs will be placed downtown?
We strategically place programs downtown that match the area’s needs, particularly tech, arts and other key industries. This approach supports downtown revitalization, builds partnerships and makes sure our students are gaining skills that are directly connected to local industry demands and opportunities for future employment.
UTSA made lots of news last January when you announced a new College of Artificial Intelligence to be launched in 2025. Why did you decide to locate the School of Data Science and a new AI college downtown?
The new college, focused on AI, cybersecurity, computing and data science will be a major step forward and will significantly enhance the work we’re doing in the School of Data Science and research-focused centers and institutes in these fields. These disciplines are driving innovation and economic growth across a wide range of industries, and UTSA is proud to be educating the next generation of advanced technology experts who will help to keep our country safe. The program’s downtown location will only enhance opportunities for our students, creating greater access to internships and real-world experience with local businesses and nonprofits. I’m confident this new college will help them succeed while also providing San Antonio’s employers with the talented graduates they need to keep growing and innovating.
Impactful partnerships with the region’s industry leaders
You’ve talked a lot about the importance of preparing career-ready students as one of UTSA’s signature strengths. What is the rationale for locating career-focused resources on the downtown campuses?
We’re making sure our downtown campuses have all the tools students need for success. This means they have support at every step of the way with everything from job hunting to networking. We’ve created an ecosystem that connects academia to industry by co-locating in our San Pedro I and San Pedro II buildings. And with our downtown campuses in close proximity to businesses, City Hall, Bexar County district courts and San Antonio’s arts district and tech corridor, it’s just a great opportunity for the students and helps our whole community grow and thrive.
UTSA has established a reputation as a university that actively seeks out and invests in partnerships. How do UTSA’s partners help position students for career success?
UTSA is working closely with local businesses, community organizations and industry leaders to help our students reach their career goals. Our Najim Center for Innovation and Career Advancement — located downtown — partners with companies like Dell, Experian, AT&T and Geekdom, connecting students with internships, real-world projects and direct pathways for employment. These opportunities help them learn important skills, gain valuable experience and build professional connections, and upon graduation, they’ll be ready to succeed and contribute to the economic growth of San Antonio.
