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One of the nation's formidable problems is a looming shortage of scientific and engineering personnel. Semiconductor companies worldwide are facing a critical shortage of technically trained employees. This shortage is expected to continue for the foreseeable future despite the cyclical history of the industry.

In response, CNSE conducts multi-level programs that encourage science awareness in grades K-12 to help ensure the U.S. science and technology workforce of the future. One such example is our semi-annual NanoCareer Day, which introduces middle- and high-school students to the world of nanotechnology through presentations, tours and hands-on activities.

Another example is CNSE's partnership with the Semiconductor Equipment & Materials International (SEMI) association under the SEMI Workforce Development Institute, which is also designed to get children interested in, and excited about, career opportunities in the semiconductor industry.

As one of eight Institutes nationally, we are developing a new training curriculum for semiconductor equipment technician training. High school students participate in clean room experiments, team building, statistics and measurement; learn how doping can effect conductivity; demonstrate doping in manufacturing silicon wafers and patterning by photolithography and etch; learn about resistors, capacitors, diodes and transistors, gates, digital logic and Boolean addition. In addition, students prepare for the real world with behavioral interviewing, industry jobs, employee presentations, and practice interviews. Graduation can lead to scholarships, certificates and stipends.

CNSE brochure