WRITER: Carlos Cuesta, 575-646-7415, carlosic@nmsu.edu
The University Center program at Arrowhead Center, a U.S. Economic Development Administration-funded initiative at New Mexico State University, is helping close the opportunity gap for students from rural and underserved communities by placing them in hands-on internships with startup businesses across New Mexico. After completing a comprehensive course in technology commercialization, five students have been matched with local companies to gain real-world experience in innovation-driven roles.
The program’s core curriculum introduces students to technology commercialization, business modeling, intellectual property, market research, customer discovery and technology funding. These skills prepare participants to make meaningful contributions to high-growth startups while advancing their career paths.
The most recent cohort includes:
- Daniela Palacios, NMSU – Marketing intern at Backyard Farms, an agriculture startup focused on regenerative practices and localized food systems.
- Luis Burgos, Western New Mexico University – Research intern at Contexa LLC, a company building advanced data visualization tools for healthcare and scientific research.
- Anysi Vazquez, Western New Mexico University – Market research intern at Labyrinth Consulting LLC, a firm that supports small businesses and startup growth through market intelligence and strategic consulting.
- Diego Borrego, New Mexico Highlands University – Marketing intern at Wave On Health, a healthtech startup developing personalized recovery solutions for athletes and patients.
- Richard Owusu-Ansah, New Mexico Tech – Data science intern at Firescape, a company using predictive analytics to support wildfire mitigation and resource management.
“These placements represent more than just internships; they are high-impact learning opportunities that support regional innovation,” Dana Catron, Arrowhead Center interim director and CEO said. “By preparing students with practical commercialization skills and connecting them with real startups, we are helping New Mexico build a stronger, more inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem.”
Palacios said that through her internship, she learned effective communication, along with how to stay flexible and incorporate feedback to improve her work.
“I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with their team and contribute to their mission,” she said. “This experience inspired me to continue sharing the stories of businesses that blend innovative technologies with a commitment to promoting local goods.”
For Borrego, the experience has been personally and professionally rewarding.
“This is the best opportunity I have had,” he said. “The internship aligned with my area of interest and studies, which are marketing and sports.”
The student interns will participate in a Technology Commercialization Showcase, where they’ll share their experiences, accomplishments and reflections on working at the intersection of education and entrepreneurship.
The University Center program continues to serve as a bridge between higher education and regional economic development, empowering students while accelerating the growth of startups across the state.
For more information, visit https://arrowheadcenter.nmsu.edu/program/studio-g/university-center/index.html or email syounker@nmsu.edu.
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PHOTO CAPTION: New Mexico State University student Daniela Palacios worked as a marketing intern at Backyard Farms in Las Cruces through a program offered by the University Center program at NMSU’s Arrowhead Center. (Courtesy photo)
IMAGE DESCRIPTION: Woman sitting at a computer.