The AlumNow series showcases former students’ post-graduation successes.
We recently caught up with Mario Bahena, who is now an estimator at Balfour Beatty. Read about his educational journey at Dallas ISD and how his teachers impacted him to give back to his community.
What high school did you graduate from and what year did you graduate?
School For The Talented and Gifted at Yvonne A. Ewell Townview Center in 2010.
What is your current occupation?
I am an estimator on the education/municipal pre-construction team at Balfour Beatty.
From student to industry partner
Written by Chelsea Liles, Workforce Development
In Dallas ISD, the impact of mentorship can echo far beyond graduation.
Mario Bahena knows this firsthand.
While at Dallas ISD, he was known for being curious, motivated, and eager to learn.
With support from his teachers and mentors, Mario embraced hands-on learning, developed essential industry skills, and discovered a passion for construction, which gave him the experience needed to take the next step–a full-time internship with Balfour Beatty while in college.
What began as a student experience transformed into a professional pathway. He thrived in his new role, gaining on-site experience, contributing to real-world projects, and continuing to grow within the company.
Bahena is now a full-time employee at Balfour Beatty, and plays an integral role in partnering with Dallas ISD to recruit interns for the company.
Through this collaboration, Dallas ISD students gain access to meaningful, career-connected learning experiences with Balfour Beatty. Interns get a glimpse into the world of construction, learn valuable trade and soft skills, and explore pathways that lead to high-wage, high-demand careers.
Bahena’s advice to students seeking internships is simple.
“Be open to everything with internships,” he said. “Don’t limit yourself to one position–you want to see all aspects of a company, which will lead you to your own niche and passion.”
Mario’s journey is a testament to what happens when schools and industry partners come together with a shared vision: to empower students, nurture talent, and build a brighter future, one internship at a time.
