Illinois Institute of Technology (Illinois Tech) has joined the Midwest Regional Network to Address National Needs in Semiconductor and Microelectronics—a partnership of 20 colleges and universities committed to developing innovative solutions in higher education to best support the onshoring of the advanced semiconductor and microelectronics industry.
“As the impacts of a global shortage of semiconductors reverberate throughout the supply chain, now is the time to collaborate on cutting-edge technological advancements in microelectronics,” said Illinois Tech provost Kenneth T. Christensen. “Chicago, Illinois and the Midwest share a deep reserve of talent and innovation, and this network of educational institutions is poised to make great contributions to the industry. Illinois Tech is at the forefront of engineering and industry-relevant research and education, and with our recent partnership with DMG MORI establishing a national center for advanced manufacturing, Illinois Tech is ready to help shape the semiconductor industry.”
The network began after a two-day workshop hosted by Ohio State University in April, and Illinois Tech joined in November.
Partner institutions will leverage existing research, curricular and experiential learning assets, capabilities, and expertise within the region and grow the collective capacity to support the domestic growth of robust semiconductor and microelectronics innovation and supply chain ecosystems.
“With our legacy of innovation in engineering and computing and our proven record of generating cutting-edge ideas, Illinois Tech is honored to help address the needs of the U.S. semiconductor industry and be a key contributor in this partnership,” said Illinois Tech president Raj Echambadi. “We look forward to collaborating with such incredible institutions of higher learning throughout the Midwest to help make the United States a global leader in semiconductor production.”
Universities in Illinois, Ohio, Indiana, and Michigan comprise the Midwest Semiconductor Network, which is expected to grow further.