Computer science students work with law enforcement technology company, Blue Partner

Lafayette, LA – Senior computer science students from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette (UL Lafayette) gained real-world experience through an internship program with Blue Partner. The innovative technology company uses AI-driven solutions to streamline law enforcement operations and improve data management. This exciting collaboration is possible through a partnership with Opportunity Machine, UL Lafayette’s Informatics Research Institute, and Blue Partner to enhance student learning and create new opportunities for technological innovation in the region.

Blue Partner specializes in providing cloud-based software solutions for law enforcement, integrating fragmented systems, and automating processes to allow officers to focus on community safety. By harnessing artificial intelligence, the platform enables real-time decision support, report generation, and data accessibility, improving operational efficiency and transparency.

The partnership with UL Lafayette allows students to work on real-world projects that address current challenges in the tech industry while simultaneously contributing to Blue Partner's growth as a rising leader in law enforcement technology.

Ryan Bourque, Founder and CEO of Blue Partner, said, "This collaboration with UL Lafayette was a win-win that exceeded our expectations. The interns adapted quickly to our work environment and contributed meaningfully to our development efforts. This initiative has strengthened our team's capabilities, and we look forward to future partnerships." 

The students, selected for their technical ability and innovative thinking, collaborated closely with Blue Partner’s development team and gained hands-on experience in software development, data science, machine learning, and cybersecurity. 

Student Matthew Miller said, "This project helped me better understand what computer science looks like in the real world. The ability to work alongside a start-up and see the development process firsthand was eye-opening and reassuring in what I strive to do in the future. This project taught me that adaptability is key in such a field as it is ever-changing and growing for the future."

Dr. Henry Chu, Executive Director of the Informatics Research Institute and Professor in the School of Computing and Informatics, said, “The program aims to cultivate a dynamic ecosystem where students, entrepreneurs, and tech companies can thrive and drive regional innovation.”   “This partnership offers our students the opportunity to apply the skills they have learned in the classroom to real-world projects and engage with industry leaders in a meaningful way.”

“Interning with Blue Partner was a great learning experience and a fantastic first step into the world of software development after college,” said another student, Gabriel LeJeune. “Working with the team, attending meetings, and working on pieces of the product gave me valuable insight into how digital products are built and managed in their initial stages.”

"The collaboration was facilitated by the Opportunity Machine, Acadiana's entrepreneur support organization for tech, research-driven, and innovative startups. Blue Partner is a member of the Opportunity Machine, where they have leveraged resources, including educational programs, mentorship, and technical student collaborations like these to accelerate their growth."

The internship program is just one of many ways UL Lafayette fosters innovation and entrepreneurship in the region, and it underscores the university’s commitment to providing students with the skills and opportunities needed to excel in today’s competitive job market. Through this collaboration, Blue Partner will benefit not only from the fresh perspectives and technical skills of UL Lafayette’s students but benefit from the fresh perspectives and technical skills of UL Lafayette’s students, but it will also help nurture the next generation of tech talent in Louisiana.

For more information about internship opportunities, please get in touch with Chris Kimmel, Chief Innovation Officer, Informatics Research Institute, at chris.kimmel@louisiana.edu.

Photo: Left to right: Ryan Bourque, Founder & CEO, Blue Partner; Matthew Miller, student; Sarah Brasseaux, Product Manager, Blue Partner; Gabriel LeJeune, student; Chris Kimmel, Chief Innovation Officer, Informatics Research Institute at UL Lafayette.

About the Informatics Research Institute 

A leading research institute at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette dedicated to advancing the field of informatics through interdisciplinary collaboration, innovation, and applied research. The institute brings together experts in computer science, data science, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), health informatics, and other emerging fields to tackle some of the world’s most pressing challenges. The School of Computing and Informatics offers innovative programs that prepare students for successful careers in various fields, including software development, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and more.

About Blue Partner

Blue Partner is a technology startup dedicated to transforming law enforcement operations with AI-powered solutions that streamline workflows, improve decision-making, and enhance transparency. By integrating advanced technology with a commitment to public safety, Blue Partner empowers officers to serve their communities more effectively.

About the Opportunity Machine

Opportunity Machine’s mission is to support and elevate early-stage technology, research-driven, and innovative startups. Our focus lies in nurturing tech and tech-enabled ventures through specialized business education, targeted mentorship, strategic networking opportunities, and a workspace environment designed to meet high-growth startups’ dynamic needs.

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