Three cadets from the United States Coast Guard and one cadet from the United States Military Academy at West Point participated in the BTI Institute's 2018 Homeland Security Summer Internship program located at the University of Houston June to July 2018.

Kyla Hughley, Matthew Nagle and William Boardman are "First Class" cadets, meaning seniors at the USCG Academy. Emiliano Gonzalez is a "Firstie," meaning a senior at USMA. 

The cadets conducted literature review research and developed applicable planning products in support of a regional response to a Complex Coordinated Terrorist Attack workshop series. Each cadet was assigned to a different aspect of a regional response including emergency medical services, intelligence or victim support. 

Additionally, the cadets researched current institutions that provide a certification, undergraduate or graduate level degrees in the area of border studies to help the BTI Institute enhance our border studies education and workforce development efforts. Finally, the cadets supported the Institutes customer discovery and outreach efforts by researching and building executive read files that included biographies, press releases and congressional testimonies on Department of Homeland Security leadership.

Though there was plenty of work, there was also time to benefit from what the Houston area has to offer. In addition to enjoying local cuisine, the cadets participated in a guided tour of the NASA Johnson Space Center, the Port of Houston, and the U.S. Coast Guard Sector - Houston. 

"There was a lot of tasks that kept us busy but we also had the time to enjoy Houston," said Hughley. 

The Homeland Security Summer Internship is intended to familiarize future leaders in the Homeland Security and National Security space with the breadth of operational needs and research opportunities available.