Spotlight Series: Lina Rugova

Palo Alto College recently launched its first bachelor’s program. The Bachelor of Applied Technology in Operations Management arms students with essential business, finance, technology, and human resources skills. At the heart of this exciting program is Lina Rugova, an instructor whose real-world business experience and passion for teaching are helping shape the next generation of business leaders.

Lina’s story starts in the Bronx, New York, where she moved when she was 16. She grew up in the fast-paced business world of New York City, working with various companies in a consulting role and even owning a few businesses of her own. When she moved to San Antonio, Lina quickly realized that the challenges facing local small businesses were very different from what she had experienced in New York—and she was eager to make an impact.

That’s why she started a non-profit business accelerator designed to help early-stage companies, typically startups, grow quickly and efficiently through providing resources, mentorship on financial and digital literacy, and networking.

“The current trend has been equipping businesses with the latest AI technology, but in San Antonio, most small businesses don’t even have websites,” shared Lina. “We have a severe digital literacy gap, so we need to find ways to provide our local businesses the tools to succeed.” 

Lina explains. “When businesses have access to this knowledge, they can create jobs, boost the local economy, and build lasting success.”

This drive to uplift her community led to Lina’s journey at Palo Alto College, where she began as an adjunct faculty member. She came on board with a wealth of real-world business knowledge and a deep commitment to teaching students the practical skills they need to succeed. In August 2023, Lina transitioned to a full-time faculty position, quickly becoming a driving force behind the Bachelor of Applied Technology program.

In her courses, students aren’t just learning concepts—they’re putting them to use by working with real businesses in San Antonio to develop business plans, solve financial challenges, or create digital strategies. Students tackle real problems that businesses face today with the guidance of faculty and seasoned professionals.

Lina has worked to create spaces where students can connect, collaborate, and support each other as they navigate their academic and professional journeys.

“Students tell me that they feel a real sense of belonging in our program,” says Lina. “That’s because we’ve created a community where students, faculty, and local businesses work together toward shared goals.”

In addition to her work in the classroom, Lina has been instrumental in launching the PAC Biz Innovators student club. Open to anyone interested in business or entrepreneurship, the club allows students to gain real-world experience, network with professionals, and pitch their own business ideas for funding. 

“We want to give students the resources, support, and opportunities to succeed as entrepreneurs,” Lina says. “Whether they’re pitching a new business idea or learning how to manage a growing company, we’re here to help them every step of the way.”

The first cohort of students in the BAT program is set to graduate in May 2025, a milestone that marks the beginning of many more successes. Lina is excited to see her students reach this important moment in their academic journey, and she looks forward to supporting their growth in the years ahead.

To learn more about the Bachelor of Applied Technology, contact Krishtien Ramos at 210-486-3083 or email her at ktrejo13@alamo.edu.