If you are curious about the expanding field of microchip manufacturing, Kent State University is offering two free micro-credential courses this spring.

The course is offered to high school juniors and seniors, as well as industry professionals, fresh starters, educators, upskillers, reskillers and those excited about the world of semiconductors.

The courses taught will be Introduction to Semiconductor Devices and Sand to Silicon, which will primarily be online with one planned in-person lab during the semester.

According to Associate Professor Flavia P.N. Inbanthan, Ph.D., electrical engineering technology, Trumbull Campus, the program will help learners launch careers in the high-tech manufacturing field and introduce them to local industry experts.

"We are working with many of the new and existing businesses around Northeast Ohio," says Inbanthan.

She continues, "This is a growing industry with plenty of need and we hope many in the community will take advantage."

The Introduction to Semiconductor Devices course explores the evolution of the semiconductor industry and the processes for developing modern digital and smart electronics.

Oxford Languages defines a semiconductor as a solid substance that has a conductivity between that of an insulator and that of most metals. According to Oxford Languages, devices made of semiconductors are essential components to most electronic circuits.

The Sand to Silicon course will teach students how sand is transformed into microchips and the importance it has for the automated and digital world.

Inbanthan states that learners can complete the courses at their own pace. 

 "They will be required to visit the cleanroom lab facility once during the course period to conduct one experiment per micro-credential," says Inbanthan.

Both courses take under 20 hours and can be completed concurrently.

While the lecture has no time limit, the lab must be finished by the end of the spring semester or May 9.

Once participants meet the course requirements, they will receive an electronic badge.

Kent State University offers several ways to continue in semiconductors, including additional non-credit micro-credentials, a fully funded 2025 summer intensive programs (May 27-June 30) worth six credits, two certificate programs and various associate degrees.

If you want to learn more about the two free courses or other semiconductor programs, you can check out Kent's website for additional information or to register.