The Ohio State University hosts second annual SERP meeting
COLUMBUS- The Intel Semiconductor Education and Research Program for Ohio (SERP) hosted its eagerly anticipated annual meeting at The Ohio State University to kick off the second year of several three-year projects with Ohio higher education institutions to drive more qualified workers and research discovery for the growing semiconductor industry.
More than 250 faculty members, staff, and students from 80 distinguished universities and community colleges across Ohio attended the meeting. They provided updates on the eight SERP projects that are being funded by Intel. The company is investing more than $20 billion in building two cutting-edge chip factories in Ohio, aimed at increasing semiconductor production to meet growing demand. These factories will not only support Intel's innovative product lineup but also cater to foundry customers. Spanning 1,000 acres in Licking County, near Columbus, the site has the capacity to host up to eight chip factories along with supporting operations and ecosystem partners.
“This program is designed to help ensure that Ohio’s workforce is prepared to meet the future workforce demands.” Said Jim Evers, Intel Vice President and Factory Manager. “The industry is anticipating the creation of 115,000 new jobs by the end of the decade, with a potential shortage of 67,000 employees, and it’s remarkable the unity we’re witnessing as our higher education institution, industry leaders, and communities across the great state of Ohio are coming together to bridge this critical workforce gap.”
Eight leading institutions received $17.7 million in SERP funding over three years as part of Intel's $50 million commitment to Ohio higher education institutions over the next decade. Ohio State leads two of these initiatives: Dr. Steve Ringel, Institute for Materials Research executive director and associate vice president at Ohio State, leads the Center for Advanced Semiconductor Fabrication Research and Education (CAFE), which received $3 million in funding. This interdisciplinary education and research center is advancing semiconductor fabrication and the development of next-generation device technologies while also developing experiential learning frameworks for graduate and undergraduate students.
In collaboration with Intel, CAFE has three focused research programs: 2D Semiconductor Devices, III-Nitride Devices for Si IC Platform, and Photonic Devices and Integration. Currently, a team comprising 11 graduate students, three postdocs, and two undergraduates is actively involved in these research efforts alongside faculty members. Ohio State's partners in this initiative include Ohio University, University of Cincinnati, Central State University, Wilberforce University, Denison University, Kenyon College, Oberlin College, Ohio Wesleyan University, and the College of Wooster.
Ayanna Howard, dean of the College of Engineering at Ohio State leads the Ohio Partnership for a Diverse and Inclusive Semiconductor Ecosystem and Workforce, which received $1.5 million in funding. This network of public and private universities, colleges, and career technical centers, including HBCUs, is establishing a framework for the next phase of the semiconductor educational ecosystem. By the end of the three-year project, this will include at least 20 modules, 20 new or revised courses, five certificate programs and degrees. It will also award 200 certificates, 425 bachelor’s degrees, and 200 advanced degrees in which students have semiconductor knowledge and competencies.
These opportunities encompass signal processing, where students will develop skills in linear systems, Fourier series, and sampling. Additionally, a minor and embedded certificate in semiconductor devices will cover advanced semiconductor physics, electronic and optical properties, and emerging device principles.
Ohio State graduate students in engineering, math, and physical sciences have the option to pursue embedded certificates in semiconductor devices, fabrication technology, or optoelectronics. These certificates delve into topics like advanced semiconductor physics, electronic/optical properties, VLSI circuit manufacturing, and advanced optical properties in semiconductor devices.
“As we enter year two of these projects, we are delivering great progress together,” said Peter Mohler, Ohio State University Acting President. “New curriculum has been developed and is being implemented at our two- and four-year institutions. We are building new pathways for Ohioans of all ages to access the family-sustaining jobs Intel and the semiconductor industry is bringing to the state.”
Columbus State Community College developed the industry's inaugural one-year semiconductor technician certificate program, which is stackable, shareable, and transferable. Launching in 2023-24, it aims to fortify the talent pipeline. Collaborating institutions encompass Columbus State Community College, Marion Technical College, Rhodes State College, North Central State College, Central Ohio Technical College, Clark State, Northwestern State, Stark State, Zane State, Owens Community College, and Lorian Community College. The certificate comprises three newly created courses closely aligned with Intel's specified minimum technical skills for entry-level technicians.
“This convening was important to continue the collaboration with all of the intuitions across the state of Ohio,” said Scott McLemore, Executive in Residence at Columbus State Community College. “We are committed to building that talent pipeline for the semiconductor industry.”
Lamesha Caldwell, a senior at Kent State University, participated in the SERP program over the summer. The eight-week program included clean room operations, photolithography and how to develop transistors.
“This gives me a lot of information on where my degree will be applicable in this job Market,” Caldwell said. “I would encourage anyone who enjoys working with their hands to look into this field. It might be for you.”