As the U.S. ramps up its domestic semiconductor manufacturing capacity, a strong domestic microelectronics industry workforce is needed.  To meet this need, the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) is supporting the development of new experiential learning programs that will expand the pool of qualified engineers and students pursuing careers in microelectronics.

As a recipient of a grant from NSF’s ExLENT Program, the University of Maryland, College Park (UMD) is partnering with two regional community colleges (CC) — the College of Southern Maryland (CSM) and Montgomery College (MC), and regional industrial technology partners to create a new project-based, experiential learning program to accelerate career and research readiness for sophomore level community college students in microelectronics.

The program seeks to provide an experiential learning boost to community college 2nd year students who are at a critical point in their career, choosing between: transferring to a 4-year degree program, jumping into industry, or leaving the microelectronic career path. By providing hands-on experiences in both academic research, presentation skills, and a summer internship in the commercial sector, we hope to strengthen their foundation in electronics, improve their understanding of career choices, and accelerate their entry into professional career paths.