Ahtziri Saldana Selected for Prestigious Tjuana Byrd Summer Internship Program
Ahtziri Saldana, a civil engineering major at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, has been selected for the esteemed Tjuana Byrd Summer Internship Program. This program, designed to enhance access and representation for women of color in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) fields, is highly competitive and offers a unique opportunity for students to gain practical experience and develop their professional skills.
As one of nine students chosen for the program, Saldana will participate in a 12-week summer internship with an Arkansas-based company. The internship will provide her with the chance to work on real projects, attend mentorship and networking events, and receive professional development workshops. The program aims to remove barriers such as cost, social capital, and geographic location, facilitating a more inclusive and diverse workforce in Arkansas.
The Tjuana Byrd Summer Internship Program, named after the first Black president of the Women’s Foundation of Arkansas, is intentionally designed to improve diversity in STEAM fields. The companies involved have agreed to participate in diversity, equity, and inclusion training before the program commences. Throughout the internship, Saldana and her fellow participants will work closely with industry professionals, gain hands-on experience, and develop key skills essential for success in their chosen careers.
The Women’s Foundation of Arkansas, founded in 1998, focuses on ensuring economic security for women and girls through collaboration and strategic philanthropy. The foundation’s initiatives, including the Girls of Promise and Women Empowered programs, are dedicated to helping women and girls reach their full potential and move up the economic ladder.
Saldana’s selection for this prestigious program is a testament to her dedication and academic achievements. Her involvement will not only benefit her professional growth but also contribute to the broader goal of creating a more diverse and inclusive work environment in Arkansas.