The demand for safe and reliable microelectronics is a pressing global concern. However, several issues make the design and production of these crucial microchips challenging, including disruptions in the production chain and an urgent need to rapidly expand the skilled microelectronics workforce. Spearheaded by Purdue University, supported by the Department of Defense (DOD), and overseen by NSWC-Crane, the Scalable Asymmetric Lifecycle Engagement (SCALE) advocates a novel approach to training highly proficient U.S. microelectronics engineers, hardware designers, and manufacturing specialists.
SCALE fosters a collaborative effort among 22 universities and 54 partners from the government and defense sectors, forming a robust public-private-academic partnership. Regular meetings between SCALE's industry and government partners support the ongoing development of a comprehensive list detailing the essential knowledge, skills, and abilities required for newcomers to the workforce. Subsequently, participating universities update their curricula to ensure students are adequately equipped to meet the evolving demands of the rapidly advancing microelectronics landscape.