Maximize Your 2024 ATE PI Conference Experience

ATE PI Conference 2024 Project Center Map including Hawaii and American Samoa.
NSF ATE Centers and Projects (listed on ATE Central). Map not captured to scale, clearly, but adjusted to visually capture the teams in Hawaii and American Samoa!

As many within MNT-EC prepare for the 31st National ATE PI (Principal Investigators) Conference (October 23-25, 2024 in Washington, D.C.), here is some guidance to help you make the most of this invaluable event. With plenty of incredible sessions, speakers, and networking opportunities, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed.

First, if you haven’t already done so, make sure you register this week — Registration deadline is September 26, 2024.

Second, ATE PI hosts its Conference Orientation Webinar on October 10th to officially help you get oriented and prepared. Also, check out this ATE Central post, for a solid overview: 2024 ATE PI Conference: ATE for the Future (that cool map of projects and centers is linked from their post).

Community-Based Blog Post

As you attend various sessions, participate in workshops, and network, write down (or record a voice memo into your smartphone) some of your insights and ideas to share with us. We’re planning a community-based blog post after the conference, and your contributions will help build a shared pool of knowledge that benefits everyone in our ATE community. Save your key takeaways and get them to us during or after the event. You can catch Billie Copley at the event and share your thoughts with her, or email directly to: TJ at MicroNanoEducation dot Org. We plan to publish this post about two weeks after the ATE PI Conference.

Here are a few key areas we are interested to hear about:

1. Innovative Approaches: Look for sessions where speakers share new teaching techniques, creative uses of technology, or innovative approaches to workforce training. These insights could spark fresh ideas for your own programs.

2. Real-world Applications: Listen for stories that connect ATE projects to real-world impact—whether it’s helping local industries thrive or boosting student success. For sure, these are stories and case study types of ideas we want to hear about, from you and colleagues.

3. Collaborative Success Stories: Many ATE initiatives succeed because of partnerships between educational institutions and industry. Look for examples of how collaboration has led to meaningful outcomes, and consider how your (and our) partnerships can benefit from similar strategies.

4. Emerging Trends: What new technologies or skills are gaining momentum in your field? Be sure to take note of any emerging trends that could shape the future of workforce development in your industry.

5. Lessons in Adaptability: Change is ever-present, and that means we have to adapt. If you hear any stories about overcoming challenges, especially in our fast-moving world, jot them down—they can offer inspiration and solutions for others in our MNT-EC / LinkedIn community.

Share with Us Post-Conference! 

No matter what sessions, panels, or informal conversations you are part of, capture those ideas, insights, and inspiration we can use in the 2024-2025 school year. Please reach out to share what you’ve learned. Let’s work toward an authentic, more connected network of professionals advancing technological education. In plain language, let’s lift one another up!

Who Is Presenting from MNT-EC?

ATE PI 2024 Conference from MNT-EC Team and Partners

Here are a few shout-outs to our team and partners for sessions they are giving at ATE PI 2024. Keep us posted if you are also presenting and we’ll list you here. 

Columbus State Community College will have a spotlight session on “Aligning Strategies to Support Advanced Technological Education Talent Demand” by Shane Kirby and Michell Ward from CSCC. 

Date: Thursday, October 24 at 1:30 – 2:15 p.m. (Eastern). Room: Diplomat

Shout out to Scot McLemore ǀ Executive in Residence at CSCC for sharing. Advanced Manufacturing Pathways at Columbus State Community College.

MNT-EC Co-PI, Dr. Peter Kazarinoff, Faculty, Engineering and Engineering Technology
at Portland Community College will present a Spotlight session on “J ATE URE: Getting Community College Students & Faculty Published.”

Date: Thursday, October 24 at 1:30 – 2:15 p.m. (Eastern). Room: Empire

You can read a bit more about how this presentation came about by reading Peter’s Letter from the Editor in Volume 3, Issue 2 of the Journal of Advanced Technological Education.

Spotlight Session organized by Erika Sturgis: Panel with Marci Gale, Mason Lefler, and Tiffany Calfant

Abstract:  Explore strategies for streamlining data collection and management of student data within ATE projects in this panel discussion with representatives from three ATE projects. We’ll discuss how different projects prepare for multiple report types, including project annual reports, evaluation reports, and responding to the ATE Survey. Panelists will share methods they use to build and maintain their data collection infrastructure. Whether your project receives student data from an institutional research office or you track it yourself, everyone will find practical strategies to make reporting on students more effective.

***

ATE Connects Countdown session (new format)

Rick Vaughn presents Top 5 Strategies to Stay Nimble Amidst the Semiconductor Renaissance

Date: Thursday, October 24 at 4:15 – 4:25 p.m. (Eastern)

Room: Exhibit Hall

Rick Vaughn, Ph.D., Rio Salado College. Faculty Chair – STEM Initiatives

www.riosalado.edu/nanoknows

Spotlight Session: Strategies for Effective Nanotechnology and Microelectronics Education

Presenter(s)

  • Vishal Saravade (he/him/his) (Role: Presenter;Session Organizer)
  • Zachary R. Gray (Role: Presenter)
  • Billie Copley (Role: Presenter)
  • Nancy Louwagie (Role: Presenter)

Key Area of Session Focus: Curriculum & Educational Materials Development; Student Recruitment/Retention

Program Abstract: This session will include discussions and will answer thought-provoking questions in nanotechnology and microelectronics education. Proven and innovative strategies of outreach, student recruitment, hands-on education, remote education, content-delivery, professional development, and industry involvement will be discussed. PIs and Project Members from leading national nanotechnology, microelectronics, and remote-education centers will be the facilitators/panelists and presenters. Actions and ideas that have successfully enabled continuously improving education and workforce development in nanotechnology will be explained by the panelists.

Session: Building Global Partnerships: Advancing Quantum Workforce Education

Presenters: Mo Hasanovic, Jared Ashcroft, Grant Emmel

Date: Thursday, October 24; 3:10 – 3:40 p.m. (Eastern). Room: Cabinet

Spotlight session: How AI Is Predicted To Affect Multiple Disciplines

Presenters: Jared Ashcroft, Larry McWherter, Michele Robinson, and Antonio Delgado as panelists. Ann Beheler as facilitator. 

Date: Thursday, October 24; 930 to 10:15 AM (Eastern). Room: Palladian.

Session: Undergraduate Research as a Recruitment and Retention Strategy Within ATE

Facilitators: Jared Ashcroft, PI, MNT-EC; Ani Hakobyan, Student, MNT-CURN; Jason Spyres, CEO and Founder, Training All People (TAP)

Program Abstract
Undergraduate research is a high impact practice in recruitment and retention of students in STEM. MNT-EC has been using undergraduate research through ATE-URE and START supplement proposals to increase the participation in MNT technician training. This session will share lessons learned from the past three years of the MNT-CURN and START programs and lead a discussion on the future of MNT-EC’s undergraduate research program. Attendees will be provided strategies in developing supplement proposals that focus on training technician through research and in developing student recruitment and evaluation strategies to increase industry support, effectiveness, and sustainability of the program.

Talking Technicians Podcast Season 4

Scroll through and pick one of the 10 episodes from Season 4 of the Talking Technicians Podcast. There’s so much to learn from these technicians as Dr. Peter Kazarinoff talks through their life experiences and journey. You can also jump to the full YouTube Playlist or to the MNT-EC Talking Technicians Podcast page.

In this episode of Talking Technicians, you’ll meet Josh, a technician at Analog Devices in San Jose, California. Hear about Josh’s background, his experience working at Analog Devices, and the opportunities for growth and benefits in the industry. Josh shares his journey from starting in an automotive shop to working in the microelectronics industry, and how his education at a community college prepared him for his career. Josh emphasizes the importance of hands-on skills and communication in the field of electronics. The episode concludes with Josh’s advice for students and those looking to transition into a career as a technician.
Kendall, a technician at Indium, shares the experience working in the manufacturing industry and the journey to becoming a technician. Kendall discusses the role of Indium as a materials refiner and supplier to the electronics and semiconductor markets. Kendall describes daily tasks operating a rolling mill and the various alloys produced at Indium and also talks about the opportunities for professional growth, benefits, and work schedule at the company. Kendall highlights the importance of creativity and flexibility in the manufacturing industry and offers advice for those interested in pursuing a career as a technician.
Jamel is a Technician at Tokyo Electron, also called TEL in Hillsboro, OR outside of Portland. Jamel was part of the Vet S.T.E.P.  program that helps military service members transition into the civilian sector. Jamel talks about how the skills and practices he learned and used in the military can be transferred and employed as a technician in the semiconductor industry. 
Alberto is a Manufacturing Equipment Technician at Wolfspeed in Marcy, NY. Alberto talks about how his work in the US Air Force and the Vet S.T.E.P. program prepared him to work as a technician in the semiconductor industry. Alberto highlights how some technical skills he learned in the military are transferable to the civilian sector.  Hear about the benefits of becoming a semiconductor technician and how the Vet S.T.E.P. program works in this episode.
Stephen is a Manufacturing Equipment Technician (MET) at Intel in Hillsboro, Oregon. Stephen discusses his journey from Minneapolis to working at Intel and shares insights into his day-to-day responsibilities involving the maintenance and troubleshooting of equipment used in semiconductor manufacturing. Stephen talks about shift schedules, salary ranges, professional growth opportunities, and the importance of communication and safety in his job. Stephen also shares advice for individuals considering a career transition into the semiconductor industry.
Lincoln is a technician working in the semiconductor industry. Lincoln was in the armed services, then went to community college and enrolled in an electrical engineering technology program. He now has experience working as a technician at two different semiconductor companies in the Portland, OR area. Hear about Lincoln’s experience in this episode of Talking Technicians
Ethan is a HPM technician at Intel in Hillsboro, OR outside Portland. HPM technicians at Intel support other technicians that work at Intel. Hear about how Ethan went from working in the hospitality industry to long-term career in the semiconductor industry. Ethan talks about his work, what it feels like working in a semiconductor factory (a fab), and how he balances his studies at community college with his work as a technician.
Laury is a Senior Control Engineer at Albireo Energy in Northern Virginia. Laury is passionate about her career. In this episode here about what working in a data center is like and how you can join this exciting career. At the end of the episode, listen to what Laury has to say about encouraging women to work in technical careers. Laury’s work is inspiring.
Janaki is a Equipment Engineering Technician at Analog Devices in Beaverton, OR outside Portland. Janaki had a career in small business, but needed to make a change. Hear how Janaki transitioned to working in the semiconductor industry by enrolling in Portland Community College’s Microelectronics Program.
Michelle is a lead thin film vacuum technician at MKS Instruments at the Richardson Gratings Lab in Rochester, NY. Michelle started out working as an operator, then gained additional skills by enrolling in a vacuum technician certificate program at Normandale Community College. Hear Michelle’s story about how she took her career to the next level.

Full List as only links, no YouTube image, but takes you to the same place. 🙂

S04 E01 Michelle is a lead thin film vacuum technician at MKS Instruments
S04 E02 Janaki is a Equipment Engineering Technician at Analog Devices
S04 E03 Laury is a Senior Control Engineer at Albireo Energy
S04-E04 Ethan is a technician that supports other technicians at Intel
S04-E05 Lincoln is a technician in the semiconductor industry
S04-E06 Stephen is a Manufacturing Equipment Technician at Intel | Talking Technicians Podcast
S04 E07 Alberto is a Manufacturing Equipment Technician at Wolfspeed
S04 E08 Jamel is a Technician at TEL
S04-E09 Kendall is a Technician at Indium
S04-E10 Josh is a Technician at Analog Devices

AT3 is Paving the Pathway for Tomorrow’s Micro Nanotechnology Technicians

New logo for AT3 student technician training at MNT-EC

UPDATE: You can also follow along on our new Facebook page (give it a like, if that’s your thing) and on our MNT-EC LinkedIn page.

At MNT-EC, we are working hard to stay at the forefront of innovation, driving advancements in fields as diverse as microelectronics (think semiconductors — that chip in your smartphone), nanobiotechnology, and nanophotonics, to name a few. Yet, as the demand for skilled technicians in these areas continues to grow, there is an urgent need to equip students with the hands-on experience and industry connections that will prepare them for these high-demand roles.

To meet this opportunity, we are launching the Advanced Technology Technician Training “AT3” program to create a robust pipeline for students to transition from the classroom to the workforce, all while addressing the critical workforce shortages the industry faces today and in the near-future.

More to come, but for now, here is the program flyer you can view or download (to hopefully, hint hint, share with your students and anyone on campus or in your networks).

AT3 Flyer_Apply Now_2024-2025Download

Center Manager Notes — Partner Spotlight: Billie Copley

Billie Copley, LinkedIn Profile

  • AAS in Nanoscience technology from Dakota County Technical College;
  • BS in Project Management from Minnesota State University – Moorehead

Location: Arkansas, United States 

Billie Copley
Cat sitting on a couch or chair with paws on a rail looking at reader. Photo by Manja Vitolic on Unsplash.
Friendly Takeover Cat

Hostile Takeover: You have probably heard the term, which refers to when one business takes over another by less-than-honorable means, as most would understand.

* * *

This is a “Friendly Takeover” of MNT-EC Center Manager Billie Copley’s usual Notes column, by me, the site editor. 😂  For the past few months, Billie has written about others. The leadership team here felt it was a good time to lift up someone reluctant to be in the spotlight, pun intended. You can read the other MNT-EC “Partner Spotlights” I have linked below.

As one of the two main leaders with daily responsibility for this national center, alongside Center Director Dr. Jared Ashcroft, Billie often talks about how to reach people, lift up others associated with this grant, and highlight its work to serve students, families, educators, and the industry surrounding both.

Jared Ashcroft

“Billie Copley is the heart and soul of MNT-EC. She is responsible for keeping MNT-EC running and organizing the different focus group teams. She is a joy to work with and provides a much needed perspective on grant activities.”

Dr. Jared Ashcroft, MNT-EC Center Director

A bit of background may help you understand her service mindset: She was recently promoted to full mentor status at Mentor-Connect, exemplifying dedication and passion for nanoscience and education. Her journey to a leading mentor in Mentor-Connect showcases her commitment to fostering growth and excellence within the ATE community, specifically to educators applying for their grant funding. She also does this directly within the MNT-EC community along with Mel Cossette, Greg Kepner, and Esperanza Zenon. To learn more, head over to the MNT-EC Mentoring page.

Billie’s career in nanoscience began at Nano-Link, where she served as the Nanoscience Lab Manager at Dakota County Technical College. Under the guidance of leaders like Deb Newberry, Billie thrived in the collaborative and innovative environment that defines the ATE community. Her role at Nano-Link partly shaped her professional ethos, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, hands-on learning, and community engagement. 

During her tenure at Nano-Link, Billie managed complex projects and fostered a supportive learning environment for students. Her dedication and innovative approach to education earned her recognition and opened new growth opportunities. In 2011, Billie attended her first HI-TEC meeting, experiencing the collaborative spirit of the ATE network firsthand. In that same year, she attended ATE-PI as a student and earned a student of excellence award for her work.

“Billie Copley is the glue that holds MNT-EC together. Billie works hard to keep the team on task while preparing the annual report and balancing duties with other working group teams. She always shows her gratitude and respect for other team members.”

Greg Kepner, Co-PI MNT-EC; PI of NavigATE
Greg Kepner

When asked about her reasons for becoming a mentor, she expressed that it has always been part of her life and mindset. “I love learning from my mentors and using that knowledge daily. So, I like to give that back to other people. Not everyone is lucky enough to have a mentor, so I feel privileged to help others achieve their goals, whether writing a grant proposal, writing a paper for J ATE, or helping students navigate life. I mentor in my personal life as well. I am mentoring a young man who wants to earn his Project Management degree and take the PMP certification exam. It’s amazing to watch a person’s confidence grow under your direction. It is very fulfilling.”

Note: The Mentor-Connect initiative is led by some of the National Science Foundation Advanced Technological Education (NSF ATE) program’s most experienced and successful Principal Investigators (PIs) and mentors. They recently elevated Billie to a Full Mentor, entrusting her with projects and participants across the program.

Transitioning to her current role as Center Manager at MNT-EC, Billie brought a wealth of experience and a passion for advancing nanoscience education. Her leadership at MNT-EC has been marked by strategic project management, and her commitment to mentoring has already been mentioned. Her professional development from lab manager at Nano-Link to a key figure at MNT-EC highlights her dedication to continuous learning and her ability to adapt and thrive in dynamic and sometimes challenging environments. Billie views the ATE as more than a community; to her, it’s a vibrant support system that has been instrumental in her development.

Since her introduction to the community in 2010, Billie has benefited from its collaborative spirit and now actively contributes to helping others navigate their educational and professional paths, particularly in crafting successful grant proposals. She advises realism in project planning and understanding the constraints of time and resources to make a meaningful impact. Reflecting on her experiences, she emphasizes the importance of detail and clarity in navigating technicalities successfully.

Tiffany Kimoto

“Billie is a tremendous asset to MNT-EC. I’ve had the fortune to work with her on outreach-related activities, and Billie has been a consistent source of insight and sensibility. Her levels of organization and dedication set a high bar for all of us to aspire to.”

— Tiffany Kimoto | Executive Director | The Kavli Nanoscience Institute, Caltech 

Billie’s life is filled with creativity and adventure outside her professional roles. From gardening and woodworking to rock hunting and crystal mining, she embraces activities that involve nature and using her hands. An avid motorcyclist, Billie is rekindling her passion for riding, embracing the freedom it offers. These personal interests not only add depth to her character but also provide a unique perspective to her professional endeavors, making her a relatable figure in the ATE community.

As Billie continues her role at MNT-EC, Mentor-Connect, and within her local community, she will shape the future of many aspiring professionals and enrich the ATE community. Her story is one of continuous learning, teaching, and giving back—a true testament to the power of community and mentorship.

Reach out to Billie and the entire MNT-EC Leadership team here. 

Below are the other three Spotlights mentioned above.

Josh is a Technician at Analog Devices S04-E10 Talking Technicians

Talking Technicians Banner

Josh works as a technician at Analog Devices, where he supports the development and testing of innovative electronic components. He talks about the collaborative nature of his role, the technical problem-solving involved, and how his work directly contributes to advancements in consumer and industrial electronics. Josh emphasizes the importance of precision and creativity in meeting the demands of the industry.

Show Notes

In this episode of Talking Technicians, you’ll meet Josh, a technician at Analog Devices in San Jose, California. Hear about Josh’s background, his experience working at Analog Devices, and the opportunities for growth and benefits in the industry. Josh shares his journey from starting in an automotive shop to working in the microelectronics industry, and how his education at a community college prepared him for his career. Josh emphasizes the importance of hands-on skills and communication in the field of electronics. The episode concludes with Josh’s advice for students and those looking to transition into a career as a technician.

The Talking Technicians podcast is produced by MNT-EC, the Micro Nano Technology Education Center, through financial support from the National Science Foundation’s Advanced Technological Education grant program.

Opinions expressed on this podcast do not necessarily represent those of the National Science Foundation.

Join the conversation. If you are a working technician or know someone who is, reach out to us at info@talkingtechnicians.org.

Links from the show:

Episode Web Page: https://micronanoeducation.org/students-parents/talking-technicians-podcast/

Analog Devices: https://www.analog.com/en/index.html

This Podcast was originally published at:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/1538071/15470723-s04-e10-josh-is-a-technician-at-analog-devices

If you prefer to listen via YouTube:

 

Kendall is a Technician at Indium S04-E09 Talking Technicians

Talking Technicians Banner

Kendall is a technician at Indium, where he focuses on materials used in electronics assembly. He shares insights into the precision and care required in his work, especially when working with high-tech soldering materials. Kendall reflects on how his technical training and attention to detail ensure the production of reliable, high-quality components used in electronics worldwide.

Show Notes

Kendall, a technician at Indium, shares the experience working in the manufacturing industry and the journey to becoming a technician. Kendall discusses the role of Indium as a materials refiner and supplier to the electronics and semiconductor markets. Kendall describes daily tasks operating a rolling mill and the various alloys produced at Indium and also talks about the opportunities for professional growth, benefits, and work schedule at the company. Kendall highlights the importance of creativity and flexibility in the manufacturing industry and offers advice for those interested in pursuing a career as a technician.

The Talking Technicians podcast is produced by MNT-EC, the Micro Nano Technology Education Center, through financial support from the National Science Foundation’s Advanced Technological Education grant program.

Opinions expressed on this podcast do not necessarily represent those of the National Science Foundation.

Join the conversation. If you are a working technician or know someone who is, reach out to us at info@talkingtechnicians.org.

Links from the show:

Episode Web Page: https://micronanoeducation.org/students-parents/talking-technicians-podcast/

This Podcast was originally published at:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/1538071/15330246-s04-e09-kendall-is-a-technician-at-indium

If you prefer to listen via YouTube:

 

Jamel is a Technician at TEL S04-E08 Talking Technicians

Talking Technicians Banner

Jamel works as a technician at TEL, contributing to the manufacturing and servicing of advanced equipment used in semiconductor production. In this episode, he explains how his hands-on skills and problem-solving expertise help keep the production process efficient and reliable. Jamel also discusses the importance of continuous training and adapting to new technology in a rapidly changing industry.

Show Notes

Jamel is a Technician at Tokyo Electron, also called TEL in Hillsboro, OR outside of Portland. Jamel was part of the Vet S.T.E.P. program that helps military service members transition into the civilian sector. Jamel talks about how the skills and practices he learned and used in the military can be transferred and employed as a technician in the semiconductor industry.

The Talking Technicians podcast is produced by MNT-EC, the Micro Nano Technology Education Center, through financial support from the National Science Foundation’s Advanced Technological Education grant program.

Opinions expressed on this podcast do not necessarily represent those of the National Science Foundation.

Join the conversation. If you are a working technician or know someone who is, reach out to us at info@talkingtechnicians.org.

Links from the show:

Episode Web Page: https://micronanoeducation.org/students-parents/talking-technicians-podcast/

Jobs at TEL: https://www.tel.com/careers/

Learn more about Vet S.T.E.P.: https://video.wmht.org/video/vet-step-gap-bridging-from-military-to-microelectronics-uvqeln/

This Podcast was originally published at:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/1538071/15005377-s04-e08-jamel-is-a-technician-at-tel

If you prefer to listen via YouTube:

 

Alberto is a Manufacturing Equipment Technician at Wolfspeed S04-E07 Talking Technicians

Talking Technicians Banner

Alberto is a manufacturing equipment technician at Wolfspeed, where he specializes in the maintenance and optimization of semiconductor manufacturing tools. He discusses how his role supports the production of high-performance chips for power and energy applications. Alberto shares his career path, the technical challenges he faces daily, and the satisfaction of being part of cutting-edge technology that impacts industries worldwide.

Show Notes

Alberto is a Manufacturing Equipment Technician at Wolfspeed in Marcy, NY. Alberto talks about how his work in the US AirForce and the Vet S.T.E.P. program prepared him to work as a technician in the semiconductor industry. Aberto highlights how some technical skills he learned in the military are transferable to the civilian sector. Hear about the benefits of becoming a semiconductor technician and how the Vet S.T.E.P. program works in this episode.

The Talking Technicians podcast is produced by MNT-EC, the Micro Nano Technology Education Center, through financial support from the National Science Foundation’s Advanced Technological Education grant program.

Opinions expressed on this podcast do not necessarily represent those of the National Science Foundation.

Join the conversation. If you are a working technician or know someone who is, reach out to us at info@talkingtechnicians.org.

Links from the show:

Episode Web Page: https://micronanoeducation.org/students-parents/talking-technicians-podcast/

Jobs at Wolfspeed: https://www.wolfspeed.com/careers/

Learn more about Vet S.T.E.P. : https://video.wmht.org/video/vet-step-gap-bridging-from-military-to-microelectronics-uvqeln/

This Podcast was originally published at:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/1538071/14744943-s04-e07-alberto-is-a-manufacturing-equipment-technician-at-wolfspeed

If you prefer to listen via YouTube:

 

Celebrating Two Decades of Innovation: Student Achievements Shine at National Nanotechnology Initiative

Student Success at National Nanotechnology Initiative 20th Anniversary Symposium
Far left and right: Branden Brough (NNCO Director) and Quinn Spadola (Deputy Director). Second from right: Kathleen Rubins, NASA Astronaut. Second from left: Pasadena Community College student Nayely Rolon-Gomez is majoring in laser technology and electronics technology and responsible for Poster U5, part of MNT-CURN Cohort 2, under mentor Dr. Atilla Ozgur Cakmak at Grand Valley State University (not in photo). Image Credit: National Nanotechnology Coordination Office

In a unique convergence of minds and ideas, the 20th Anniversary of the National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI) Symposium showcased the monumental strides in nanotechnology. It spotlighted student involvement with posters describing the next wave of innovations, which MNT-EC is always keen to see.

From green technology to quantum computing, the advancements we are making in nanotechnology are solving some of our Nation’s greatest challenges.

– President Joe Biden

This quote from President Biden not only highlights the importance of the innovations being celebrated at the symposium but also sets the stage for discussing the diverse community united by their work in nanotechnology, as described in the following paragraphs. (Editor’s Note: You can download the full letter from the President at the end of this post and read the extracted full text as well.)

Uniting a Diverse Community

According to the Nano.gov website announcement, “Scientists and engineers across many fields and disciplines are united by their work at the nanoscale. Their diverse efforts have helped produce everything from faster microchips to powerful mRNA vaccines. The transformative impact of this work has been spurred by the coordination and focus on U.S. nanotechnology established by the 21st Century Nanotechnology Research and Development Act in 2003. Celebrating the NNI’s broad impact and envisioning the future, this symposium brought together voices from across the emerging technology landscape. Experts spoke on the importance of nanotechnology in quantum engineering, optics, environmental health and safety (EHS), plastics, DEIA, microelectronics, medicine, education, manufacturing, and more. Attendees included hundreds of researchers, policymakers, members of industry, educators, students, and the public – both online and in person, and conversations centered on the strategic vision for the next twenty years of the NNI.”

Student Innovators at the Forefront

Central to the event, from our perspective, was the NNI Student Poster Session, a testament to the NNI’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of nanotechnologists. There were 11 undergraduate teams, with more at the graduate/PhD level. College students from across the nation presented their research, offering fresh perspectives on challenges ranging from healthcare to environmental sustainability: 

  • Teams from the University of Maryland delved into the potential of bacterial extracellular vesicles under various conditions, underscoring the intersection of microbiology and nanotechnology.
  • The George Washington University’s exploration of bio-inspired surfaces, simulating shark skin for potential applications, highlighted the innovative spirit driving student research.
  • Contributions from Pasadena City College and Mesa Community College showcased projects on solar energy conversion and carbon chain synthesis, reflecting the broad spectrum of nanotechnology’s impact.
  • Kingsborough Community College and Baruch College students presented a review of CAR-T cell designs and nanotechnology’s efficacy in cancer therapy, showcasing the critical intersection of biomedical research and nanotechnological applications.
  • Northwest Vista College students explored the significance of finding organic compounds in Martian cave systems, illustrating the interdisciplinary nature of nanotechnology with implications for space exploration and the search for extraterrestrial life.

These presentations demonstrated the students’ ingenuity and pivotal role in advancing nanotechnology’s frontiers. Full list below.

Keynote Inspirations

The symposium shared insights from luminaries such as Dr. Arati Prabhakar, Assistant to the President for Science and Technology; Chad Mirkin, and Kathleen Rubins, who have significantly contributed to nanoscience and space exploration, respectively. Their speeches underscored the transformative potential of nanotechnology and the importance of continuous innovation and collaboration.

Looking Forward

As we celebrate the past 20 years of nanotechnology under the NNI’s guidance, the symposium served as a practical (and visionary) forum for envisioning the future. The emphasis on student involvement and the cross-disciplinary dialogue highlights the NNI’s strategic vision for the next two decades: a future where nanotechnology continues to address societal challenges, powered by the fresh perspectives and relentless curiosity of student researchers. Comprehensive and inclusive efforts like the National Nanotechnology Initiative partly inspire our Micro Nanotechnology Collaborative Undergraduate Research Network (MNT-CURN).

For college students and professors alike, the NNI 20th Anniversary Symposium was not just a reflection on past achievements but a clarion call to contribute to a future where nanotechnology remains at the forefront of solving the world’s most pressing problems.

Full list also found on the NNI website link above, but all 11 undergraduate posters summarized here:

  • (U1) University of Maryland, College Park: Study how different storage conditions affect bacterial vesicles, with implications for healthcare and biology.
  • (U2) The George Washington University: Inspired by nature, this team created shark skin-like surfaces using Glancing Angle Deposition (GLAD) to improve material designs.
  • (U3) Kingsborough Community College and Baruch College: Review of nanotechnology’s role in enhancing CAR-T cell cancer therapies, focusing on efficacy.
  • (U4) University of Maryland, College Park: This study examines the impact of temperature on storing bacterial vesicles, which is essential for medical research.
  • (U5) Pasadena City College: Research on nano-optic surfaces for more efficient solar cells / solar panels, aiming at green energy solutions.
  • (U6) Mesa Community College: Work on producing linear carbon chains, which are fundamental for the development of new materials and electronics.
  • (U7) Saint Louis University: Development of laser-driven microrobots for precise small-scale operations, applicable in various fields.
  • (U8) University of Florida: Enhancing thermoelectric properties through ball milling for better energy devices.
  • (U9) Northwest Vista College: Searching for life-essential organic compounds in Martian caves, bridging nanotech and space exploration.
  • (U10) Mercer County Community College: Utilizing neural networks to design better mRNA cancer vaccines, combining tech with healthcare.
  • (U11) University of Maryland, College Park: Investigating how tiny bacterial particles affect biofilm formation, which is relevant to medical and environmental studies.
Letter-BidenDownload

Download above or here.

Letter from President Biden
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
March 5, 2024
I send my warmest greetings to the members of the National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI)
and all those celebrating the 20th anniversary of the 21st Century Nanotechnology Research and
Development Act.

Since it was signed into law, the 21 st Century Nanotechnology Research and Development Act
has driven innovation by challenging the next generation of scientists and researchers to think
big by thinking small. From green technology to quantum computing, the advancements we are making in nanotechnology are solving some of our Nation’s greatest challenges. And by
creating a policy framework for an all of Government approach to research and development,
lowering the barrier to access advanced scientific tools, sharing diverse perspectives, supporting workforce development, and so much more, members of the NNI are helping to harness the progress we are making for good.

My Administration is building on the work of the NNI by supporting the scientific community
and promoting research and development. During my first year in office, we elevated the
Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy to a Cabinet-level position
to lead major initiatives like artificial intelligence and leverage the latest scientific advancements
to improve health outcomes for all Americans, with the help of solutions at the nanoscale. And
with support from the CHIPS and Science Act and the Inflation Reduction Act, we are investing
billions of dollars in groundbreaking research and development, including work performed by
the NNl that will help create incredible opportunities for our country and the entire world——
including the largest investment to combat climate change in history.

As we commemorate this milestone anniversary of the 21st Century Nanotechnology Research
and Development Act, may we all remain inspired by the limitless possibilities of what we can
achieve in America when we work together. I have never been more optimistic about the future
of this great Nation, in part because of the members of the NNI community who are helping to
ensure we forever remain at the forefront of scientific discovery.

Stephen is a Manufacturing Equipment Technician at Intel S04-E06 Talking Technicians

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Stephen is a manufacturing equipment technician at Intel, where he ensures that complex machinery operates at peak performance. He discusses the critical role of equipment maintenance, the problem-solving skills required, and the rewards of working in a field that drives technological progress.

Show Notes

Stephen is a Manufacturing Equipment Technician (MET) at Intel in Hillsboro, Oregon. Stephen discusses his journey from Minneapolis to working at Intel and shares insights into his day-to-day responsibilities involving the maintenance and troubleshooting of equipment used in semiconductor manufacturing. Stephen talks about shift schedules, salary ranges, professional growth opportunities, and the importance of communication and safety in his job. Stephen also shares advice for individuals considering a career transition into the semiconductor industry.

The Talking Technicians podcast is produced by MNT-EC, the Micro Nano Technology Education Center, through financial support from the National Science Foundation’s Advanced Technological Education grant program.

Opinions expressed on this podcast do not necessarily represent those of the National Science Foundation.

Join the conversation. If you are a working technician or know someone who is, reach out to us at info@talkingtechnicians.org.

Links from the show:

Episode Web Page: https://micronanoeducation.org/students-parents/talking-technicians-podcast/

Portland Community College: https://www.pcc.edu/

Jobs at Intel: https://jobs.intel.com/

This Podcast was originally published at:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/1538071/14406991-s04-e06-stephen-is-a-manufacturing-equipment-technician-at-intel

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