What's New with the IBE Major?
The Interdisciplinary Business with Engineering Studies program continues to prepare students for careers at the intersection of business and technology. This year brought important curriculum updates, strong student outcomes, and increased industry engagement. The first curriculum revision since the program’s 2008 launch was implemented this fall. Updates include new course options in data analytics and Python programming—skills in high demand across industries. Spring graduates achieved 100 percent placement, primarily in western Pennsylvania, with positions also in Ohio and North Carolina.
Professional development remained a priority. The Fourth Annual IBE Day on October 23 featured an alumni panel sharing career insights and advice for students. Johnson Controls also presented virtually to the capstone course, introducing the company’s Early Career Program. Industry partners provided opportunities with eight internships and twelve full-time roles for IBE majors to apply for in recent months.
This year’s capstone course includes six project teams, with one exploring artificial intelligence as a decision-making tool. The IBE Industry Advisory Board met in May to discuss AI related to the major, offering guidance on future skill development. If you have a project proposal to share for next year, please contact me at [email protected].
Special thanks to Jaheim Everage, our student IBE Club president, for coordinating the content of this newsletter. Enjoy!
Carol Putman, Department Chair, Management and Interdisciplinary Programs
Alumni Spotlights
Britney Shaw '24
Britney Shaw, IBE graduate, is an engineer at Zurn Elkay Water Solutions. She was hired for the position after interning with the company in the summer of 2023.
What was the one thing that surprised you in your role after graduation?
Because I interned with Zurn Elkay, there weren’t a lot of big surprises. My biggest reminder was that I was not going to know everything about this job and the projects that came with it, so I needed to ask for help and use the resources available to me—something I didn’t always take advantage of when I was in school.
How did you find your current job?
I found my internship and current job through Behrend’s 2023 spring Career Fair. I researched the companies, looking for those interested in my skill set. I also applied to the internship on my own before speaking with them at the Career Fair, which they appreciated because it showed initiative.
What is your typical workday?
Typically, I start by doing any documentation that needs to be completed—checking drawings/models, performing calculations, and reviewing research and development for the project. A big plus for me is being able to go out to our Hydro Lab to test ideas and work hands-on with my projects whenever I need to verify a theory or design concept.
How did you choose IBE and what module?
I was torn between business and engineering when choosing a major and initially selected Mechanical Engineering Technology. After my freshman year, I realized it wasn’t the right fit. Going back to that decision between business and engineering, IBE was brought to my attention. Getting the best of both worlds was a no-brainer. Since I’ve always enjoyed hands-on work and critical thinking about how things operate, I chose the Design and Manufacturing module.
What is your advice for current IBE students?
“Embrace the suck.” Something my dad told me when I started college. Classes, exams, and college life can be hard—but you have to do it, so you might as well do it with a positive attitude and try your best. Four years seems like a long time, until it’s over, and trust me, one day you’ll miss it.
Matthew King ’24
Matthew graduated with dual degrees in IBE and Project and Supply Chain Management. He is a manufacturing engineer at PSNERGY, an Erie-based tech company, designing IoT technology. PSNERGY is a lean team of 20 employees that develops and implements combustion solutions.
What was the one thing that surprised you in your role after graduation?
During the first year—and even a little bit today—I struggled with imposter syndrome. It was difficult to get used to suggesting business-improvement ideas to vice presidents and owners at such a young age. Thankfully, my higher-ups did a great job communicating that I was hired because they believe my input and perspective will help grow the business. Trust your judgment. If you think an idea, process, or product can be improved, speak your mind—but always do so respectfully.
What major skill did you bring from your IBE major to your job?
Adaptability is the most valuable skill I brought from IBE. The needs of a business constantly evolve as technology, politics, and markets change. The challenges your company faces in 2025 may not be the same ones in 2029. It’s far more valuable to have an employee who can evolve with the industry than an expert whose skills no longer align with business needs.
What was your best experience in IBE?
My Senior Capstone Project. It’s the closest your coursework gets to real-world industry experience. A sponsor entrusts your team with a project, much like an employer or customer would in industry. There are no answer keys—you rely on your knowledge, skills, and judgment to find the best outcome for the situation and stakeholders.
What is your advice for current IBE students?
Get comfortable being uncomfortable. In any business, there will be new projects, customer requirements, or technologies that need to be integrated. Thanks to the well-rounded nature of IBE, you are the perfect candidate to pick up new information quickly and step into unfamiliar areas with confidence. Imagine your company sells widgets, and your biggest customer offers to pay double if you can paint them green. Your business has never had a paint process—but someone needs to learn it fast. Be that person. Dive into the unknown, learn what’s needed, and make it happen.
Student Spotlights
Jaheim Everage ’26
Jaheim is a senior majoring in Interdisciplinary Business with Engineering Studies (IBE) with minors in Technical Sales and Project and Supply Chain Management, and a certificate in Enterprise Resource Planning with SAP. He serves as president of the IBE Club, is a Business Ambassador, and is a student leader on the Erie Insurance AI Expansion capstone project, which uses data analytics and artificial intelligence to support business growth strategies.
What inspired you to attend Penn State Behrend, and how did you choose your major?
Originally, I was a Mechanical Engineering Technology (MET) major, but after talking to a friend in the IBE program, I realized the IBE major aligned perfectly with my goals. My friend explained that the major combines business and engineering to prepare you for the technical and strategic sides of industry. I switched majors and transferred my MET credits into the Manufacturing and Design module—and it’s been one of the best decisions I’ve made. The IBE program fits my interests in technology, leadership, and innovation while offering a hands-on learning environment, leadership opportunities, and a close-knit community that pushes you to grow.
How have you grown or developed since starting at Behrend?
I’ve become more confident in leadership and collaboration. Serving as president of the IBE Club taught me how to organize events, build partnerships, and inspire others to get involved. Through my coursework and roles, I’ve developed stronger communication, project management, and analytical skills—especially by using tools like SAP, Python, and AI systems. I’ve also learned how to balance technical knowledge with business strategy, which has shaped how I approach complex problems.
What are your aspirations or goals after graduation?
After graduation, I plan to begin my career as a sales engineer. Long-term, I want to become a supply chain manager and eventually start my own consulting firm focused on innovation and business transformation. My time at Behrend has prepared me to step into the professional world with both confidence and curiosity about what comes next.
Madilyn Boyer ’25
Madilyn, who is from Pittsburgh, is majoring in Interdisciplinary Business with Engineering Studies (IBE). After graduation, she hopes to begin her career as an applications specialist, with a long-term goal of transitioning into outside sales.
How did you choose your major and module?
When I first came to Behrend, I was a Biology major and quickly realized it wasn’t the right path for me. After talking with a friend in the IBE program, I decided to make the switch, and it turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve made. When it came time to choose my module, I spent a lot of time discussing my options with my dad and ultimately decided on Supply Chain, which has been a great fit for my interests and career goals.
What has been your best experience?
Working on team-based projects that combine both the business and engineering sides of the program. It’s incredibly rewarding to see how these two areas come together to solve real-world problems. I’m also very grateful for the people I’ve met along the way and the amazing support I’ve received from my adviser, Carol Putman. She made my transition from Biology to IBE smooth and stress-free, and I truly appreciate the guidance she’s given me throughout my journey.
What activities are you involved in outside of class?
I am on the Penn State Behrend Women’s Basketball Team, which has allowed me to demonstrate my commitment, discipline, and teamwork skills both on and off the court. I take pride in my strong work ethic and strive to bring the same level of focus, determination, and dedication to every project I take on.
What is your advice for current IBE students?
My advice is to really take advantage of how unique this program is. IBE gives you the chance to develop both your technical and business skills, which is something that sets you apart in the professional world. I would also say don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone—try new classes, connect with people from different backgrounds, and make the most out of your professors and peers!
IBE Club Update
The rebranding of NOBE to the IBE Club is now officially complete, marking a new chapter for the organization. This transition reflects the interdisciplinary nature of the IBE major and the club’s mission to prepare students for careers that integrate business, engineering, and innovation. Under the leadership of President Jaheim Everage, the IBE Club is excited to begin hosting meaningful events that connect students with peers, faculty, and industry professionals.
Recent Events
The club hosted a Speed Networking Event, which provided the opportunity to meet professors, alumni, and industry professionals. The event encouraged students to build connections, exchange insights, and gain a deeper understanding of the possible career paths.
Upcoming Events
The IBE Club also planned several new initiatives for the semester:
- A Guest Speaker Series, featuring professionals who will share their experiences and lessons learned from working in industry.
- Hands-on Workshops designed to help students apply classroom concepts to real-world business and technical challenges.
- Collaborative events with other business organizations to strengthen professional development and encourage interdisciplinary engagement.
Club Goals
Our goals for this academic year are to:
- Build a stronger sense of community among IBE majors through collaboration and shared experiences.
- Provide career development opportunities that bridge classroom learning with real-world practice.
- Partner with faculty, alumni, and industry representatives to connect students with mentorship and professional insight.
- Encourage cross-disciplinary learning and teamwork by collaborating with other student organizations within the Black School of Business.
- Promote the IBE program as one of the most innovative and career-ready majors at Penn State Behrend.