HOUSTON/AUSTIN, TX — Real-world transportation projects can be the most powerful classroom. Interns Ryan Green and Carl Danso spent their time at TGC applying what they learned in school to projects that shape Texas communities. Their fresh perspectives helped strengthen our work and reminded us why investing in emerging talent matters.

Working alongside TGC’s integrated team, Ryan and Carl supported projects ranging from transit access and pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure to mobility planning and roadway design. Through site visits, technical analysis, design, and project development, they saw firsthand how planning and engineering come together to create solutions that make a meaningful difference in communities. They developed new technical skills, contributed to project deliverables, and gained a better understanding of the collaboration it takes to move a project from concept to completion.

Now settling into the new academic year, Ryan and Carl reflect on their experiences at TGC. Get to know them and learn more in the Q&A below.

Meet Carl Danso — Engineering Intern (Houston)

As an Engineering Intern, Carl primarily supported METRO projects and gained hands-on experience in transportation planning and engineering. Originally from Houston, Texas, he is a sophomore studying architectural engineering at the University of Houston. Motivated by designing transportation systems that connect communities and strengthen infrastructure, especially in underserved areas, he was drawn to TGC after researching transportation projects in the Houston area. He pursued the internship to help improve the community where he grew up. Outside of work and school, he enjoys playing soccer and going to the gym, and he has a passion for fashion and designing clothes.

Carl (right) and team conducting field analysis for transit projects in Houston, Texas

Meet Ryan Green — Planning Intern (Austin)

As a Planning Intern, Ryan primarily supported mobility planning projects and gained hands-on experience in transportation and community planning. Originally from Cedar Park, Texas, he is a senior studying city and regional planning at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. He chose Cal Poly for its nationally recognized planning program and the opportunity to study in California, where unique regulations and land-use challenges make planning especially critical. Ryan is passionate about creating solutions that positively impact the environment and the communities those solutions serve. Outside of work and school, he enjoys hiking, going to the beach, working out, running, and spending time with friends.

Ryan hiking and navigating natural terrains in California

Q: What's the most valuable thing you learned at TGC?

Carl: The most valuable thing I learned is that the work we do directly impacts people's everyday lives. During site visits, I saw how something as simple as a bus running 15 minutes late can affect an entire community. That perspective showed me that every decision we make has a purpose and can make a real difference for the people we serve.

Ryan: Communication was probably the most valuable thing, not just asking good questions, but also talking with coworkers about the vision for a project. It's important, especially when something is client-facing, that your ideas and thoughts are well thought out and clearly expressed. I learned that being clear and intentional in how you communicate can help a project come together.

“It was rewarding to know that the time and effort I put into school can contribute to projects that improve how people live, work, and travel.”

— Carl Danso

Q: What's one skill you developed during your internship?

Carl: One of the biggest skills I developed was learning how to work as part of a team to create a strong final product. I also gained experience using Civil 3D and GIS and a better understanding of how the professional side of the industry works. It was rewarding to see how everyone's contributions come together to move a project forward.

Ryan: I picked up skills in AutoCAD and GIS tools that I had not used in school before. Learning those programs allowed me to contribute more and enhance my work, and I could see how well they fit into the bigger picture of planning. It's one thing to learn about these tools in theory, but actually using them on real projects made a huge difference in my ability to be hands-on in the real world.

“Seeing classroom concepts come to life on real projects was incredibly rewarding. Knowing the work I contributed to will help shape communities made it all feel meaningful.”

— Ryan Green

Ryan contributed to the development of a mobility plan in Kyle, Texas | Source: City of Kyle

Q: What surprised you about working in this industry?

Carl: I was surprised by how many people and organizations are involved in every project. From engineers and planners to government agencies and other consulting firms, it takes a lot of collaboration to move a project forward. I also learned that projects don't always go exactly as planned, so being able to adapt and work through challenges is an important part of the process.

Ryan: This was my first planning internship, so seeing a project from concept to completion was fascinating. From early stages of data collection to site analysis and design, it was super satisfying to see the whole process, rather than the bits and pieces you learn about in school. Getting to see how all the parts connect gave me a much better understanding of what this career actually looks like.

TGC is committed to investing in the next generation of planners and policy leaders. We support emerging professionals who share our vision of improving lives through thoughtful planning, robust technical analysis, inclusive engagement strategies, strategic design and communications, proactive public administration, and comprehensive engineering principles.

For additional information or questions, contact TGC to learn more about our services, our team, and our mission to connect capital to communities across Texas and beyond.

Intern Spotlight: Ryan Green and Carl Danso