Nine students spent part of their summer at 5XÉçÇø at Trumbull learning the science behind the tiny chips that power everything from smartphones and automobiles to medical devices and artificial intelligence.
The 2026 Semiconductor Pathways program provided high school and college students with an introduction to semiconductor fabrication and advanced manufacturing through classroom instruction, laboratory experiences and hands-on learning.
The foundational track included nine participants, ranging from juniors and seniors at the Trumbull Career and Technical Center, recent TCTC graduates and one Kent State Trumbull Electrical/Electronic Engineering Technology student.
Throughout the program, students explored how integrated circuits are fabricated by patterning designs onto silicon wafers at the micrometer scale. They also learned key manufacturing processes used throughout the semiconductor industry while developing practical skills in troubleshooting vacuum systems and operating equipment commonly found in advanced manufacturing environments.
The curriculum combined online classroom instruction with in-person laboratory experiments, virtual reality simulations and cleanroom visits, giving students an immersive look at modern semiconductor production and flexibility to attend hybrid classes. Students also learned statistical process control techniques used to monitor manufacturing quality and identify process variations.
The program concluded with collaborative group projects and poster presentations that challenged students to apply what they learned to real-world manufacturing scenarios while strengthening teamwork and technical communication skills.
"The biggest takeaway was seeing students connect classroom concepts to real-world semiconductor manufacturing," said Flavia P. N. Inbanathan, Ph.D., associate professor for the electrical engineering technology program. "They developed foundational technical knowledge, gained awareness of the diverse career opportunities available in the semiconductor industry and recognized the importance of teamwork, precision and continuous learning in advanced manufacturing."
Inbanathan said the experience helped spark student interest in one of the nation's fastest-growing technology sectors, while preparing them for future education and workforce opportunities.
The program also welcomed 22 undergraduate, graduate and doctoral students participating in the Intel-sponsored Semiconductor Summer Institute on the Kent Campus. During a one-day visit to Kent State Trumbull, the students toured the campus’ semiconductor laboratory and participated in hands-on activities designed to showcase the facility's capabilities.
As demand for skilled workers in semiconductor manufacturing continues to grow, Kent State Trumbull's electrical/electronic engineering technology program is helping build a regional talent pipeline by introducing students to careers in microelectronics and advanced manufacturing, while providing hands-on experiences with industry-relevant technologies.
For more information about engineering programs at Kent State Trumbull, visit www.kent.edu/trumbull/engineering-technology-degrees-kent-state-trumbull.