Ohio’s Lancaster Semiconductor Certificate Opens Doors to Local Manufacturing Careers

Key Takeaways

Ohio University Lancaster will offer a new Semiconductor Technician Certificate starting in fall 2025 to meet industry demands.
The program is stackable with existing automation and mechatronics certificates, providing flexible pathways to advanced manufacturing careers.
Students gain hands-on experience in a clean room environment, preparing them for careers in various sectors utilizing semiconductor technologies.

New Opportunities in Semiconductor Manufacturing

Ohio University Lancaster is introducing a Semiconductor Technician Certificate in fall 2025 to support Ohio’s expanding advanced manufacturing sector. As semiconductors are integral to electronics and emerging technologies like AI and quantum computing, the demand for skilled technicians is increasing.

This one-year certificate program is designed to complement two existing certificates in automation and mechatronics, allowing students to build their qualifications through a stackable, five-course structure. This innovative approach means students can easily transition from one certificate to another by completing only a few additional courses.

Savas Kaya, Ph.D., from the Russ College of Engineering and Technology, highlights the program’s potential to serve as an entry point into advanced manufacturing. He notes that not only can it help students who may not have initially planned to pursue a degree, but it also fosters an environment where they can opt for an associate’s degree after gaining confidence through their initial training.

The Semiconductor Technician Certificate will provide practical, hands-on experience in a modular clean room, which is critical for chip manufacturing. This facility will allow students to operate advanced equipment, such as vacuum systems and lithography tools, under conditions that reflect industry standards. “Our goal is to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for quality control in production lines,” Kaya explains.

Students completing this certificate will be well-prepared for potential employment in diverse sectors, including healthcare, defense, and packaging, where semiconductor technologies play a crucial role. Ismail Tirtom, Assistant Professor of Semiconductors, emphasizes that obtaining this certificate can significantly enhance a student’s employability, opening doors to various job opportunities. Many employers are even willing to finance further education for those who complete their certificates.

Mark Wile, assistant professor of engineering technology, elaborates on the advantages of earning the certificate, noting that it acts as an essential stepping stone in a career path. Gaining one certificate can lead to job offers that may not have been previously attainable.

Ohio University Lancaster’s initiative is part of a broader effort through the Appalachian Semiconductor Education and Technical (ASCENT) Ecosystem to develop a skilled workforce in Ohio’s emerging semiconductor sector, engaging students from K-12 to graduate studies.

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