Finding a career path can be challenging. Our alumni are great resources for current students who are looking to get their start in the industry. Two recent computer science graduates representing Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories (SEL) visited Boise State to connect with students, share info, knowledge and opportunities about the industry and participate in the College of Engineering Career Fair.
Meet Joe Lathrop
My name is Joe Lathrop, and I graduated in December 2024. I am now an associate engineer as a part of the Engineer Rotation Program at SEL. I’m originally from Connecticut but sought a fresh start and new adventures at Boise State.
The CS department certainly provided that. Starting with my first 100-level course with Mason Vail, where I met one of my best friends and found a joy for programming, to my final 400-level course with Dr. Jain. Without those and all that came between, I’d have not found one of the best employment opportunities that existed on the market, the ERP at SEL.
I’d highly encourage current students to join clubs and be active in the CS department. Spend time downtown, get to know your professors, meet your classmates. I wish someone had told me that as a freshman.
Meet Austin Nelson
My name is Austin Nelson, and I graduated from Boise State University in Fall of 2023 with a bachelor’s degree in computer science. Shortly after, I joined Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories (SEL) as an Associate Engineer with the Engineer Rotation Program. I recently completed the program and transitioned into a full-time Software Engineer role within one of the teams I rotated through.
I’m incredibly grateful for my time in Boise State’s Computer Science department. The program opened doors to invaluable opportunities—from an internship with the Institute for Pervasive Cybersecurity, backed by the university, to the guidance and advocacy that helped me secure my current role at SEL. The experiences, challenges, and memories I gained over my 3.5 years in the program have shaped both my personal and professional journey, and I will always look back on them with appreciation.
Follow these links for more information on Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories (SEL) and the Engineer Rotation Program visit their website. For more resources on student internships and opportunities check out the Internships and Jobs section of our website.