A computer science major and business minor, Iddlings also works at BioShell, an Oregon-based biodegradable products company, where he helped develop sustainable tableware for the Lake Oswego School District.
Inside Portland State sat down with him to talk about being an innovator in the workplace while still in school.
IPS: Can you start by telling us a little about the work you’re doing at BioShell?
Iddlings: At BioShell, I started in IT and gradually expanded into operations and business-to-business sales.
The company’s focus on biodegradable products stood out to me because it combines practical business needs with meaningful environmental impact, which aligned well with both my academic interests and professional goals.
It’s been a great way to apply my coursework to real world business and technical challenges.
IPS: One of these real world applications was in developing biodegradable tableware for the Lake Oswego School District, which has received media attention. What role did you play in that project?
Iddlings: Lake Oswego School District has been a customer I’ve worked closely with for over three years. My role in the project was consultative and relationship-driven, working directly with the Nutrition Services Director to identify alternatives to single-use plastic.
When I first introduced the idea of switching from plastic to wooden utensils, it aligned with conversations he was already having at the district level. From there, I helped source and implement a cost-effective solution that met both operational needs and sustainability goals.
IPS: Why was the project meaningful to you?
Iddlings: It went beyond a product change, it became a tangible way to reduce plastic waste while also creating a teachable moment for students about sustainable alternatives and environmental impact.
ISP: How did it feel to see work you contributed to showing up in the local news — and knowing it’s having a tangible environmental impact?
Iddlings: It was rewarding to see the project receive media attention, but even more meaningful to know it was creating tangible environmental impact in local schools. It reinforced how applied, real-world work can lead to visible results.
IPS: What’s it been like applying what you’re learning at PSU in real time — bringing classroom ideas straight into a workplace setting?
Iddlings: It has been incredibly valuable. Whether it’s using structured problem-solving from computer science or communication and strategy from business courses, I’m able to implement ideas in real time and see their impact.
That immediate application has accelerated my learning and helped bridge the gap between theory and practice, making my experience at PSU especially relevant to my professional growth.
IPS: In what ways do you think your experience at PSU helped you land a professional position before graduating?
Iddlings: PSU emphasizes applied learning and real-world problem solving. My coursework gave me the technical foundation and business perspective needed to step into meaningful responsibilities quickly.
Just as importantly, the experience helped me communicate confidently with leadership and customers, which made it easier to demonstrate value early on and earn trust within the organization.
IPS: You’re juggling a computer science major, a business minor and a professional role — all before graduation. How has PSU’s structure supported you in balancing school with work and other commitments?
Iddlings: The flexibility in course scheduling, combined with faculty who understand and value real-world experience, made it possible to manage a demanding major and a business minor while working full-time.
IPS: Looking ahead, how do you hope to continue combining technology, business and sustainability in your career?
Iddlings: I hope to continue building solutions that are both operationally effective and environmentally responsible.
Long term, I want to keep applying technical skills within business contexts where sustainability isn’t just a side initiative, but a core part of how companies operate and create value.
IPS: What advice would you give to other PSU students who want to gain real-world experience or pursue meaningful work while still in school?
Iddlings: I’d encourage students to be proactive and open to opportunities, even if they don’t fit a traditional path at first. Some of the most meaningful experiences come from starting conversations, building relationships and being willing to take on responsibility early.
Building real-world experience while in school helps you learn faster, build confidence and stand out professionally.
Staying open, proactive and willing to grow has been key for me.