Interdisciplinary Associate Degree Program in Electronics Manufacturing

This proposal seeks funds to develop an interdisciplinary program for electronics manufacturing education that will provide highly-trained technicians to U.S. industry. A wide range of activities that include all three subcategories of "Advanced Technological Education Projects" will be necessary to meet this goal. First, associate degree faculty expertise will be enhanced with industry fellowships, workshops, and seminars. With better understanding of industry needs, these faculty, along with a practicing engineer from the Electronic Manufacturing Productivity Facility (EMPF), will develop three new courses that are the basis for a new degree option. The laboratories which accompany these courses will use facilities belonging to industry partners, the EMPF, and the schools, along with equipment purchased under the Instrumentation and Laboratory Improvement section of this grant. Additional activities, centering around the Mobile Electronics Manufacturing Line and the EMPF, will link secondary teachers and students with associate degree faculty, practicing engineers, and technicians. Such activities will allow for secondary teacher enhancement and curriculum development.