The sixth class day of Leadership San Antonio (LSA) Class 50, themed “Mission Possible,” offered an action-packed exploration of San Antonio’s military legacy, technological innovation and the people and organizations shaping the region’s future. Through four distinct experiences, class members explored the connections between San Antonio’s military and technology ecosystem, from its history and current impact to the innovations that will help shape what comes next.
At the start of the day, UT San Antonio's mascot Rowdy and their championship cheerleader squad greeted class members as they arrived at Credit Human’s headquarters. Chief Marketing Officer Amy Engallina touted the innovative and sustainable practices of the Credit Human workforce and infrastructure.
Then, the class received a distinctly military welcome at the Boeing Center at Tech Port. LSA50 veterans were recognized for their service, while the Air Force Band of the West Brass Quintet performed and the South San High School JROTC Color Guard presented the colors. Brian E. Hoffman, Vice Director of the 502nd Air Base Wing and Joint Base San Antonio and an alumnus of LSA Class 46, highlighted the military’s innovative work underway across San Antonio and class members participated in a military working dog demonstration.
The program then shifted from military tradition to technological innovation. Port San Antonio President & CEO Jim Perschbach, a member of LSA Class 36, discussed Tech Port’s evolution into a technology and innovation campus that brings together military, industry and research organizations focused on advanced technologies. 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 President & CEO Adam Hamilton shared the organization’s focus on the future of technology in San Antonio. A panel discussion featuring Dr. Beto Gomez of Irys Technologies and Better Futures Institute, Christopher Mammen of the Dee Howard Foundation, and Lynne Randolph of SwRI, 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.
Class members also participated in a Special Warfare obstacle course that required them to work together to successfully navigate the course. It provided an important lesson for the day: leadership requires communication, teamwork, resilience and the ability to perform under pressure.
“This class day 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,” said Angela McClendon Johnson, Greater San Antonio Chamber Vice President of Leadership, Education & Workforce. “The various experiences throughout the day demonstrated that legacy and innovation are not competing forces—they are powerful partners in shaping San Antonio’s next chapter.”