• Penn State University

University Park, PA

• Supports the development, constant up-dating, and enrichment of 2-year degree programs in micro- and nanotechnology across the nation.
• Emphasizes attention to the full range of micro- and nanotechnology applications.
• Provides free online access to an extensive library of nanotechnology educational resources including videos and PowerPoint presentations.
• Delivers nanotechnology webinars to classrooms across the country.
• Offers real-time remote access to state-of-the-art cleanroom equipment for teaching via the Internet.
• Provides national coordination of micro- and nanofabrication workforce development programs and activities.

NACK Prepares Students for Careers in High-Tech Economy

NACK provides foundational and broad micro- and nanotechnology education that students can build upon for the rest of their careers. The 6 second-year level nanotechnology courses, also known as capstone courses, assembled by nanotechnology researchers at Penn State may be taught as a set or in separate units. The courses’ PowerPoint presentations and video materials, as well as NACK’s modules, lectures, hands-on laboratories, recruiting materials, and webinars are available at www.nano4me.org. Through 2010, NACK’s

• Education resources have been downloaded by more than 800 U.S. educators.
• Webinars have been attended by 767 registrants.
• Nanotechnology Course Resources Workshops, which cover materials in the 6 courses, have been attended by 84 educators from 16 states and Puerto Rico.

Industry Values Employees with Micro- & Nanotechnology Skills

Companies across the country appreciate the value of hiring technician-level employees who have been educated in the key micro- and nanotechnology skill areas of fabrication, synthesis, and characterization. At least 13 states and Puerto Rico have implemented micro- and nanotechnology programs at the associate degree level. The program in Puerto Rico is modeled directly on NACK’s program. Many of the other programs are utilizing NACK’s downloadable materials, webinars, and workshops, as well as advice from NACK staff members. NACK personnel are also helping many other programs that are in development. Employers are finding that graduates of these 2-year degree programs have the knowledge and skills to be involved in research and development, manufacturing, sales, or product support.

As of December 2010, more than 800 people have graduated from associate degree nanotechnology programs across the United States. A 2008 survey of 405 NACK graduates reported that all 180 respondents were either employed in nanotechnology or enrolled in baccalaureate or graduate level programs. NACK graduates are employed by more than 100 companies ranging in size from multinational conglomerates to start-ups. Many of these companies have hired multiple NACK graduates.

NACK Creates National Alumni Network

The NACK Alumni Network (www.nano4me.org/alumni) informs graduates of associate level nanotechnology programs throughout the nation, about professional development and other educational opportunities, and connects them with other nanotechnicians via social networking groups.