Jennifer Linvill, director of workforce needs for the Scalable Asymmetric Lifecycle Engagement (SCALE) program, emphasized the urgent need to align university training with industry demands as the U.S. Department of Defense invests $19 million in expanding SCALE’s efforts.
“Understanding the most current technical and professional workforce skills in microelectronics is imperative for SCALE universities to fully develop students to meet those specialized workforce needs,” said Linvill, an assistant professor in Purdue’s Department of Technology Leadership and Innovation, as reported by Southern Indiana Business Report.
The funding supports research and training in radiation-hardened microelectronics, trusted AI, and workforce expansion, with $3.8 million for Purdue, $5 million for Indiana University, and $1.6 million for Vanderbilt University. SCALE, managed by Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division, now includes 19 universities and 48 industry and government partners.
To broaden the talent pipeline, SCALE is adding Morgan State University, the University of Tulsa, and the Microelectronics Security Training Center at the University of Florida, increasing access for underrepresented students and expanding expertise in key semiconductor technologies.
With microelectronics demand up 26% in 2021 and U.S. chip manufacturing at just 12% of global production, SCALE is working to close a critical talent gap.
“The expectation is for major workforce shortages if we do nothing,” said SCALE director Peter Bermel. “To meet CHIPS Act goals, we need a deep pool of talented, motivated people.”
By adapting curricula, research, and training to industry needs, SCALE aims to ensure the U.S. remains competitive in microelectronics manufacturing and innovation.