Northwest Nazarene University is participating in the Pacific Intermountain Regional Node of the National Network for Microelectronics Education (NNME), a nationwide initiative designed to strengthen America’s semiconductor and microelectronics workforce. The initiative was announced nationally this week by the SEMI Foundation and the U.S. National Science Foundation.
Funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation Directorate for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships in partnership with the U.S. Department of Commerce, the NNME connects industry, education and workforce partners to prepare students for careers in the rapidly growing semiconductor and microelectronics sectors.
Led by Boise State University, the Pacific Intermountain Regional Node serves Idaho, Washington, Oregon, Montana, Utah, Colorado, Nevada, Northern California and Hawaii. NNU joins a nationwide network of more than 325 organizations working together to expand workforce pathways and prepare the next generation of talent for careers in microelectronics and advanced manufacturing.
As part of the initiative, Northwest Nazarene University will receive approximately $80,000 during the first year to support undergraduate student research, host a one-day semiconductor camp for high school students from across the Treasure Valley and develop educational resources that will be shared across participating organizations throughout the region.
“This opportunity allows NNU to expand hands-on research experiences for our students while introducing local high school students to one of the fastest-growing industries in Idaho and the nation,” said Dan Lawrence, Professor of Physics and Engineering.
At NNU, funding from the initiative will support:
- Undergraduate student research opportunities in semiconductor and microelectronics-related fields
- A one-day semiconductor camp introducing Treasure Valley high school students to semiconductor careers and technology
- Curriculum development efforts that will contribute to a shared educational hub used across the Pacific Intermountain region
- Collaboration with regional education, industry and workforce partners to strengthen talent pathways in Idaho
The initiative comes at a time of significant growth within the semiconductor industry nationwide. According to a recent analysis cited by the SEMI Foundation, the United States is projected to face a shortage of approximately 127,000 to 157,000 semiconductor and microelectronics workers by 2030.
“NNU has a long history of preparing students to serve and lead in their professions,” said Lawrence. “By participating in this initiative, we can help meet workforce needs while providing meaningful opportunities for students to engage in research, innovation and real-world problem solving.”
The National Network for Microelectronics Education was established to help address workforce shortages through a coordinated national strategy focused on expanding awareness of semiconductor careers, increasing workforce readiness and connecting learners directly to employment opportunities across the semiconductor ecosystem.
For Northwest Nazarene University, participation in the initiative aligns with its commitment to preparing students for meaningful careers through hands-on learning, faculty mentorship and real-world research experiences.
For more information about Northwest Nazarene University’s programs in science, engineering and technology, visit Northwest Nazarene University.
