Replace and upgrade outdated equipment at lorain county community college (lccc) that is used in the microelectronic manufacturing (mems) degree track and in the manufacturing electronics and rework…

This $500,000 Project Grant award from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) under the Congressionally-Identified Projects program (CFDA 11.617) will enable Lorain County Community College (LCCC) to replace and upgrade outdated equipment used in the college's microelectronic manufacturing (MEMS) degree track and Manufacturing Electronics and Rework Institute for Training (MERIT) laboratory. The upgraded equipment will allow LCCC to expand its capacity for applied, experiential learning opportunities that align with the needs of advanced manufacturing employers in the region. Specifically, the funds will be used to enhance LCCC's ability to provide hands-on training in areas such as PCB assembly, manufacturing, and other advanced manufacturing methods through programs like the Technology Readiness and Innovation Network (TRAIN) for Industry 4.0 companies. This project aims to better prepare LCCC students for careers in the advanced manufacturing sector and provide local employers with access to a well-trained workforce to meet their future needs.

Purpose

The purpose of this grant is to replace and upgrade outdated equipment at lorain county community college (lccc) that is used in the microelectronic manufacturing (mems) degree track and in the manufacturing electronics and rework institute for training (merit) laboratory.

Activities

Lccc will leverage the equipment procured under this grant and leverage other funding resources to expand capacity for applied, experiential learning for students that matches the demand from advanced manufacturing employers. Example programs that will use these capabilities include the technology readiness and innovation network (train) for industry 4.0 companies with employment opportunities while in training, and the merit program that provides hands-on training for PCB assembly, manufacturing, and other methods.

Expected outcomes

Students at lccc will have access to current state-of-the-art equipment to prepare them with hands-on training opportunities relevant to a broad range of advanced manufacturing companies. Lccc will increase its capacity to meet the demand from students and employers. Employers will have access to well-trained students to meet their future needs.

Intended beneficiaries

Lccc students and advanced manufacturing employers will benefit from the enhanced capabilities available within high-demand training courses.

Subrecipient activities

The recipient does not intend to subaward funds.