Spotlight Series: Taylor Coffee

As Palo Alto College (PAC) makes strides in supporting its military or military-affiliated students, one individual’s vision, dedication, and passion have helped shape a transformative initiative for the San Antonio community. Taylor Coffee, Coordinator of High School Programs, is the driving force behind the development of the Future Soldier Program, a partnership with the U.S. Army that redefines educational access and military career opportunities for individuals without a high school diploma.

Taylor’s path to leadership at PAC is a profoundly personal one. A first-generation college student, Taylor attended PAC before transferring to the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), where he earned his bachelor’s degree. His connection to the college has remained strong over the years, and after working as a high school senior advisor, Taylor was named Coordinator of High School Programs. In this role, he has been instrumental in developing dual enrollment programs and other initiatives to ensure local students have pathways to higher education while still in high school.

Taylor’s passion for helping others led to the creation of the Future Soldier Program, an initiative designed to offer military career opportunities to individuals without a high school diploma. When Taylor enlisted in the Army Reserves at age 35, he saw firsthand the barriers faced by aspiring recruits without high school credentials. During his enlistment process, a conversation with a fellow recruit sparked an idea. The recruit, unable to join due to lacking a GED, was searching for ways to attain one.

“I went down to Fort Sam and was filling out some papers at the recruiting station when a potential recruit came in that didn’t qualify, and that’s when the recruiter asked me for guidance because he knew I worked in higher education,” shares Coffee. “I was able to share some information, and that’s when a lightbulb went off, and I realized there was a need we could help fill.” 

The experience stuck with Taylor, and upon returning from basic training, he reached out to key figures in local enlistment offices, including Civilian Aid to the Army Secretary Joe Bray, 5th Recruiting Brigade Commander Colonel Colón, and PAC President Dr. Robert Garza. Together, they worked to develop a solution. Their collaboration led to the creation of the Future Soldier Program, officially launched on July 10, 2024.

The Future Soldier Program is a revolutionary initiative that allows recruits who do not have a high school diploma or GED to enlist in the U.S. Army while earning their GED through PAC. Participants complete an intensive eight-week program, during which they receive tailored educational support aligned with their future military specialty (Military Occupational Specialty, or MOS). Active duty Drill Sergeants and Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) provide expert guidance, ensuring that recruits are prepared to earn their GED and excel in their military careers.

What makes the program truly unique is its integration with PAC’s resources. Students receive ongoing support from PAC advisors, Army recruiters, and faculty, making their educational journey seamless from start to finish. In addition, recruits are connected with career-planning resources to ensure their success beyond the military.

The program was inaugurated in a special signing ceremony on campus at the Ozuna Legacy Room, where the first group of Future Soldiers formally committed to their military careers and began their educational journey. For Taylor, this was a moment of pride—a culmination of years of hard work and collaboration that will have a lasting impact on the PAC community and the city of San Antonio.

"Seeing the first group of Future Soldiers sign up was one of the proudest moments of my career,” said Taylor. “This program isn't just about getting recruits into the Army—it’s about giving them the tools to succeed both in their military service and in life."

For Taylor, the Future Soldier Program is about more than just offering an alternative pathway to enlistment. It’s about serving his community and ensuring that those who want to serve their country have every opportunity to do so. Taylor hopes to expand this model across all Alamo Colleges, making the Future Soldier Program available to even more aspiring recruits throughout the district. His ultimate goal is to ensure that every person who is committed to serving in the Army but lacks a high school diploma has access to the educational opportunities and support they need to succeed.

We are proud to celebrate Taylor’s contributions to the Palo Alto College community. As the Future Soldier Program grows and evolves, it will continue to serve as a testament to his vision and commitment to making a difference in the lives of those who serve and those who wish to serve.

To learn more about the Future Soldier Program, contact Taylor Coffee at 210-486-3188 or email him at tcoffee@alamo.edu.