Tomorrow’s Tech Workforce

Ernesto Diaz Jr. is a clear example of what happens when Texas A&M University-San Antonio invests in potential—and that bet pays off. Originally from Laredo, Texas, Diaz received a scholarship and housing grant to attend the University. He graduated in 2025 with a B.S. in Computer Science and now works as an artificial intelligence (AI) engineer for San Antonio-based Frost Bank, where he tests software vulnerabilities to protect the bank and its customers. 

“It’s just so exciting and fresh,” he said of his work. 

Diaz’s journey reflects both the University’s growth and its impact on the region. His experience highlights the expanding need for computer science and STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) skills throughout the rapidly evolving tech and financial sectors. 

A&M-San Antonio has invested heavily in developing computing pathways to meet that demand. The University launched its Bachelor of Science in Computer Science in 2012 and its Master of Science in Computer Science in 2019. In 2021, it added a cybersecurity-focused bachelor’s degree, followed by a graduate program in 2023. Today, about 500 students are enrolled in the Computer Science and Cybersecurity programs. 

Last year, the Computer Science program reached a major milestone: accreditation from the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), the international standard for academic rigor in applied science fields. 

A&M-San Antonio now boasts the only ABET-accredited Computer Science program in San Antonio. Associate Professor Dr. Jeong Yang, director of the Center for Information Technology and Cybersecurity, who led the accreditation effort, said the designation strengthens student recruitment, enhances alumni career prospects, and signals the University’s commitment to workforce preparation. 

"We are continuing to expand our footprint across the city, across the state, and across the nation."

~ Dr. Debra Feakes

“This is a significant achievement for both the Computer Science program and the University,” Yang said. “It reflects years of hard work and dedication by the faculty, staff, and students.” 

According to the Science & Technology Action Committee, more than 36 million people—24 percent of the U.S. labor pool—work in STEM fields, yet the pipeline continues to lag behind industry needs.

“One of the hallmarks of this University is that we are very workforce-driven,” said Dr. Debra Feakes, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. “We are continuing to expand our footprint across the city, across the state, and across the nation.” 

For Diaz, who entered college with little computer experience, the program’s curriculum and faculty mentorship made all the difference. 

“All of my professors made sure we could explain complex computer science topics—especially to people who don't have a background in computing,” he said. That skill has helped him transition quickly into his role at Frost Bank.   

He is not the only Jaguar making an impact there. Arturo Corona ’23 also works at Frost as an Android mobile software developer, helping ensure customers enjoy seamless mobile experiences. A self-described gamer, Corona said the Computer Science program prepared him to enter the workforce confident and capable. 

“My teachers were really invested,” he said. “They kept us up to date with new technology. Now I get to practice what I learned.” 

Yang describes these success stories as “closing the loop”—connecting classroom learning to real-world application. 

As A&M-San Antonio continues to expand its offerings, alumni like Diaz and Corona are proving why these investments matter. With ABET accreditation, industry partnerships, and a rapidly evolving curriculum, A&M-San Antonio is positioning itself—and its graduates—as key contributors to the region’s economic and technological transformation.