TeachSemi@PSU connects educators and students with semiconductor education, hands-on learning, and pathways to college and careers.
Led by Portland State University’s Maseeh College of Engineering and Computer Science in partnership with the Portland Metro STEM Partnership, TeachSemi helps educators introduce semiconductor and microelectronics concepts in their classrooms. The program also helps students explore educational opportunities and careers in Oregon’s semiconductor industry.
Semiconductor Education
Semiconductors power technologies ranging from smartphones and computers to medical imaging, clean energy, transportation, and artificial intelligence.
TeachSemi introduces educators and students to the fundamentals of semiconductors and microelectronics through hands-on activities, classroom learning, and career exploration.
Program topics may include:
- Chip design
- Semiconductor fabrication and characterization
- Lithography
- Semiconductor manufacturing
- Integrated circuits and microelectronics
- Semiconductor careers and workforce skills
Resources and Opportunities for Educators
TeachSemi helps K–12 educators bring semiconductor and microelectronics concepts into their classrooms. Educators can learn about the technology, connect classroom lessons to real-world applications, and introduce students to relevant college and career opportunities.
TeachSemi experiences and resources may include:
- Educator workshops
- School visits to Portland State University
- Educator externships
- Dual-credit information and opportunities
- Summer camps
- Classroom resources
- Community outreach and events
Availability may vary by academic year and program funding.
College and Career Pathways
The semiconductor industry offers careers in chip design, manufacturing, process development, equipment, automation, materials, software, testing, and research.
Students can prepare for these careers through several educational pathways, including technical certificates and associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees.
At Portland State University, students can pursue semiconductor-related learning through fields such as:
- Electrical engineering
- Computer engineering
- Computer science
- Mechanical engineering
- Materials science and engineering
- Artificial intelligence
- Engineering and technology management
The right pathway depends on a student’s interests, career goals, and preferred type of work.
Supporting Oregon’s Semiconductor Workforce
TeachSemi@PSU supports Oregon’s semiconductor workforce by connecting K–12 education, higher education, industry, and community organizations.
Through these connections, educators and students can:
- Learn how semiconductors are designed and manufactured
- Explore careers across the semiconductor industry
- Understand the skills semiconductor employers need
- Discover educational pathways into the industry
- Connect classroom learning with real-world technology
TeachSemi@PSU Partners
TeachSemi@PSU is supported by partnerships and initiatives involving:
- Portland State University
- Maseeh College of Engineering and Computer Science
- Portland Metro STEM Partnership
- National Network for Microelectronics Education
- Pacific Northwest Intermountain Network for Education in Semiconductors
- Frontiers of Advanced Semiconductor Technology
- Oregon Semiconductor Talent Consortium
- Intel
Stay Connected
Educators, students, schools, and community partners are invited to connect with TeachSemi@PSU. Opportunities may include educator workshops, school visits, externships, dual-credit information sessions, summer camps, and community events.
To ask a question, learn about current opportunities, or discuss getting involved, contact the Maseeh College of Engineering and Computer Science outreach team at mcecs-outreach@pdx.edu