妻友社区 at Trumbull utilized an Ohio Department of Higher Education (ODHE) Super RAPIDS grant to add a state-of-the-art lab for its electrical/electronic engineering technology program.
One of the most significant features added to the lab is a photolithography machine. The Microwriter ML3 Pro Direct Write photolithography machine is a key tool used in microelectronics and semiconductor manufacturing to transfer microscopic patterns onto silicon wafers, which are used to make integrated circuits (IC) or chips for smartphones, computer devices, electric vehicles and other smart systems.
In addition, Kent State Trumbull allotted $277,000 to procure additional supportive equipment including a vacuum systems training module and furnaces, as well as a simulated cleanroom.
According to Flavia Inbanathan, Ph.D., associate professor in the electrical engineering technology program, the new lab brings vibrancy to the growing program.
"This lab is dedicated to providing undergraduate students with a hands-on, high-tech experience using cutting-edge technology. We aim to meet the needs in our community and around Ohio for this growing industry," she said. "This lab is dedicated to provide hands-on learning experiences and training to undergraduate students in the associate degree program and semiconductor certificate programs. Students will have wonderful opportunities to gain a high-tech manufacturing experience pertaining to the current cutting-edge IC technology."
Per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of semiconductor processing technicians is expected to grow 13% through 2033.
"We want to create awareness and train young minds about the microelectronics and semiconductor manufacturing to meet this rapidly growing job market," Inbanathan said. "We want to train semiconductor processing technicians to meet the demands of our local workforce."
According to the Ohio Department of Education, Super RAPIDS funds are used to invest in strategic initiatives that build capacity; remove employment and training barriers for prospective and unemployed workers; develop and strengthen business-led strategies in the impacted industries; and provide local guided solutions to employment for communities in economic transition.