Faculty and Staff

Dan Lamborn is returning to Idaho to serve as the executive director for the MER Institute.  He grew up in Twin Falls, ID and earned a B.S. in chemical engineering from the University of Utah.  Later, Dan then earned a PhD in chemical engineering from The Pennsylvania State University with a research project focused on superconducting thin film deposition and process modeling.

After his education, Dan started his 16 year career at Intel where he had a variety of roles and responsibilities.  These ranged from process development pathfinding and engineering, equipment design and installation, team building and supply chain management.

Jeanne Hansen joined the MER Institute from her position as the Games, Interactive Media & Mobile (GIMM) Degree Program Coordinator. She completed her BA in Business Administration with a minor in Health Care Administration from Wayland Baptist University. Additionally, she earned her MBA with a minor in Marketing from Trident International University and obtained her real estate license.

Her career background includes budget analysis, project management, department office manager, event management, building client relationships, and providing outstanding customer service.  Jeanne is a proud military veteran who served 22 years in the Air Force and retired out of Mountain Home Air Force Base, ID.

Camille Platts-McPharlin serves as the MER Institute Semiconductor for All Project Manager, ensuring streamlined workforce development opportunities at Boise State for the semiconductor industry in Idaho. Her background includes 10 years of experience in formal and informal K-12 STEM education and science communication. She earned a B.S. in Forestry from Northern Arizona University and an M.Sc. in Science Communication and Public Engagement from University of Edinburgh, Scotland. Camille has a strong drive to make STEM opportunities accessible to all.

Hailey Lynch serves as the Educational Specialist for MER Institute. She holds a BA in Environmental Studies and a minor in Biology from Boise State University. With a robust professional background in STEM education and outreach and fueled by her passion for STEM education, she adeptly designs and implements engaging activities for K-12 students. Hailey works toward the mission of introducing STEM and semiconductor materials to students of all ages and backgrounds throughout Idaho.

Taryn Fredrickson serves as the Administrative Assistant for the MER Institute, supporting budget and finances as well as running the social media platforms. She is originally from Boise, Idaho, and spent time living and working in Colorado before returning to pursue further education. Previously, Taryn worked in public education as a Spanish and English high school teacher in West Ada School District.

She received a B.A. in International Studies and Spanish from Colorado State University and a Graduate Certificate of Secondary Education from Boise State University.  Currently, she is pursuing a M.A. in Spanish at Idaho State University.

Eric Schneider is serving the MER Institute as an Encore Fellow since retiring from a 26 year career with Intel in Hillsboro where he worked on all aspects of product validation including both hardware and software.  In addition, he earned his B.S and M.S. in Computer Science from Washington State University and moved to Boise in 2020 prior to retiring from Intel in 2023.

He is passionate about expanding the semiconductor workforce by encouraging middle school and high school students to consider the career opportunities available in Idaho.  Eric collaborates with the Idaho Digital Learning Alliance (IDLA) on curriculum development for Semiconductor for All.