Center Manager Notes — Partner Spotlight: Scot McLemore

LinkedIn profile: Executive in Residence – Advanced Manufacturing Pathways, Columbus State Community College

Location: Columbus, Ohio, United States

Scot McLemore, MNT-EC BILT team lead

Center Manager Notes: Partner Spotlight: Scot McLemore

As part of my new monthly “Center Manager Notes” column, I want to lift up our team members  in what I’m calling “Spotlight.” We have a number of people who are often working behind the scenes and we want to bring them forward and introduce them to you.

Kicking off this series is Scot McLemore, BILT and Industry team lead here at MNT-EC. I asked him a few questions last week about his background, what he sees happening in nano based on his manufacturing experience, guiding young people, and what he loves about his work.

Background and Work

I am deeply passionate about advancing the field of manufacturing through education and strategic partnerships. With over 32 years of experience in manufacturing, spanning engineering and human resource functions, my focus has always been on technical development and talent acquisition. At Columbus State Community College, I am involved in developing pathways and programs for Advanced Manufacturing, aiming to bridge the gap between educational institutions and industry needs.

My previous roles at Honda have shaped my perspective on workforce development. I’ve led teams in talent acquisition, technical workforce development, and external workforce engagement. My strategy revolves around forming effective collaborations with educational, government, and industry partners to enhance awareness and development of manufacturing careers.

Trends in Nanotechnology and Related Technology

In the realm of advanced manufacturing, the integration of nanotechnology and its related fields is a game changer. The precision and innovation that nanotechnology brings to manufacturing processes are unparalleled. It’s not just about making things smaller; it’s about making them smarter and more efficient. This technology’s influence spans various sectors, including automotive, where I’ve spent a significant part of my career. The future of manufacturing is being reshaped by nanotechnology, leading to more sustainable, efficient, and advanced production methods.

Advice for Young People Going to College

My advice to young individuals heading to college is to remain open and curious about the ever-evolving field of manufacturing, especially with the integration of advanced technologies like nanotechnology. The industry is moving towards a future where technical skills are fused with innovative thinking. Embrace the changes and look for educational pathways that offer practical, hands-on experience in conjunction with theoretical knowledge.

What I Love Best About My Work

In working with MNT-EC, what I love the most is expanding my professional network through working with intelligent and experienced experts in micro- and nanotechnology and learning about a new exciting area of technology that builds on my previous experience and knowledge.

Want to talk more about Nano? Get in touch with me. Are you in industry and want to get involved, reach out to myself or Scot McLemore.

Thanks,

Billie

Director’s Message — Celebrating Student Success: Stories

Over the last four years, the Micro Nano Technology Education Center (MNT-EC) and its partners have dedicated themselves to advancing the nanotechnology field through comprehensive educational programs. At its core, MNT-EC’s mission revolves around nurturing the next generation of nano professionals, focusing on students from community colleges. 

NOTE: Don’t miss the video at end of post!

Highlighting Student Achievements 

MNT-EC’s success is highlighted by its vibrant student programs and achievements.

  • Over 100 student interns in the Micro Nano Technology Collaborative Undergraduate Research Network (MNT-CURN)
  • Four Barry Goldwater Scholars
  • Winners of the American Association of Community Colleges Innovation Challenge
  • Winner best chemistry poster at the Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science 
  • Over 50 community college published authors in peer reviewed journals

MNT-CURN Research Students 

The MNT-CURN program showcases the real-world value and impact of student research internships. Through MNT-CURN, students engage in cutting-edge research, contributing valuable insights and innovations to nanotechnology. The program highlights MNT-EC’s commitment to providing practical, hands-on research experiences that prepare students for rewarding careers.

Goldwater Scholars 

Among its accolades, MNT-EC celebrates the achievements of students awarded the Barry Goldwater Scholarship. This prestigious scholarship is a testament to the high caliber of students MNT-EC nurtures, recognizing their potential to contribute significantly to mathematics, natural sciences, and engineering research. 

Take, for example, the story of four dedicated MNT-CURN students, Rachael Orkin, Celina Yu, Janet Teng, and Sophia Barber; plus a MNT-CURN student mentor Justice Robinson, who were awarded the Barry Goldwater Scholarship. This scholarship is a nod to their outstanding potential in STEM fields, recognizing their innovative research and academic dedication. 

AACC Challenge Winners 

MNT-EC’s students have also distinguished themselves in the AACC Challenges, demonstrating their problem-solving prowess and innovative thinking. These victories highlight the students’ talents and the quality of education and mentorship provided by MNT-EC. It’s a recognition of how the center’s programs are increasingly aligned with the industry’s needs and challenges.

SACNAS 

Cal Poly student and Pasadena City College alum Tan Nguyen recently garnered the Best Poster Presentation Award in the General Chemistry Category at the 2023 Society for the Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS) National Diversity in STEM Conference held in Portland, Oregon.

MNT-EC’s alums are emerging as nanotechnology leaders, mentoring new generations and enriching the field with their innovations. As we look forward, MNT-EC is committed to broadening its educational programs and research initiatives, aiming not only to keep pace with the rapid advancements in nanotechnology but also to foster industry growth and workforce development. 

We want to celebrate the achievements of our dozens of students across our many partner institutions, whose successes in initiatives like MNT-CURN, Goldwater Scholars, and various other programs underscore MNT-EC’s vital role in elevating nanotechnology education and setting new benchmarks for excellence. We also would like to invite our community college partners to participate in MNT-EC student initiatives to support your students. Ultimately, MNT-EC wants to provide community college students a chance to achieve outcomes that will support their advancement into MNT industry jobs and better prepare them for future education and workforce needs. Email me to learn more.

MNT-CURN student / mentor perspective