For nearly 14 years, First Tee – Greater San Antonio has been an important part of Marlo Zamora’s life, helping build the confidence, leadership, and life skills that continue to guide her journey. Now, as Marlo prepares to graduate from Trinity University with a degree in Computer Science, a new opportunity is opening the door to the next chapter: being selected to attend AWS re:Invent 2026 as a First Tee representative.
Taking place November 30 through December 4 in Las Vegas, Nevada, AWS re is Amazon Web Services’ annual global conference, bringing together professionals, innovators, and technology leaders to explore advancements in cloud computing, artificial intelligence, data analytics, and more.
The opportunity is made possible through an expanding collaboration between Amazon Web Services (AWS) and First Tee. A remarkable partner of First Tee since 2021, AWS is creating new pathways for First Tee alumni to explore professional opportunities, strengthen their technical knowledge, and build connections within the technology industry.
For Marlo, the experience represents much more than attending a conference. It is another milestone in a journey that began on the golf course and has grown into a passion for technology.
From the Golf Course to Computer Science
Marlo spent 10 years as a First Tee participant before becoming a First Tee Scholar and alum. Although golf played a significant role in her development, the program’s lessons extended far beyond the course.
As a high school senior, Marlo applied for the First Tee Scholar Program, unsure of her chances of being selected. When the acceptance came, it marked a turning point. The scholarship made it possible to attend Trinity University, where Marlo is majoring in Computer Science and played two years of collegiate golf.
Beyond financial support, the Scholar Program introduced Marlo to a network of mentors and fellow scholars who provided guidance throughout college. As the first person in her family to pursue a STEM major, having a community to turn to for advice and encouragement made a lasting difference.
One of those mentors, Mike King, has guided Marlo since her freshman year, offering valuable insight as she navigated the technical world and explored career opportunities. That support also helped Marlo through the difficult decision to step away from collegiate golf to focus on her education and professional development.
Through these experiences, Marlo discovered that the values learned at First Tee, including perseverance, confidence, and the ability to navigate challenges, could translate into success in any field.
Discovering a Future in Technology
Marlo’s interest in technology grew through another opportunity made possible by the First Tee network. Before her sophomore year, she was one of three First Tee Scholars selected to participate in the John Deere Classic.
During the experience, Marlo played in the Pro-Am with former John Deere Vice President Leslee Hager, met employees from across the company, and toured John Deere’s world headquarters. The experience offered a new perspective on the company, revealing how software, data, and innovation play essential roles in its work.
That visit sparked a goal: to work for John Deere.
Marlo went on to spend the past two summers as a Software Engineering Intern with the company, gaining hands-on technical experience and growing professionally. The internships reinforced her interest in the intersection of technology, innovation, and real-world problem-solving.
As graduation approaches, Marlo is exploring career opportunities in technology, including data analytics, solutions architecture, and cloud architecture. Attending AWS re:Invent offers an opportunity to learn from industry experts, explore emerging technologies, and gain a deeper understanding of the field’s future.
“Being selected as a First Tee representative for AWS re:Invent is incredibly meaningful because it represents the impact First Tee has had on every stage of my journey,” Marlo shared. “First Tee has opened doors I never imagined possible, helped shape who I am beyond the game of golf, and provided a community that continues to support me as I pursue my goals.”
Giving Back and Creating Opportunities for Others
Even while pursuing academic and professional goals, Marlo has remained committed to giving back to the First Tee community.
With support from Leslee Hager, Marlo helped bring ParTake, an event created through First Tee – Greater San Antonio, to First Tee Quad Cities. The event provides a welcoming environment for women to learn golf fundamentals while exploring the personal and professional opportunities the game can create.
Working alongside Sara Cross and the First Tee Quad Cities team, with support from John Deere, Marlo helped bring the event to life for two consecutive years. Together, participants and sponsors raised $5,000 for First Tee Quad Cities, extending the program’s impact to more young people.
This commitment to service reflects the lasting influence of First Tee: the lessons learned through the game can inspire alumni to lead, build connections, and create opportunities for others.
Looking Ahead to AWS re:Invent
At AWS re:Invent, Marlo will join a global community of technology professionals to explore the latest developments in cloud computing and artificial intelligence, participate in learning opportunities, and connect with experts and peers across industries.
The experience is especially meaningful because it will also provide Marlo with the opportunity to meet her mentor, Mike King, in person for the first time after years of mentorship, encouragement, and guidance.
As Marlo prepares to enter the professional world, the conference represents another opportunity to build on the foundation established through First Tee, both on and off the golf course.
“Attending AWS re is an opportunity to strengthen my technical skills, learn from industry leaders, and continue building the future I once only dreamed about,” Marlo shared.
Marlo’s selection is a reminder that First Tee’s impact extends far beyond golf. Through character development, scholarships, mentorship, and meaningful professional connections, First Tee helps young people discover their potential and pursue futures they may never have imagined.
As Marlo takes this next step, we are proud to celebrate her accomplishments and grateful to AWS for continuing to invest in opportunities that help First Tee alumni grow, lead, and become game changers in their communities and careers.