Cleanroom Activity
Interact.Engage.Empower

Northwest AI Hub at UC Davis Expanding Semiconductor Workforce Development

The Northwest AI Hub at UC Davis, in partnership with local community colleges and California State Universities, is driving innovation in semiconductor education. In Summer 2024, we received 234 applications for 10 competitive internships, culminating in an eight-week hands-on experience where interns showcased their work at a poster symposium, with awards for the top three projects.

Expanding our K-12 outreach, we hosted 70 students for a CHIPS and Science Act summer camp and welcomed 15 teachers to develop new strategies, including paid high school internships with Ph.D. mentors.

We also support EEC 146A, UC Davis’ premier integrated circuit fabrication lab course, providing hands-on experience with cleanroom tools such as wet benches, photoresist spinners, mask aligners, RIE, PECVD, and e-beam evaporators, along with TCAD Silvaco simulation tools. Thanks to the Northwest AI Hub, enrollment has expanded from 36 to 61 students for Winter 2025, with plans to open the course to California State University and community college students next year.

Through these initiatives, the Northwest AI Hub at UC Davis is building the next generation of semiconductor talent, bridging academia and industry to advance the future of AI and microelectronics.

Mission

The Northwest AI Hub at UC Davis is dedicated to advancing workforce development in semiconductor manufacturing, microelectronics, and AI by providing hands-on training, internships, and research opportunities. Through partnerships with community colleges, California State Universities, K-12 schools, and industry leaders, we equip students and educators with the skills needed for careers in emerging technologies. Our initiatives include technician training, IC fabrication courses, and outreach programs that foster innovation and prepare the next generation of scientists, engineers, and technicians.

 

Vision 

We envision a highly skilled, diverse workforce at the forefront of semiconductor and AI technology. By expanding access to hands-on learning, fostering industry-academic collaborations, and inspiring K-12 students and educators, the Northwest AI Hub at UC Davis aims to shape the future of microelectronics, AI, and advanced manufacturing. Through cutting-edge education and strategic partnerships, we strive to bridge academia and industry, driving technological innovation and economic growth.

 

NW-AI-Hub Programs