Summer 2025 Civic Tech Scholars Internship

The Summer 2025 Civic Tech Scholars Internship is a 10-week, paid, full-time, program deeply invested in developing the next generation of leaders through civic-focused research. Our experiential learning program is designed not just to impart skills, but to inspire a commitment to social impact in our community. We empower Civic Tech Scholars by providing them with the tools and support they need to excel in their chosen fields and to drive meaningful change in their communities. Depending on the research focus, students in this internship will have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience or further refine existing competence with tools such as ArcGIS, QGIS, SQL, ReactJS, and Microsoft Excel among others. They will use these tools to collect, interpret, and analyze data that informs research projects focused on community design and improvement. 

In our dynamic startup culture, intellectual curiosity, and peer collaboration are encouraged with regular meetings, presentations, and deliverables involving stakeholders, board members, and research fellows. The Civic Tech Scholars Internship is a unique opportunity that requires interdisciplinary knowledge and enables real-world problem-solving with hands-on experience in civic technology. Civic Tech Scholars are expected to take on concentrated responsibilities, adapt to evolving challenges, and apply technology-driven solutions to complex issues. The fast-paced, intellectually challenging environment necessitates collaboration, innovation, and critical thinking. Through this program, students will further develop professionalism, technical expertise, and a diverse skill set while addressing real-world challenges. Students will receive mentorship, guidance, and supervision from experienced professionals, gaining valuable insights at the intersection of data science, software development, public policy, and civic-focused research. Through this program, participants will explore how digital systems and data can shape the urban fabric and help inform how we manage and design cities. 

Students will also have the opportunity to contribute to internal projects such as the 311SA App, South Texas Triangle research, and our Better Futures Series. Through this hands-on experience, Civic Tech Scholars will bridge the gap between theory and practice, sharpen their problem-solving skills, and navigate the complexities of implementing real-world solutions. With a strong focus on civic research, social impact, and urban innovation, the program empowers Scholars to take an active role in shaping sustainable, equitable, and resilient communities for the future.

To learn more about Better Futures Institute and our Civic Tech Scholars Internship visit our website: https://www.bfinstitute.org.