NY CREATES Collaborative Quantum Research Published in ACS Applied Materials and Interfaces

Congratulations to NY CREATES’ Ekta Bhatia and colleagues on the publication of their article on niobium surface oxides in ACS Applied Materials and Interfaces. The team’s work, in partnership with PNNL, BNL and Neutral Physics Corp., is featured on the supplementary journal cover, an honor given to four exemplary research articles from each issue. The findings detailed in this article are important to understand how superconducting circuits for quantum computing can be improved.

Utilizing 300mm wafer-scale fabrication at NY CREATES, isotopic labeling studies, and modeling at DOE labs, coupled with state-of-the-art metrology, Ekta Bhatia, Jeffrey Dhas, and the team uncovered the details of hydrogen incorporation in surface oxides and its mitigation through innovative processes. This accomplishment is a shining example of the cutting-edge research conducted at NY CREATES, with partners across the U.S.

Read the Article Here

Empowering Workforce Development and Student Innovators Through Leading-edge Tech at NY CREATES

At NY CREATES, providing opportunities for hands-on training with advanced semiconductor research tools is a significant aspect of workforce development and student education. One such tool that is now being used for research and analysis is the Bruker D8 DISCOVER Plus, an X-ray Diffractometer (XRD) used for materials characterization in both academic and industry settings.

Innovative Technology Applications

X-ray diffraction is a technique that enables the precise analysis of the structure and composition of a wide variety of materials by investigating their crystalline structure and measuring how X-rays interact with the material’s atoms.

This process allows users to identify compounds by analyzing their atomic arrangement, providing a unique “fingerprint” of the material. Thin films and layered structures can also be investigated to determine thickness, interface roughness, and density, and measurement of the internal stress of stacked layers helps ensure high-performance material properties in semiconductor applications. Analysis of a material’s crystalline quality also supports the optimization of material performance in next-generation electronics

Bridging Education and Industry 

Access to the X-ray diffractometer can be valuable for students and researchers preparing for careers in semiconductor-related fields, especially because the configuration of the instrument at the NY CREATES lab offers great experimental flexibility and fast, very reliable results. This particular instrument also has an Atlas goniometer, and a non-coplanar arm, both with very stringent specifications in terms of resolution, accuracy and repeatability, that make it one of the most advanced in the industry. 

NY CREATES provides training for students and individual researchers to operate the Bruker D8 DISCOVER Plus independently, helping them develop practical skills in materials characterization and data analysis. This experience not only strengthens their technical expertise but also enhances their career readiness, making them competitive candidates for industry roles upon graduation.

Beyond student training, this cutting-edge tool also serves as a resource for on-site partners, who are able to utilize it for high-precision data analysis of several different materials. In this way, its availability at NY CREATES’ Albany NanoTech Complex contributes to collaboration between academic institutions and industry partners.

Shaping the Future of Semiconductor Talent

As semiconductor technology continues to evolve, exposure and accessibility to innovative R&D tools remain important components of workforce development. This diffractometer is just one of several resources available at NY CREATES’ Albany NanoTech Complex that support technical training, research, and collaboration with industry and academic partners. 

Providing valuable training with these tools empowers students and researchers to develop real-world technical expertise in materials science and semiconductor engineering and serves to strengthen connections between amongst members of the site’s unique chips-focused ecosystem.

IBM Newsroom: Tokyo Electron and IBM Renew Collaboration for Advanced Semiconductor Technology

“Our collaboration at the Albany NanoTech Complex has been instrumental in driving innovation and we look forward to continuing this journey together,” said Toshiki Kawai, Representative Director, President & CEO Tokyo Electron Limited.

Please find a copy of the related IBM Press Release below:

ALBANY, N.Y. and TOKYO, April 2, 2025 – Today, IBM and Tokyo Electron (TEL) announced an extension of their agreement for the joint research and development of advanced semiconductor technologies. The new 5-year agreement will focus on the continued advancement of technology for next-generation semiconductor nodes and architectures to power the age of generative AI.

This agreement builds on a more than two-decade partnership between IBM and TEL for joint research and development. Previously, the two companies have achieved several breakthroughs, including the development of a new laser debonding process for producing 300 mm silicon chip wafers for 3D chip stacking technology.

Now, bringing together IBM’s expertise in semiconductor process integration and TEL’s leading-edge equipment, they will explore technology for smaller nodes and chiplet architectures to achieve the performance and energy efficiency requirements for the future of generative AI.

“The work IBM and TEL have done together over the last 20 years has helped to push the semiconductor technology innovation to provide many generations of chip performance and energy efficiency to the semiconductor industry,” said Mukesh Khare, GM of IBM Semiconductors and VP of Hybrid Cloud, IBM. “We are thrilled to be continuing our work together at this critical time to accelerate chip innovations that can fuel the era of generative AI.”

“IBM and Tokyo Electron have built a strong relationship of trust and innovation through years of joint development. We are excited to continue to build on our long-standing partnership with IBM for another five years. This renewed agreement underscores our mutual commitment to advancing semiconductor technologies, including patterning processes with High NA EUV.” said Toshiki Kawai, Representative Director, President & CEO Tokyo Electron Limited. “Our collaboration at the Albany NanoTech Complex has been instrumental in driving innovation and we look forward to continuing this journey together.”

IBM and TEL are members of the Albany NanoTech Complex, the world’s leading ecosystem for semiconductor research, owned and operated by NY CREATES. For years, IBM, TEL, and others have worked together to build the most advanced public-private semiconductor research facility to accelerate chip innovation. As a result, last year, the site was selected as America’s first National Semiconductor Technology Center, the NSTC EUV Accelerator. As part of this new agreement, IBM and TEL researchers will continue to work together in Albany utilizing its unique ecosystem and R&D capabilities.

About TEL
As a leading global company of innovative semiconductor production equipment, Tokyo Electron (TEL) engages in development, manufacturing, and sales in a wide range of product fields. All of TEL’s semiconductor production equipment product lines maintain high market shares in their respective global segments. TEL provides outstanding products and services to customers through a global network in the U.S., Europe, and Asia.

About IBM
IBM is a leading provider of global hybrid cloud, artificial intelligence, and consulting expertise. We help clients in over 175 countries harness insights from their data, optimize business processes, reduce costs and gain a competitive advantage in their industries. Thousands of government and corporate entities in critical infrastructure areas such as financial services, telecommunications and healthcare rely on the IBM hybrid cloud platform and Red Hat OpenShift to achieve their digital transformations quickly, efficiently and securely. IBM’s breakthrough innovations in artificial intelligence, quantum computing, industry-specific cloud solutions and consulting offer open and flexible options to our clients. All of this is backed by IBM’s long-standing commitment to trust, transparency, accountability, inclusion and service. Visit www.ibm.com for more information.

NY CREATES Statement Regarding Natcast Announcement of Dr. Craig Child as Director of the CHIPS for America EUV Accelerator, an NSTC Facility

“NY CREATES congratulates and looks forward to working closely with Dr. Craig Child, who has extensive experience across high-tech industries, deep knowledge of EUV lithography, and is very familiar with our Albany NanoTech Complex and its ecosystem. Home to the EUV Accelerator, NY CREATES provides a state-of-the-art, accessible semiconductor R&D and prototyping environment. Together with Natcast and our partners, we will drive the growth and success of the EUV Accelerator in support of the overall NSTC initiative to advance U.S. technological leadership.”

– Dave Anderson, President, NY CREATES 

Please find a copy of the related Natcast news release below:

Natcast Announces Dr. Craig Child as Director of the CHIPS for America EUV Accelerator, an NSTC Facility

Industry veteran will lead Natcast on-site staff and enable NSTC Members and Natcast researchers to leverage state-of-the-art EUV technology in advancing innovation and U.S. economic and national security

WASHINGTON, D.C., April 2, 2025 – Natcast, the purpose-built, non-profit entity designated by the Department of Commerce to operate the National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC) established by the CHIPS and Science Act, today announced Dr. Craig Child as Director of the CHIPS for America Extreme Ultraviolet (EUV) Accelerator, an NSTC Facility (EUV Accelerator), located at NY CREATES’ Albany NanoTech Complex in Albany, N.Y.

In this role, Dr. Child will lead Natcast on-site staff and enable NSTC Members and Natcast researchers to leverage state-of-the-art EUV technology in advancing innovation and U.S. economic and national security. The EUV Accelerator is anticipated to be operational in July 2025.

“We are pleased to welcome Craig to the Natcast team to lead our work at the EUV Accelerator,” said Deirdre Hanford, Natcast CEO. “Craig’s proven leadership, industry experience, and breadth of technical expertise will be instrumental in enabling the operations of this facility. This investment in shared national infrastructure and assets provides access to leading-edge tools and resources, and it is integral to advancing U.S.-led innovation and strengthening America’s position as a global leader in semiconductor R&D and manufacturing.”

As the EUV Accelerator’s on-site executive representative for Natcast and NSTC Members, Dr. Child will oversee and facilitate collaboration among industry, academia, government, other ecosystem partners, and Natcast researchers to conduct R&D essential to reducing the barriers and time to commercialize innovative semiconductor technology. This activity aligns to the goals outlined in the NSTC Strategic Plan released in October 2024 and will support the forthcoming NSTC Research Agenda to be released in the coming months.

“EUV lithography is at the heart of advanced semiconductor scaling, and the research we conduct at the EUV Accelerator will shape the industry for decades to come,” said Robert Chau, Senior Vice President of Research at Natcast. “With Craig at the helm, NSTC Member and Natcast research conducted at the EUV Accelerator is poised to push the limits of chip manufacturing and technology integration in the U.S.”

Dr. Child joins Natcast from IBM Research, where he managed a team of 25 engineers and was responsible for all IBM Research Quality and Reliability activities. With more than two decades of experience in semiconductor R&D, Dr. Child has led advanced technology development at IBM Research, GlobalFoundries, AMD, and Intel, specializing in EUV lithography, BEOL integration, and process innovation. Dr. Child holds a Ph.D. in Chemical Physics and a B.S. in Chemistry from the University of Texas at Austin and is an inventor on multiple patents.

“I’m honored to join Natcast to lead the on-site team at the EUV Accelerator at such a pivotal moment for semiconductor research and innovation in the United States,” said Dr. Child. “EUV lithography is essential to advancing next-generation chip manufacturing, and I look forward to working alongside world-class scientists, engineers, and industry partners at this state-of-the-art facility to accelerate U.S.-led innovation of this critical technology.”

On October 31, 2024, Natcast and the Department of Commerce announced NY CREATES’ Albany NanoTech Complex as the anticipated location for the EUV Accelerator. This state-of-the-art site enables Natcast and NSTC Members to have access to leading-edge EUV technology and resources and to cultivate collaboration and innovation among a vibrant ecosystem.

The EUV Accelerator is one of three announced CHIPS for America R&D flagship facilities. Together, these facilities will provide a home for conducting world-class R&D, fostering innovation and collaboration, and reducing the time between early-stage research and commercialization. These efforts will advance America’s global leadership in design, materials, and process innovation while strengthening the country’s economic and national security. Learn more about the three CHIPS for America R&D flagship facilities at natcast.org/facilities.

Media Coverage:

Albany Business Review: Director named for new $825M semiconductor research center at Albany Nanotech Complex

Times Union: IBM chip researcher tapped to lead federal EUV lab in Albany [paywall]

NiiCA: Strengthening the Semiconductor Talent Pipeline: Leaders Convene in Syracuse to Build on Workforce Development Along I-90 Corridor

View the Original News Release Here.

Policymakers, industry leaders, and workforce experts discuss strategies to expand apprenticeships, training programs, and regional partnerships to sustain semiconductor workforce and industry growth

SYRACUSE, N.Y., March 20, 2025 — Today, leaders from across government, industry, and workforce development convened at Syracuse University’s National Veterans Resource Center for a high-level summit focused on advancing workforce strategies that support the continued growth of New York’s semiconductor sector.

Hosted by the National Institute for Industry and Career Advancement (NIICA) and the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), in collaboration with Syracuse University, the event brought together Congressional leaders, state and local officials, workforce organizations, educators, employers, and semiconductor industry experts to examine workforce investments, discuss best practices, and explore strategies for expanding apprenticeship and training programs along the I-90 corridor and beyond.

This convening builds on the September 2023 CSIS forum, “Solving the Semiconductor Workforce Crunch,” and comes as historic public and private investments continue to fuel New York’s position as a national leader in semiconductor manufacturing. Semiconductor and related device manufacturing companies in New York have increased by 27% since the passage of the CHIPS and Science Act, reflecting the state’s rapid industry growth.

“A strong semiconductor workforce is the foundation of U.S. technological leadership. New York’s approach—leveraging apprenticeships, skill-based training, and cross-sector collaboration—demonstrates a forward-thinking model for developing talent at scale. Today’s discussions reinforced the importance of aligning education and workforce strategies to keep pace with industry growth,” said Sujai Shivakumar, Senior Fellow and Director of Renewing American Innovation at CSIS.

The event featured discussions with federal, state, and local policymakers on the strategic investments and policies driving semiconductor workforce development across New York. Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knightsaid, “Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York State is establishing itself as a leader in the America’s domestic semiconductor resurgence by making strategic investments to grow the industry and its supply chain. In tandem, we continue to support workforce development programs and projects that will provide more New Yorkers with the skills needed for these good-paying jobs, while ensuring that these companies have the trained workforce to support new and sustainable growth.”

Workforce development practitioners and industry leaders also provided insight into how apprenticeship programs and industry-education partnerships are strengthening the talent pipeline. “Developing a semiconductor workforce for the U.S. requires more than just classroom training—it demands hands-on experience, industry partnerships, and structured career pathways. Registered Apprenticeships and skill-based learning programs, which NY CREATES is proud to be spearheading with our innovation-focused partners from industry, academia, and organizations like NIICA, are key to closing the talent gap and ensuring workers are equipped for high-tech careers,” said Dr. Robert Geer, Vice President of Education and Workforce Development at NY CREATES.

Participants also highlighted the importance of scaling and sustaining workforce development initiatives as semiconductor manufacturing investments expand. Melinda Woods, NIICA Board Chair and former Senior Advisor to the Secretary of Defense for supply chain readiness, stressed the role of collaboration in achieving long-term success. “The success of New York’s workforce strategy highlights the power of public-private partnerships,” said Woods. “By strengthening collaboration between government, industry, and education, we are not only meeting today’s workforce needs but also laying the foundation for long-term economic resilience and innovation.”

As federal, state, and private investments in semiconductor manufacturing continue to grow, today’s discussions underscored the importance of continued collaboration between industry, education, and government to build a skilled and sustainable workforce. Speakers highlighted the role of Registered Apprenticeships and skill-based training programs in meeting industry demand and creating long-term career pathways in critical sectors like semiconductors and advanced manufacturing.

“As the leading voice and business solutions provider for manufacturers in Central and Upstate New York, MACNY is deeply engaged in workforce training and education, including efforts to expand Registered Apprenticeships across the state. It was a pleasure to participate in the event at Syracuse University and see national recognition for the work being done to develop the talent pipeline and prepare the workforce to support the semiconductor industry along the I-90 corridor,” said Mike Frame, Executive Vice President of MACNY. “It was equally important to see the focus on strengthening the broader manufacturing and tech talent pipeline, as these industries will continue to draw from the same skilled workforce.”

With workforce readiness playing an essential role in the success of semiconductor expansion efforts nationwide, leaders explored strategies to ensure training programs remain adaptable, scalable, and aligned with evolving industry needs. As New York continues to serve as a model for semiconductor workforce development, the discussions will help shape future efforts to strengthen talent pipelines and support a globally competitive and resilient workforce.

“It was great to see national recognition from CSIS and NIICA for our region’s efforts to attract major investments with long-term impacts for the state and nation—potentially one of the largest semiconductor investments in history. This was truly a collective effort by regional stakeholders, state and federal government, and private organizations. Now, the focus shifts to preparing the workforce needed to power these investments, creating opportunities for county and state residents for generations to come—and we are ready for the task,” said Ryan McMahon, Onondaga County Executive, who has played a key role in attracting Micron and other major investments while preparing the region to support ongoing operations.

A replay of the event will be made on NIICA’s YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/@NiiCA-workforce.

For more information about NIICA’s work, visit www.niica.org. For more information about CSIS’ work, visit www.csis.org.

About the National Institute for Industry and Career Advancement™ 
NIICA is a 501(c)(3) organization that is responsible for a national strategy to build the talent pipeline to support strategic industry sectors – tech-based industries and advanced manufacturing tied to U.S. national security and global competitiveness.  

NIICA is a nation’s leader in semiconductor talent pipeline development strategy and is the U.S. Department of Labor’s national Registered Apprenticeship industry Intermediary responsible for establishing and expanding apprenticeships throughout the semiconductor and broader nanotechnology-related industries and advanced manufacturing supply chain. All related programming and support are being advanced through NIICA’s Center for Skill-Based Learning and National Talent Pipeline Development Initiative. 

About the Center for Strategic and International Studies
CSIS is a bipartisan, nonprofit policy research organization dedicated to advancing practical solutions to global challenges through independent research and strategic analysis. CSIS is a leader in national security and economic policy research, helping to shape policies that enhance U.S. global competitiveness and long-term stability. Through expert-driven reports, events, and advisory work, CSIS provides innovative, cross-disciplinary insights to inform key policymakers, industry leaders, and global stakeholders.

Founded in 1962, CSIS is led by President and CEO John J. Hamre and governed by a Board of Trustees chaired by Thomas J. Pritzker. The organization’s mission is driven by non-partisanship, integrity, and professional excellence, with a commitment to shaping a safer and more prosperous world through strategic engagement and policy impact.

New Capital Region BOCES Program Will Prepare Students for the High-Tech Industry

A new Capital Region BOCES program being offered for the 2025-26 school year will provide high school seniors with the skills they need to succeed in the burgeoning semiconductor and hydrogen/fuel cell industry.

The New Visions: Emerging Technologies program was developed in collaboration with industry leaders Plug and the New York Center for Research, Economic Advancement, Technology, Engineering, and Science (NY CREATES) and will ensure students gain cutting-edge skills and real-world insights, preparing them for immediate employment or for state-of-the-art apprenticeship programs in the industries.

“We are thrilled to once again be able to take the input of our business and education partners and create programming that will not only benefit students, but strengthen the local, state and national workforce,” said Capital Region BOCES Career and Technical Education Director Jeff Palmer

Specifically, the organizations are partnering to develop the New Visions: Emerging Technologies course, with NY CREATES and Plug assisting with the creation of a curriculum featuring specialized, focused content. Students who take the course will gain hands-on experience and theoretical knowledge in advanced manufacturing, mechanical and electrical systems, hydrogen safety and semiconductor processes. The program covers key topics such as fuel cell systems, pneumatics, automation, cleanroom protocols, and troubleshooting techniques. 

Officials with NY CREATES, which is dedicated to fostering innovative chips-focused R&D, the expansion of technology jobs in New York State and the U.S., and related workforce development through industry-connected innovation and commercialization projects, said the program will ensure the region’s workforce can meet the growing demands of this essential industry.

 “NY CREATES is proud to partner with Capital Region BOCES to support their emerging technologies program and develop the high-tech workforce of the future for the growing semiconductor-centered ecosystem. This partnership will offer students advanced training in chips R&D and trailblazing technologies, establishing a direct pathway to in-demand engineering careers,” said Dr. Robert Geer, NY CREATES Vice President for Education and Workforce Development. “By aligning continuing education with industry demand, we are ensuring that our workforce is not only prepared for today’s cutting-edge jobs but also equipped to lead the innovative industries of tomorrow.” 

NY CREATES Educational Outreach and Workforce Development Manager Capri O’Hara said, “With the semiconductor industry alone projected to need an additional 300,000 skilled workers by 2030, partnerships like the one between Capital Region BOCES and NY CREATES are essential in closing the skills gap. By equipping students with hands-on experience and specialized knowledge in cutting-edge technologies, we are building the workforce necessary to meet the growing demand and ensuring our region remains at the forefront of the global tech economy.”

The New Visions: Emerging Technologies program—which is considered an honors-level course—is only open to seniors and is one of two new programs launching for the 2025-26 school year. A Plumbing Technology program is also being created and will join the New Visions: Emerging Technologies program in the new CTE Extension Center that is being constructed near the Career and Technical Education Center – Albany Campus on Watervliet-Shaker Road in Albany (town of Colonie). Six other programs are being expanded or moved and will also be housed in the 46,377-square-foot facility.

For information on the 28 other programs offered by Capital Region BOCES CTE, visit the BOCES website.

Read the announcement from Capital Region BOCES here. 

Natcast News Release: National Semiconductor Technology Center Surpasses 100-Member Milestone

NY CREATES Among First 100 NSTC Members
View Original News Release HERE. 
Milestone reinforces public-private consortium as enduring institution engaging full U.S. semiconductor ecosystem to drive U.S.-led innovation, economic competitiveness, and national security

WASHINGTON, D.C., February 27, 2025 — Natcast, the purpose-built, non-profit entity designated by the Department of Commerce to operate the National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC) established by the CHIPS and Science Act of the U.S. government, today announced that the NSTC has reached a significant milestone with more than 100 signed Members. This achievement underscores the NSTC’s vital role in convening industry leaders, academic institutions, government partners, and organizations from across the value chain to accelerate U.S.-led semiconductor research and innovation and reinforce the country’s economic and national security.

“We are humbled and excited by this milestone, which is a testament to the NSTC’s mission and the shared desire for collaboration across the semiconductor ecosystem to advance semiconductor research, development, and manufacturing in the United States and strengthen our economic and national security,” said Deirdre Hanford, Natcast CEO. “As a public-private consortium, the NSTC is a national priority driving the imperative for cross-sector investment and collaboration to accelerate semiconductor research, build a strong domestic workforce development ecosystem, and extend U.S. leadership in the technologies and industries of tomorrow. We’re thrilled to have such a broad and varied group of Members on board.”

Natcast launched the NSTC Membership program on September 30, 2024, to support and advance the mission of the NSTC, which focuses on three shared and strategic goals:

  1. Strengthen U.S. semiconductor leadership

  2. Reduce time from lab-to-fab

  3. Expand the U.S. semiconductor workforce.  

With immediate interest from a wide range of companies and organizations, the NSTC had more than 50 committed Members within its first month. Building on this initial momentum, NSTC Membership has since grown to encompass more than 100 signed entities from across the semiconductor ecosystem. A comprehensive list of NSTC Members can be found here.

“Today’s milestone reflects the NSTC’s commitment to fostering a dynamic ecosystem that empowers collaboration to drive U.S.-led innovation,” said Susan Feindt, SVP of Ecosystem Development at Natcast. “We are energized by the engagement we’ve received so far — and this is just the beginning. Leveraging this momentum, we’ll continue to rollout member-driven programs and services that are responsive to real-time industry challenges to collaboratively build the NSTC as an enduring institution that will extend U.S. leadership in semiconductor technology for decades to come.”

NSTC Members benefit from access to leading-edge research, state-of-the-art facilities, shared physical and digital assets, dedicated events and collaboration opportunities, and employer-driven workforce development programming. These resources are aimed at encouraging cross-sector collaboration, reducing barriers for members to bring new technologies from lab-to-fab, and supporting member efforts to build and sustain a strong U.S. semiconductor workforce development ecosystem.

Today’s milestone comes roughly one year after the NSTC consortium was officially established on February 9, 2024.

The NSTC is actively accepting new Members. Learn more about the NSTC Membership program and apply to join at natcast.org/nstcmembership.

National Institute for Industry and Career Advancement™ Awards Maddison Spaulding Memorial Scholarships to Five Registered Apprentices in Semiconductor and Advanced Manufacturing

NiiCA News Release

Scholarship, established to honor the legacy of a dedicated apprentice, supports Registered Apprentices (RAs) as they pursue careers in semiconductor and advanced manufacturing

HANOVER, Md., Feb. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The National Institute for Industry and Career Advancement™ (NIICA) has selected five outstanding RAs as recipients of the Maddison Spaulding Memorial Scholarship. The scholarship, in its first year, celebrates the memory and legacy of Maddison Spaulding, a trailblazing RA at Applied Materials in NIICA’s Growing Apprenticeships in Nanotechnology and Semiconductors (GAINS) program.

Spaulding was a passionate advocate for skill-based learning and career advancement through apprenticeships. Spaulding’s legacy lives on through this scholarship, which provides financial assistance to apprentices to support them as they pursue careers in these critical industries.

Quazi Ummehany

This year’s scholarship recipients are:

  • Quazi Ummehany – NY CREATES
  • Allison Horst – Moog
  • Ashley Salgado – Micron
  • Heather Houchin – Micron
  • Makayla Lasswell – Micron

Each of these apprentices has demonstrated resilience, a commitment to professional growth, and a passion for advancing in semiconductor and advanced manufacturing. From balancing rigorous technical training with mentorship and leadership, to overcoming personal challenges in pursuit of a high-value career, these recipients exemplify the dedication and determination that defined Spaulding’s journey.

“Quazi Ummehany, who works as a Cleanroom Operator at the New York Center for Research, Economic Advancement, Technology, Engineering, and Science (NY CREATES), has a clear passion for innovation and is committed to skills development, making her a true asset to NY CREATES as we seek to drive the R&D and develop the workforce that will enable success of the U.S. semiconductor industry. This scholarship is a testament to her dedication and potential, and we are proud to support her as she continues to break new ground,” said NY CREATES Vice President for Education and Workforce Development Dr. Robert Geer.

View Original News Release Here

FuzeHub and NORDTECH Announce Winners of NYS Microelectronics Innovation Challenge

Albany NanoTech Complex with Circuitry graphic

$180,000 in grants awarded to projects in the Mid-Hudson, New York City, Finger Lakes, Southern Tier Regions 

New initiative from FuzeHub and NORDTECH aims to strengthen national defense through the advancement of New York’s microelectronics industry.

ALBANY, N.Y. — FuzeHub, the statewide New York Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) center, in partnership with the Northeast Regional Defense Technology Hub (NORDTECH) today announced the winners of the New York State Microelectronics Innovation Challenge. Three projects with ties to Newburgh, New York City, Ithaca, Milton, and Dundee, will each receive $60,000 from the Jeff Lawrence Innovation Fund. These grants will support groundbreaking advancements that enhance national defense through developments in the microelectronics industry.

The Innovation Challenge focuses on the following areas within microelectronics:

  • Electronic components on the micrometer-scale or smaller

  • Components and materials necessary for assembling printed circuit boards

  • Materials, equipment, and processes necessary for the manufacturing and assembly of the above two categories

FuzeHub and NORDTECH, a New York State-based consortium of government labs, defense companies, academics institutions, and technology R&D and manufacturing organizations, received numerous applications for the funding initiative, launched in November. They challenged New York’s innovators to advance New York State’s manufacturing capabilities within the microelectronics industry, either through advancing innovative technologies, or strengthening the microelectronics supply chain within New York State.

“We are proud to support these projects that will not only bolster New York’s position in the global microelectronics supply chain but also contribute to the nation’s security and defense capabilities,” said NYSTAR executive director Ben Verschueren. “The winning projects exemplify the potential of New York’s innovation ecosystem and its role in shaping the future of microelectronics manufacturing.”

“As a result of NORDTECH’s collaboration with FuzeHub, we are excited that the announced awardees will be able to drive advances in microelectronics-related innovations, which can simultaneously strengthen U.S. defense capabilities,” said Nicholas Fahrenkopf, NORDTECH Technical Director. “We are proud to enable strategic microelectronics applications through this Jeff Lawrence Innovation Fund opportunity and with our Microelectronics Challenge partners as this initiative works to strengthen the local and regional supply chain along with U.S. technological leadership.”

For the video announcement, click here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VUJUU2_AcN8

One selected project will help strengthen the microelectronics supply chain by adding capabilities to chip manufacturing, and two projects will lead to commercializing innovation that is superior to current standards. These are:

  • Manufacturing & Technology Enterprise Center (MTEC) is helping Sono-Tek (Mid-Hudson) to adapt Sono-Tek’s spray coating systems to work with 300mm silicon wafers as part of a chips manufacturing process. Sono-Tek uses precision ultrasonic nozzles in a multi-axis robotic spray coating system. The reworked system will help support domestic production, reduce reliance on foreign manufacturing, and strengthen the U.S. supply chain.

  • City University of New York (CUNY)’s Nanoscience Initiative is working with Vyir Inc (New York City) to develop a cheaper, faster method of fabricating a revolutionary optical infrared camera. This technology is cheaper, lighter, more efficient, and offers 15 times better image quality than current infrared cameras. Some immediate applications areas include defense, security, automotive safety, and methane gas detection.

  • The project between Cornell Center for Materials Research (CCMR) Corporate Partnership & Innovation (OVPRI) (Southern Tier) and TomPhyzx LLC (Finger Lakes) aims to improve the precision and efficiency of light detectors used in air sanitization systems, enhancing the control of UV-C systems that purify air in hospitals, schools, and military environments. The innovation focuses on creating a ball-shaped visual detector that measures ultraviolet light from all directions with exceptional accuracy. Because of its substantially smaller design, this device is better suited than current alternatives for applications in microelectronics.

“The Jeff Lawrence Innovation Fund was established to support forward-thinking projects that drive technology development and commercialization throughout New York State” said Patty Rechberger, innovation fund manager. “By awarding these grants, we’re helping to accelerate innovation, which will have a lasting impact on the state’s manufacturing landscape and national defense capabilities. We’re excited to see the continued growth and success of these projects.”

The Jeff Lawrence Innovation Fund — which serves as the source of funding for this Innovation Challenge — supports a set of activities designed to spur technology development and commercialization across New York State. Launched in December 2016, the fund is named for Jeff Lawrence, a champion of the New York manufacturing and entrepreneurial communities. Each year, the Innovation Fund provides more than $1 million in direct assistance to the manufacturing, research and development, technology and entrepreneurial ecosystems. To date, the fund has awarded over $10 million in funding to support collaborative projects throughout the state. This Innovation Challenge is made possible through funding and support from Empire State Development’s Division of Science, Technology and Innovation (NYSTAR) and the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD).

About Jeff Lawrence

During his more than 20 years at the Center for Economic Growth, the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) affiliate in the Capital Region where he served as executive vice president and MEP Center Director, Jeff Lawrence directed programs of direct assistance to manufacturers and technology companies to increase their competitiveness. He is remembered for being an invaluable and generous mentor to many in the area’s business community and a tireless advocate for manufacturing innovation throughout New York.

About the Northeast Regional Defense Technology Hub (NORDTECH)

NORDTECH is a regional coalition of public and private sector experts in the Microelectronics Commons region in and around New York State, established in September 2023 as part of the first major award from the U.S. CHIPS and Science Act. NORDTECH’s five founding members who compose the leadership team and governance committee of the hub include: the New York Center for Research, Economic Advancement, Technology, Engineering, and Science (NY CREATES), the University at Albany College of Nanotechnology, Science, and Engineering (CNSE), Cornell University, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), and IBM. NORDTECH’s board is advised by diverse participating member organizations, including small and medium semiconductor manufacturing companies, universities and community colleges, and major corporations that are service providers and leaders in semiconductor device design, fabrication and production. Learn more at nordtechub.org.

About FuzeHub

FuzeHub is a not-for-profit organization that connects New York’s small to medium-sized manufacturing companies to the resources, programs, and expertise they need for technology commercialization, innovation, and business growth. Through our custom assessment, matching, and referral platform, we help companies navigate New York’s robust network of industry experts at Manufacturing Extension Partners centers, universities, economic development organizations, and other providers. FuzeHub is the statewide New York Manufacturing Extension Partnership Program (MEP) center, supported by Empire State Development’s Division of Science, Technology & Innovation.  For more information on FuzeHub, visit www.fuzehub.com.

 About Empire State Development

Empire State Development (ESD) is New York’s chief economic development agency. The mission of ESD is to promote a vigorous and growing economy, encourage the creation of new job and economic opportunities, increase revenues to the State and its municipalities, and achieve stable and diversified local economies. Through the use of loans, grants, tax credits and other forms of financial assistance, ESD strives to enhance private business investment and growth to spur job creation and support prosperous communities across New York State. ESD is also the primary administrative agency overseeing the Regional Economic Development Councils and the marketing of “I LOVE NY,” the State’s iconic tourism brand. For more information on Regional Councils and Empire State Development, visit regionalcouncils.ny.gov and esd.ny.gov.

 About U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

The Department of Defense is America’s largest government agency. With the military tracing its roots back to pre-Revolutionary times, the department has grown and evolved with the nation. Their mission is to provide the military forces needed to deter war and ensure the nation’s security. https://www.defense.gov/

Media Mentions:

Times Union: Grants awarded for microelectronics