YSU Joins Semiconductor and Microelectronics Network

YOUNGSTOWN – Youngstown State University will collaborate with a dozen universities and colleges in a three-state region to advance work in the local emergence in the semiconductor and microelectronics industries.

The Midwest Regional Semiconductor and Microelectronics Network will leverage existing research and curricular/experiential learning programs to increase innovation in semiconductor and microelectronics, including supply chain ecosystems, said Vamsi Borra, YSU assistant professor of electrical and computer engineering and material science engineering.

“As we anticipate more semiconductor related investments in the Midwest area, this network will benefit our students and the entire Mahoning Valley,” Borra said. “YSU being part of this network gives us an edge for any potential opportunities.”

Participation in the network comes just a week after YSU and Hon Hai Technology Group (Foxconn) announced a partnership to design and launch a national electric vehicle workforce training and innovation center, which will help build and scale a sustainable workforce for the emerging EV industry here and across the nation.

This new network was also formed due to Intel Corp.’s decision to build a $20 billion computer chip facility east of Columbus, a project that will generate 7,000 construction jobs, followed by 3,000 long-term jobs in manufacturing and engineering.

“Our membership in this network is yet another indicator of YSU’s commitment to ensuring our region’s leading role in developing the trained, talented workforce needed for 21st century manufacturing,” said YSU President Jim Tressel.

YSU will join Ohio State University, Purdue University, University of Michigan, University of Notre Dame, Michigan State University, University of Cincinnati, Case Western Reserve University, Columbus State Community College, Lorain County Community College, Sinclair Community College, University of Dayton and Wright State University in the collaborative effort.

Those involved will initially develop an information-sharing platform to make it easier to identify expertise, equipment, facilities and curricular programs with the goal of facilitating joint programming, funding, research and outreach activities across the network.

Copyright 2024 The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.