A New Stadium, a New Career Path: USF Student-Athletes Help Build Their Future

For the University of South Florida (USF), the future isn’t just on the field—it’s also in the construction of their new on-campus stadium. More than a dozen student-athletes are trading their jerseys for hard hats to learn the ins and outs of the construction industry, getting a head start on their careers through a mentorship program with DuCon Construction.

From the Field to the Job Site

This isn’t your typical internship. Athletes like USF safety Jaelen Stokes and track and field hurdler Tyra Thomas are getting hands-on experience in every aspect of the stadium project, from bidding and ordering materials to on-site project management.

The program was the vision of DuCon CEO Ernest DuBose II, a former college football player himself. DuBose recognized the powerful parallels between sports and construction: both require discipline, teamwork, and a clear understanding of everyone’s role. For him, the goal is simple: to help these students turn their internships into careers.

Building More Than a Stadium

This initiative is about much more than just a building. It’s about providing a clear path for student-athletes after their playing days are over. For Jaelen Stokes, who once considered a career in law enforcement, the program has opened his eyes to a potential future in construction management. For Tyra Thomas, it’s fueling a personal dream of buying and renovating properties to create affordable housing for future student-athletes.

By investing in their post-athletic careers, USF is showing that the skills learned on the field—teamwork, trust, and preparation—are the very same skills that build successful lives off of it. For these student-athletes, the new stadium isn’t just a place to play; it’s a testament to the future they helped build.