[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/dvnyn05pgqkzt.cloudfront.net\/1291\/49c77eeb9828da7e\/41256485c7e42743\/9ddd50aa-e356-49ee-8ec2-1abf6edec6a4.jpg” admin_label=”Image” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n
Advanced semiconductor testing equipment at Western Carolina University is providing students with hands-on experiences and opportunities to explore the high-demand field of semiconductor technology.<\/p>\n
Over the past year, WCU installed and began using a new Signatone semiconductor wafer probe station in the RAPID Center<\/a><\/strong>, a research and development center of the WCU College of Engineering<\/a><\/strong>. The equipment will expand academic programs and semiconductor workforce training, and be used for applied research and development.<\/p>\n \u201cWe are excited to provide\u00a0students\u00a0access to this state-of-the-art equipment that\u2019s not commonly found at the undergraduate level,\u201d said\u00a0Andy Ritenour,\u00a0associate\u00a0professor\u00a0and director of WCU\u2019s Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology Program<\/a><\/strong>. \u201cWith the national focus on reshoring semiconductor manufacturing, there\u2019s a huge deficit in the semiconductor technology workforce, including people who can perform test, validation, and product engineering.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWe hope expanding opportunities for students to work hands-on with this equipment will spark more interest in semiconductor technology and guide students\u00a0to internships, careers,\u00a0or graduate school opportunities in this high-demand field.\u201d<\/p>\n Semiconductor devices are at the heart of electronics that perform information and power processing, said Ritenour. They are integrated on computer chips, which provide a variety of functions in terms of information processing, energy management, sensing, and communications. The components typically undergo testing and validation for performance and functionality, and the wafer probe station at WCU will allow students to gain experience with electrical testing of semiconductor chips in wafer form.<\/p>\n WCU engineering students will use this equipment as part of coursework and applied research projects. WCU continues to develop a wide bandgap semiconductor curriculum in partnership with NC State University and Central Carolina Community College to help address workforce needs specifically for semiconductors used in power electronics applications. The initiative is funded by PowerAmerica, a Manufacturing USA Institute.<\/p>\n Monty Graham, interim director of the RAPID Center,\u00a0said\u00a0the\u00a0new semiconductor testing equipment\u00a0is an exciting addition that enables the\u00a0Center to do more\u00a0to serve North Carolina.<\/p>\n \u201cThis equipment adds significant unique capabilities to the RAPID Center and expands our ability to work with industry partners in our continued effort to support economic development in the region,\u201d\u00a0Graham\u00a0said.<\/p>\n