The National Science Foundation Experiential Learning for Emerging and Novel Technologies program awarded $1 million to a multi-institution project that will address the critical shortage of skilled plasma engineers threatening semiconductor competitiveness in the United States by creating a comprehensive training ecosystem that bridges academic preparation with industry requirements.
The project is known as PLASMA (Professional Learning and Applications in Semiconductor and Materials Advancement) and includes Fresno State, UC Merced, Cal Poly Pomona, the CSU Chancellor’s Office, STEM-NET, Muegge-Gerling and Applied Materials, Inc.
“This program will be critical for student development, and I think that’s what we need to focus on right now to prepare the students for the next generation of processes, methods and technologies,” said Dr. Sankha Banerjee, project principal investigator and professor of mechanical engineering.
The project team’s goal is to transform the Central Valley and Southern California into a semiconductor innovation corridor, and create sustainable pathways that serve both immediate industry needs and long-term national technological leadership.
Dr. Venkattraman Ayyaswamy, associate professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering at UC Merced, and Dr. Jose Millan Higuera, assistant professor of electromechanical engineering technology at Cal Poly Pomona, will serve as the project’s co-principal investigators.
Through 2028, 24 undergraduate students from Fresno State and partner institutions will complete the program annually, with two graduate students who will serve as instructors, trainers and mentors for undergraduate students.
“Plasma methods are being used a lot more in the semiconductor industry, so the training modules that we are developing will expose the students to state-of-the-art plasma applications that also overlap with the ag-tech industry, which will give them a leg up in the industry when they apply for positions after graduating,” Banerjee said.
The project will consist of three key experiential learning activities – training programs, internships and workshops. Semester-based training programs will provide participants with a chance to complete academic fellowships at partner research labs. Their work will focus on plasma reactor design, artificial intelligence integration and advanced materials.
During the summer, students will have the opportunity to apply for and participate in 10-week paid internships with industry partners to provide hands-on training in plasma systems, materials characterization and process control.
“As an industry partner, Muegge-Gerling is proud to support the PLASMA initiative because it bridges a critical gap between academic preparation and workforce needs,” said Dr. Edgar Perez-Lopez, plasma product manager at Muegge-Gerling. “Microwave and plasma technologies are central to the semiconductor industry, and exposing students to real-world systems ensures they graduate with the skills and confidence to contribute immediately. This collaboration not only develops future engineers, but also positions the Central Valley as a hub for high-tech innovation with top-of-the-line microwave heating and plasma products.”
Workshops on semiconductor manufacturing, technical writing and project management will serve as continuous professional development for students. Peer mentoring and networking events will also support career pathways.
With few training programs in the region, this project is the first of its kind at Fresno State.
“This program can evolve into a full degree program or a certification program in the future, so it’s crucial that Fresno State continues to lead this effort that will uplift California’s economy as new industries set up shop in the Valley and recruit our skilled students,” Banerjee said.
