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LSA Class 50’s Day 6, “Mission Possible,” was an action-packed exploration of San Antonio’s military legacy, technological innovation, and the people and organizations shaping the region’s future. The day brought the class together across four distinctive experiences, connecting the past and present of San Antonio’s military and technology ecosystem with a hands-on look at what comes next.
The day began with an energetic tone at Credit Human, as the class was greeted by UT San Antonio's mascot Rowdy and their championship cheerleader squad. Chief Marketing Officer Amy Engallina, touted the innovative and sustainable practices of the Credit Human workforce and infrastructure. The class then traveled to the Boeing Center at Tech Port.
As the class received a distinctly military welcome at Tech Port, featuring the Air Force Band of the West Brass Quintet and the South San High School JROTC Color Guard, LSA50 veterans in the class were recognized for their service. Brian E. Hoffman, vice director of the 502nd Air Base Wing and Joint Base San Antonio and an alum of LSA Class 46, shared the innovative efforts being performed in San Antonio by the military; after which members participated in a military working dog demonstration.
The program then shifted from military tradition to technological innovation. Port San Antonio CEO Jim Perschbach welcomed the class and discussed Tech Port’s evolution into a technology-focused hub. Perschbach, a member of LSA Class 36, helped frame the discussion around the region’s continuing transformation. A panel explored how San Antonio is leveraging its military assets to support technology, cybersecurity, workforce development and talent retention. Members then participated in interactive rotations at the San Antonio Museum of Science and Technology (SAMSAT) and the LAN Gaming Center, including scavenger hunts and hands-on activities.
From Tech Port, the class traveled to Southwest Research Institute (SwRI), where CEO Adam Hamilton shared SwRI's focus on **the future of technology in San Antonio. A panel discussion followed featuring Dr. Beto Gomez of Irys Technologies and Better Futures Institute; Christopher Mammen of the Dee Howard Foundation; and Lynne Randolph of SwRI that examined innovation, talent and the technologies expected to shape the region’s future. Specialized tours highlighting SwRI’s biomedical, biomechanical and engineering work provided a firsthand look at the research and innovation taking place in San Antonio and the potential it holds for the region’s continued economic growth.
The afternoon took a more physical turn at Pearl, where LSA 50 members participated in a Special Warfare obstacle course and were challenged to navigate the course together. The obstacle course provided a fitting leadership lesson for the day—requiring communication, teamwork, resilience and the ability to perform under pressure. All presenters and special guests were recognized with branded Day 6, “Mission Possible” challenge coins.
Mission Possible delivered on its promise: a day that challenged the class physically, intellectually, and collaboratively while showcasing the extraordinary connection between San Antonio’s military heritage, technology ecosystem, research institutions, and future workforce. From military working dogs and cybersecurity to cutting-edge research and a hands-on Special Warfare challenge, Day 6 demonstrated that legacy and innovation are not competing forces—they are powerful partners in shaping San Antonio’s next chapter.