Contact: Carl Smith

STARKVILLE, Miss.—Kimberly Shiyou, a senior chemical engineering major from Kiln, is the recipient of the 2022 Epting/Mathews Co-Op Student of the Year Award.

The award is presented by the Mississippi State Career Center’s Cooperative Education Program (CEP) each October and recognizes one outstanding co-op student for their academic excellence, exhibited professionalism in the workplace and leadership in their respective organizations. The recipient receives a scholarship provided by program sponsors.

Shiyou, who serves as a CEP ambassador, recently completed a four-term co-op with Tronox, an international producer of titanium dioxide and inorganic chemicals, at the company’s plant in Hamilton. There, she served as a process controls engineer and assisted with a variety of projects, including chlorination and treatment automation. Shiyou also led a capital project aimed at replacing pumps, which is estimated to save approximately $50,000 per year.

“I was able to learn so many great tools that apply to my classes, as well as some life lessons that I can refer to when I need them,” she said.

In addition to pursuing a chemical engineering degree, Shiyou is also minoring in mathematics. She has served as an ambassador, social media coordinator and photographer for the American Institute of Chemical Engineers and is also active in the Society of Women Engineers, where she has served as a chemical engineering departmental officer and public relations officer.

For more information about the CEP, visit www.career.msstate.edu/coop.

MSU is Mississippi’s leading university, available online at www.msstate.edu.