Learn more about SCALE
About SCALE
There is a global need for microelectronics that are safe, reliable, and trustworthy. However, the design and manufacturing of these microchips is challenged by a number of factors, including disruptions of the manufacturing chain as well as an urgent need for a rapid increase in the skilled microelectronics workforce.
The Scalable Asymmetric Lifecycle Engagement (SCALE) network addresses this need. SCALE is the preeminent U.S. program for semiconductor workforce development in the defense sector.
Led by Purdue University, funded by the Department of Defense and managed by NSWC Crane, SCALE facilitates a different approach to training highly-skilled U.S. microelectronics engineers, hardware designers, and manufacturing experts, ensuring U.S. leadership in this important area.
SCALE provides unique courses, mentoring, internship matching and targeted research projects for US college students interested in five microelectronics specialty areas: radiation-hardening, heterogeneous integration/advanced packaging, system on a chip, embedded system security/trusted AI, and supply chain awareness.
SCALE Impact (as of May, 2024)
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800+ students selected to date (since Feb, 2020)
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520+ SCALE students currently enrolled at SCALE universities
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256 students graduated to date
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Over 110 faculty and staff
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22 universities
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186 new full-time job placements recorded
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Over 66% of graduating undergrads entered defense microelectronics sector
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Demonstrated 80% SCALE acceptance rate in First-time Researcher feeder program
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75 public, private and academic partners
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$45M in DoD funding
