The future of technology depends on the people who advance it.
As demand for semiconductors that power everything from smartphones to space exploration soars, the need for a highly skilled workforce has become a priority for industry leaders, policy makers, and educational institutions.
Arizona State University’s Ira A. Fulton School of Engineering is a center of innovation in semiconductor research. Through educational programs, impactful research, and symbiotic partnerships, ASU advances learners and drives progress in this important field.
Vinil Staley, dean and professor in the Department of Manufacturing Systems and Networks, part of the Fulton School, has had a lifelong passion for technology and innovation. This fascination blossomed into a distinguished career dedicated to advancing digital manufacturing. Named one of the 20 Most Influential Professors in Smart Manufacturing in 2020, he brings a wealth of knowledge to his teaching and leadership roles.
When it comes to workforce development, Starley believes that helping students address skill gaps and adapt to new technologies is essential to building a diverse talent pipeline. His experience in factory digitization, particularly in connecting engineering, information and operational technologies, plays a key role in creating a digital thread in manufacturing.
Starley uses his experience to maximize untapped potential and push the boundaries of microelectronics. His efforts to advance manufacturing processes through collaboration with respected colleagues, partners, and organizations align seamlessly with ASU’s mission to advance research and contribute to the improvement of society.
See what Starley has to say about the current state of the semiconductor industry and workforce development.
Vinil Staley, dean and professor in the School of Manufacturing Systems and Networks, poses at the Innovation Hub on the ASU College of Engineering campus. Photographer Tim Trumbull/ASU
Q: How has the School of Manufacturing Systems and Networks established itself as a leader in semiconductor manufacturing research and education, especially given its growing importance in this industry?
A: In response to growing industry demand, the School of Manufacturing Systems and Networks trains digitally proficient manufacturing and robotics engineers at all academic levels. As a premier engineering school, ASU offers unique, advanced programs designed to prepare the next generation of engineers who can design, maintain, and optimize the advanced systems essential to semiconductors.
No other engineering school in the country offers such a wide range of knowledge and skills. We develop talented engineers at every stage of the microelectronics industry, from chip design to manufacturing, packaging, and integration into the hardware systems that rely on these advanced technologies.
Q: How do the school’s resources and laboratories enhance ASU’s workforce development efforts?
A: The construction, operation, and maintenance of advanced semiconductors relies heavily on sophisticated machinery that performs the multi-step manufacturing processes essential to manufacturing semiconductor chips. Inside these machines are complex systems consisting of motor drives, pumps, compressors, actuators, sensors, mechanical electrical subsystems, and industrial automation software.
The design, operation and extension of complex systems requires a careful combination of skills and predictive maintenance. The school plays an important role in training future manufacturing and robotics engineers, with laboratories focused on areas such as design prototyping, industrial automation, robotics, and non-destructive testing. With access to these unparalleled facilities,Equip students with the knowledge and problem-solving skills necessary to excel in the semiconductor industry.
Q: Are there any specific workforce development goals related to the expected opening of ISTB12 in fall 2025?
A: Yes! our new ISTB12 This facility allows students from across the university to immerse themselves in the field through valuable hands-on opportunities to train in industrial robotics and automation. In the initial phase, engineering students at all levels at the Fulton School will have access to the building’s lab space through courses that introduce them to its machines. Non-ASU students will also have access to the lab through non-degree programs offered by ASU. ASU Learning Enterprise.
The $185 million project will give students the opportunity to explore industrial protocols and develop digital twins for manufacturing systems. It also provides a platform for learning important concepts such as design for manufacturing, quality control, and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into processes through various testbeds within the facility.
Q: Why is building a semiconductor and workforce development ecosystem at ASU important to ASU’s mission and the broader industry?
A: Significant investments from private industry, the federal government, and states are making it easier for educational institutions (K-12, community colleges, and research universities like ASU) to develop a specialized workforce of future-advanced researchers and development engineers. It has become important to cultivate it. Next generation semiconductor and microelectronics technology.
Over the next five years, the Phoenix metropolitan area will Project awards total over $100 billion bear fruit. To make the most of this investment, ASU and the Maricopa Community College District must produce talented professionals to meet the needs of today’s advanced factories.
In addition to Phoenix, large-scale semiconductor investments are being made in New Mexico, California, New York, Ohio, Texas, and other states. ASU’s undergraduate and graduate programs attract students from all of these states, many of whom may return home after completing their education. Therefore, advanced skills and engineering expertise are essential not only to Arizona’s economy, but also to the nation as a whole.
Q: What strategic partnerships and collaborations has the school formed with industry leaders to advance semiconductor research and provide meaningful learning opportunities for students?
A: We actively collaborate with industry leaders such as: intel, applied materials, TSMC, Deca Technologies and Amkor About research and development projects. These partnerships focus on equipment innovation, process design, and semiconductor process modeling and simulation.
The school plays a major role in this ecosystem by training manufacturing engineers who perform production operations in semiconductor manufacturing facilities owned by these companies. for example, ASU and TSMC partnership Strengthen student training, recruitment, and faculty research. The partnership will support TSMC’s upcoming Phoenix semiconductor fab by expanding the talent pipeline, providing scholarships and providing hands-on learning.
Q: Which emerging trends in semiconductor technology do you think are the most promising, and how does the School of Manufacturing Systems and Networks educate students to contribute to these innovations?
A: Semiconductor manufacturing technology has seen innovative adoption of smart robotics, advanced industrial automation, digital twin technology, and AI-driven systems within factory operations and machinery. These innovations enable smart manufacturing, a concept that integrates robotics, AI, machine learning, factory information systems, and robust cybersecurity measures to protect advanced facilities.
Semiconductor technology underpins modern electronics, enabling more efficient devices with the potential to advance technology, enhance connectivity, and improve energy efficiency. The future of semiconductor manufacturing promises smarter, faster, and more secure technologies that will transform the industry in unimaginable ways.
