Posted on April 24, 2026 by College of Sciences
#StaffSpotlight
Steven Quezada, Lab Services Supervisor II-Teaching Labs, Department of Biology, Health, and the Environment
Please tell us about yourself.
I am a native Texan, born and raised right here in San Antonio with Kickapoo roots. Growing up in a family of Spurs fans, and UT Texas-Exes, I've been a regular at DKR Memorial Stadium since before my twin sister and I could walk—though now I'll always be a huge Runner fan at heart.
Outside of work, my wife and I share our home with three amazing cats and love to spend time traveling or exploring the outdoors. I'm also an avid car enthusiast, currently building a 2006 WRX, and a lifelong percussionist. You can almost always find me listening to music or podcasts to keep my day energized.
What did your journey to UT San Antonio look like?
My path to UT San Antonio actually began through the CAP program. After my first year on campus, I realized I had found my place and decided to stay. During my time as a student, I balanced my academics by working as a sous chef for a local Vietnamese-French fusion shop.
After graduation, I spent four years in the private sector managing CBD hemp laboratories and retail operations as a General Manager. Ultimately, my journey brought me full circle back to UT San Antonio as a Lab Services Supervisor. I'm currently furthering my professional development here by pursuing studies in Project Management and Data Science.
How would you describe your role at UT San Antonio in 10 words or less?
I direct, assist, and support all laboratories within the BHE Department.
What is your proudest moment with the College of Sciences?
My proudest achievement has been supporting the BHE Department through significant evolutions, including departmental restructures, the challenges of the pandemic, and major facility moves. Seeing the department's growth firsthand is incredibly rewarding. On a personal note, I am honored to have received the Innovative Thinker Award (2024) and the Leadership Award (2026) during my tenure with the College of Sciences.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I thrive in the lab environment, especially the opportunity to collaborate closely with faculty, support staff, and student workers. Every day brings a new challenge, and I love the "on-your-toes" nature of the role, as well as brainstorming innovations to keep pace with the modern scientific world. There is never a boring day when you are surrounded by such driven, creative people.
How would you spend your ideal Saturday?
It starts with a slow morning: sleeping in, fresh coffee, and breakfast tacos from Caracheo's with my wife and our cats. The late morning would be spent at the TPC Oaks course with friends for a round of golf. To cap it all off, my perfect evening involves a sushi dinner, an Old Fashioned, and a live concert with my wife and loved ones.
— College of Sciences
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Designed for students who want a focus in biological structures and systems from multicellular life to local ecosystems to the entire terrestrial biosphere. Students have access to strong research programs, state-of-the-art resources, and competitive financial support.
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