Lexington, KY (June 16, 2026) – For University of Kentucky (UK) criminal justice student Tyler Gonzalez, classroom learning took on new meaning through a highly competitive internship with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
Gonzalez, a criminal justice major with a military leadership minor at the UK College of Social Work (CoSW), completed the internship last semester. The experience gave him a firsthand look at federal investigations, evidence review, field operations, and the connection between criminal investigative work and prosecution.
“During my internship with the ATF, I had the opportunity to follow the agents’ cases from start to finish, gaining a clear view of how federal investigations operate,” Gonzalez said. “By assisting with the review of digital evidence and recorded calls, I learned about the technology and investigative processes used to track and dismantle criminal networks.”
The ATF offers students the opportunity to gain experience in a competitive federal law enforcement internship program, where interns work alongside professionals and develop skills in areas such as critical analysis, problem solving, business writing and emerging technologies. For Gonzalez, the placement offered an opportunity to connect his academic preparation with real-world criminal justice work.
In addition to reviewing digital evidence and recorded calls, Gonzalez attended operational briefings and monitored controlled purchases of evidence through various electronic investigative techniques. The experience allowed him to observe the coordination, preparation, and situational awareness required during field operations. He also attended courthouse hearings, which helped him better understand how investigative work supports the prosecution process.
“All these experiences have allowed me to apply what I have learned in my criminal justice classes to real-world scenarios, reinforcing the importance of detail, teamwork and professionalism,” Gonzalez said. “This internship has solidified my commitment to a career in public service and to developing a professional foundation that I will carry with me in any role ahead.”
This summer, Gonzalez will attend Cadet Summer Training at Fort Knox before traveling to Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington for Cadet Troop Leadership Training, where he will shadow a military intelligence officer, learn about the day-to-day responsibilities of a platoon leader and gain firsthand insight into the military intelligence branch.
Set to graduate in spring 2027, Gonzalez has distinguished himself as an exceptional student and leader. He has earned Dean’s List recognition each year from 2024-26 and is the recipient of the William C. Parker Scholarship and the National Army ROTC Scholarship.
He also serves as the HHC commanding officer in the Wildcat Army ROTC Battalion and as the Kentucky Rangers commanding officer in the ROTC Fraternity.
Victoria Collins, Ph.D., executive director and chair of the criminal justice programs, said Gonzalez’s success reflects both his personal dedication and the value of criminal justice internships.
“Gonzalez has an incredible work ethic, character and commitment to public service,” Collins said. “His internship with the ATF is an impressive and highly competitive opportunity for any student. I am thrilled our program has helped support his journey and expand his experiential learning.”
The UK Criminal Justice programs launched in 2023 in response to a growing need for highly trained, workforce-ready graduates prepared to serve across law enforcement, corrections, victim advocacy, cybersecurity, investigations, community outreach, violence prevention and related fields.
“My experience in the criminal justice program has been great,” Gonzalez said. “I have loved every bit of UK and all the opportunities that it has given me!”