Idaho State University CPI Supervisor of the Semester is Marco Schoen

In addition to his teaching duties, Schoen mentors multiple CPI interns.

“The best part about my job is that I get a good balance between teaching, research and working directly with students,” Schoen said. “It is very rewarding to see my students learn more about themselves and their futures through their internship experiences.”

Recently, Schoen has been working with his CPI interns on a project to make airplane engines more efficient. During their research, Schoen and his interns have collaborated with the Chinese Academy of Science in Beijing, China, which specializes in engineering thermophysics. Schoen and his students send their calculations to Beijing where they can be tested on actual engines. The resulting data is sent back to ISU for review and additional research.

Schoen has acted as a mentor and supervisor for the CPI program since 2010, the inaugural year for the program. During his time, he has seen his student interns develop academically and personally. 

“The CPI program is more than a paid job,” Schoen said. “It has allowed my students to explore whether they want to continue into a graduate program or move directly into aeronautical engineering career. This is a great program for our students.”

Originally from Switzerland, Schoen taught at numerous schools across the United States before he settled in Pocatello in 2001. He enjoys the climate in southeastern Idaho, and in his spare time, he can be found working on his research projects.

“The CPI program continues to provide life-changing opportunities to our students, and we couldn’t do that without the amazing supervisors that participate in the program,” said Emily Jahsman, CPI program manager. “We are happy to recognize Marco with this award as he continuously provides wonderful mentorship to our students.”

Operating in its ninth year, the CPI program provides approximately 1,000 internship opportunities annually to ISU students. CPI internships provide career-related experiences to help students confirm their academic pursuits, gain valuable work experience and prepare them for life after graduation. For more information about the CPI program, visit isu.edu/career.