The Florida Semiconductor Institute (FSI) at the University of Florida has entered into a research agreement with tech giant L3Harris Technologies focused on next-generation microelectronics. The three-year, $1.2 million Alliance for Strategic Semiconductor and Electronics Technologies (ASSET) agreement was made possible with matching investments from L3Harris and UF. The goal of this initiative is to accelerate the commercialization of innovative defense technologies, and support workforce development through hands-on training of Ph.D. students by providing… Read more: FSI embarks on $1.2 M collaboration with L3Harris
The Florida Semiconductor Institute (FSI) has officially added the Novel Performance-Driven 3D Imaging System for Extremely Noisy Objects (NPIX) to the FSI Lab—ushering in a new era of precision imaging and inspection. Designed to overcome the limitations of traditional non-destructive testing, the NPIX system brings unparalleled 3D internal inspection capabilities for “noisy,” dense, and geometrically complex structures. This state-of-the-art technology will significantly enhance research across multiple disciplines including microelectronics hardware security, medical diagnostics, agriculture,… Read more: FSI Unveils New NPIX X-ray System for Advanced Imaging Research
Please join us in welcoming Istiaq Shiam, to the FSI team! We are excited to have Istiaq onboard as an Engineer II. Istiaq brings a strong background in semiconductor fabrication, equipment maintenance, and process optimization. He holds an M.S. in Electrical Engineering from Texas State University, where he specialized in semiconductor material processing and characterization. He has worked extensively with semiconductor processing equipment, including MOCVD, MBE, HFCVD, and various characterization tools like… Read more: Please Join Us in Welcoming Istiaq Shiam to the FSI Team
Taste of Tech Seminar Series 03/28/2025 Lunch will be provided during the seminar Time 11:45 AM – 1:00 PM (EST) Physically Attending Location Malachowsky Hall, Room 7200 For in-person attendees, pre-register here: https://fsi.institute.ufl.edu/fsi-seminar-registration/ Virtually Attending https://ufl.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_fX4dOZ3pRKWJCsYkKmeRzg Taste of Tech Seminar Details Talk 1: Quantum spintronics pathway towards scalability and energy efficiency Speaker: Yingying WuAssistant Professor, University of Florida About the Speaker: Dr. Yingying Wu has been an assistant professor in ECE at… Read more: Quantum Spintronics Pathway towards Scalability and Energy Efficiency | From Shear Stress to Spatial Apps- Everything I Needed To Know I Learned During my PhD
Taste of Tech Seminar Series 04/18/2025 Lunch will be provided during the seminar Time 11:45 AM – 1:00 PM (EST) Physically Attending Location Malachowsky Hall, Room 7200 For in-person attendees, pre-register here: https://fsi.institute.ufl.edu/fsi-seminar-registration/ Virtually Attending https://ufl.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Z9QkaiTfRgaUOJCPjHdzPA Taste of Tech Seminar Details Talk 1: Interdisciplinary Convergent Research and Education for Semiconductor Workforce Speaker: Ashok KumarProfessor, University of South Florida About the Speaker: Ashok Kumar, Ph.D., a professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering,… Read more: Interdisciplinary Convergent Research and Education for Semiconductor Workforce | Accelerating Photonic Integration
The Florida Semiconductor Institute (FSI) invites teachers and students across the state to participate in an exciting statewide STEM challenge! This is a valuable opportunity to incorporate semiconductor-focused modules into STEM programs across the state, with the added incentive of competing for recognition and prizes. The Big Question: “How do semiconductors shape our world, and how can YOU be part of the future of this industry?” How It Works 1. Register Your… Read more: Chip in Florida: K-12 Semiconductor Education Challenge
With a string of rocket launches nearly 60 miles to the north, hundreds of industry leaders, scientists and educators gathered on Florida’s Space Coast last week to assess the state’s foothold in semiconductor production. Hosted by the Florida Semiconductor Institute and tech giant/defense contractor L3Harris, the 2025 Florida Semiconductor Summit analyzed a boundless industry that is struggling to keep up with demand and talent. “Two themes stood out—momentum and opportunity,” said David… Read more: Semiconductor Summit celebrates Florida’s momentum in chip manufacturing, addresses workforce gaps
Taste of Tech Seminar Series 03/07/2025 Lunch will be provided during the seminar Time 11:45 AM – 1:00 PM (EST) Physically Attending Location Malachowsky Hall, Room 7200 Virtually Attending https://ufl.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_tmjZ-K_7TA6xszSQg9yohA Taste of Tech Seminar Details Talk 1: Virtual and Augmented Reality for Future Workforce Training and Experiential Learning Speaker: Hyo KangAssistant Professor, Digital Worlds Institute, University of Florida About the Speaker: Hyo Kang is an assistant professor at the Digital Worlds Institute… Read more: Virtual and Augmented Reality for Future Workforce Training and Experiential Learning | The Economics of Tariffs
🏆 2025 Student Poster Competition Winners Announced! 🏆 We are excited to announce the winners of the 2025 Florida Semiconductor Summit Student Poster Competition! This year, we had a tie for first place, highlighting the exceptional research presented at the summit. First Place (Tie): Eric Bissell, University of Central FloridaPoster Number: 3Abstract Title: Atomic Layer Deposition on Powders for Precisely Engineered Microstructure and Composition Control of Sintered CeramicsContributing Authors: Eric Bissell, Steven… Read more: 2025 Florida Semiconductor Summit Student Posters
Attention Florida High School Teachers! Join us for an engaging 2-day workshop where you’ll discover the IGNITE program and explore how to master advanced manufacturing techniques. Learn the framework for integrating these cutting-edge skills into your high school’s advanced manufacturing curriculum, and empower your students for future success in the industry. The IGNITE Mastering Advanced Manufacturing Program is a comprehensive series of courses created by LIFT, one of the 16 national Manufacturing… Read more: Join us for an IGNITE Mastering Advanced Manufacturing Workshop
We’re excited to invite you to celebrate the opening of our new offices at NeoCity in Osceola County! The event will kick off with a Coffee and Conversation panel featuring Dr. David Arnold, Director of FSI, who will share insights on the groundbreaking work FSI is doing to strengthen the semiconductor industry here in Florida. Following the discussion, we’ll officially mark the occasion with a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the expansion of… Read more: Ribbon-Cutting Event Unveiling FSI’s NeoCity Offices
Last week, the student-led UF Semiconductor Career Readiness Organization (SCRO) hosted its annual SCROcase event at Malachowsky Hall. The event offered students an exclusive opportunity to dive into the semiconductor industry through a series of engaging presentations and a networking session with leading industry professionals. Attendees gained valuable insights into potential internship opportunities and learned about the diverse career paths the semiconductor sector has to offer. More than 65 students participated, with… Read more: UF Semiconductor Career Readiness Organization Hosts Annual SCROcase Event
We are excited to welcome Dr. Roseanne Perez to the Florida Semiconductor Institute (FSI) as a Workforce Development Program Specialist. Dr. Perez is a dedicated educator and workforce development specialist with extensive experience in Career and Technical Education (CTE). She holds a Doctor of Education from St. Leo University and has served in various leadership roles, including Assistant Principal in Title I schools, where she successfully implemented CTE programs and established industry partnerships to create meaningful internship opportunities… Read more: FSI Welcomes Dr. Roseanne Perez as Its New Workforce Development Program Specialist
This community event at NeoCity provides the opportunity to explore interactive demos and hands-on activities in STEM with local businesses, organizations, and educational institutions! Students will learn more about semiconductors, digital twins, robotics, manufacturing, and more!
Today, LocatorX, the trusted provider of secure IoT sensors and supply chain data visibility, announced the relocation of its headquarters to NeoCity, Central Florida’s premier technology and innovation district. This strategic move underscores the company’s commitment to fostering innovation, collaboration, and growth in a dynamic tech ecosystem. Originally founded in 2014 in Jacksonville, LocatorX moved its headquarters to Atlanta where it has continued to operate for a decade. With product enhancements focused… Read more: LocatorX Moves Headquarters to NeoCity, FL, Accelerating Commitment to Innovation and Growth
We are excited to welcome Erica Alvarez as our new Administrative Assistant to the FSI team. With a background in organizational management, attention to detail, and exceptional communication skills, Erica will play a key role in supporting the institute’s operations. She is eager to contribute to a collaborative environment, streamline processes, and ensure seamless operations, enabling the institute to continue driving innovation. Erica brings a wealth of skills and enthusiasm to the… Read more: Please Join us in Welcoming Erica Alvarez to the FSI team!
The University of Florida Board of Trustees’ Governance, Government Relations and Internal Affairs Committee approved a recommendation to select the area around the Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center as the site of its new campus in Jacksonville, Chair Mori Hosseini announced today. The full Board will vote on Friday. The site, the selection of which is subject to additional due diligence, includes at least 22 acres of buildable land near the location… Read more: UF moves forward with site for new campus in Jacksonville
As the semiconductor industry rapidly evolves in Florida, continuous skill and knowledge enhancement is essential for the workforce. Fortunately, a new partnership between two Florida innovators will help create opportunities for individuals to secure high-wage jobs in the semiconductor industry in the state, ultimately transforming lives and strengthening communities. The Florida Semiconductor Institute (FSI) and AmSkills, Inc. (AmSkills) are excited to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at… Read more: FSI and AmSkills Partner to Boost Florida’s Semiconductor Workforce
Nov. 19, 2024 — The University of Florida will lead one of seven regional hubs of a new, $285 million nationwide institute dedicated to advancing America’s semiconductor industry through next-generation simulations known as digital twins. Volker Sorger, Ph.D., the Walden and Paula Rhines Endowed Professor of Semiconductor Photonics in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at UF, will direct the Florida/Caribbean hub of the SMART USA Institute. Led by the Semiconductor Research Corporation,… Read more: University of Florida to lead hub for $285 million semiconductor research institute
Taste of Tech Seminar Series 11/22/2024 Lunch will be provided during the seminar Time 11:45 AM – 1:00 PM (EST) Physically Attending Location Larsen Hall Room 234 For in-person attendees, please register here. Virtually Attending https://ufl.zoom.us/j/99992568632 Talk 1: Dr. David Mills is currently a Principal Engineer and the President of Interdisciplinary Consulting Corporation (IC2). Prior to joining IC2 in 2014, he earned his M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in mechanical engineering from the University… Read more: Taste of Tech Seminar: IC2’s Case for Steady, Sustainable Growth in the Tech Sector | Digital Twins – Revolutionizing Semiconductor Industry and Innovation
Today, the Florida Semiconductor Institute (FSI) released a strategic semiconductor workforce report, titled ”Analysis of Pre-Baccalaureate Workforce for Florida’s Semiconductor Industry.” This report analyzed and quantified emergent semiconductor-related job demand through 2030 and identified clear strengths in Florida’s workforce training pipelines. This report is one element of a comprehensive effort to support the semiconductor industry in the state. Florida currently ranks fifth nationally for the number of semiconductor manufacturing employees, third nationally for number… Read more: Semiconductor Workforce Report Reveals Strength in Florida’s Technical Talent Pipeline
Mark your calendars – You’re invited to the 2025 Florida Semiconductor Summit! On February 25-27, 2025, the Florida Semiconductor Institute is hosting the second annual Florida Semiconductor Summit at the L3Harris High Technology Center. This year’s summit theme is “Looking Skyward: Semiconductors in Aerospace and Defense.” This summit offers a unique opportunity to connect with industry leaders, explore cutting-edge advancements, and delve into the evolving role of semiconductors in aerospace and defense. What… Read more: Save the Date for the Florida Semiconductor Summit
We are excited to invite you to the Bridging Innovation: Research & Workforce Development Forum on Tuesday, November 5, at NeoCity, hosted by the NSF Central Florida Semiconductor Innovation Engine (CFSIE). This one-day event will feature two dynamic sessions designed to foster collaboration and innovation in the semiconductor industry. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage in important dialogue to drive innovation and workforce development in the semiconductor industry. Learn more and register below! Agenda 9 a.m. –… Read more: Bridging Innovation: Research & Workforce Development Forum
Join us for an engaging one-day event designed to empower educators, administrators, and guidance counselors with the tools and knowledge to integrate semiconductors and STEM career opportunities into the classroom. Through interactive sessions, hands-on activities, and expert-led discussions, you’ll explore how the semiconductor industry is shaping the future and how your students can benefit from this exciting field. This event offers dedicated tracks based on your role and school level, providing tailored… Read more: K-20 Semiconductor Professional Development Day
The CHIPS Metrology Program, one of the CHIPS for America Research and Development programs, is excited to bring a special half-day workshop to the IEEE PAINE 2024 conference on the afternoon of November 13. This session will feature short presentations from a sample of the more than 40 funded CHIPS Metrology research projects at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). In these presentations, you will learn more about these select funded research… Read more: Join us for a Special Session on CHIPS Metrology Projects Related to Microelectronics Advanced Packaging, Inspection, and Reliability
Last week, we hosted the first Florida Semiconductor Institute (FSI) Industry Mixer in Malachowsky Hall. The event provided students with the opportunity to network with semiconductor industry professionals and we were thrilled to welcome over 27 industry representatives and over 130 students. The event kicked off with opening remarks from FSI Deputy Director Dr. Jack Judy and was followed by a panel discussion with industry representatives from Micron, SkyWater Technology, L3Harris, and Samsung Semiconductor. During the… Read more: Florida Semiconductor Institute Hosts its First Industry Mixer
Last week, the NSF Engines: Central Florida Semiconductor Innovation Engine (the Engine) hosted a two-day site visit for the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) near Kissimmee, Florida. During the visit, partners shared their progress toward the collective vision for the Engine and highlighted its newly constructed facilities and research labs. The NSF Engines: Central Florida Semiconductor Innovation Engine is one of 10 inaugural NSF Regional Innovation Engines and the only one with… Read more: Central Florida Semiconductor Innovation Engine Hosts the U.S. National Science Foundation for Two-Day Site Visit
We are thrilled to announce that Naomi Villa has joined us as the new Marketing and Communications Specialist at the Florida Semiconductor Institute (FSI). Naomi brings a wealth of knowledge and innovation to our team, with a solid background in science communication and experience in spearheading marketing and communications initiatives for National Institutes of Health-funded research grants. Her experience includes developing strategic communication plans, managing multi-channel campaigns, and writing compelling scientific content. Her unique approach to translating complex scientific concepts into compelling narratives will be a great asset as we continue to promote cutting-edge research and initiatives within the semiconductor industry.
On Wednesday, September 11, 2024, The Florida Semiconductor Institute (FSI) and Smart Automation Certification Alliance (SACA) formalized a partnership by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This partnership will synergize academic rigor, subject-matter experts, and industry guidance to develop the first-in-the-nation industry-recognized credential for semiconductors.
FSI and SACA each recognize the important roles they hold in co-creating new semiconductor and electronics industry credentials that address both current and emerging technologies. Together, FSI and SACA will engage with industry and academic experts to integrate their input into the credentialing program, collaborate on promotional activities to raise awareness of the new credentials, and foster industry participation and adoption.
Taste of Tech Seminar Series 09/20/24 Lunch will be provided during the seminar Time 11:45 AM – 1:00 PM (EST) Physically Attending Location Larsen Hall Room 234 For in-person attendees, pre-registration is closed. If you would like to attend, join us at Larsen Hall, Room 234. Virtually Attending ZOOM LINKhttps://ufl.zoom.us/j/92630526504Please note that this Zoom Link has been UPDATED Talk 1: John Stone is an NVIDIA Distinguished Engineer, with extensive expertise in scientific… Read more: Taste of Tech Seminar: Digital Twins with AI, GPU Computing, and Omniverse | Advances in Wide- and Ultrawide-Bandgap Materials
We are excited to introduce Beline Lafayette as the newest addition to the Florida Semiconductor Institute (FSI) team, serving as our Event Coordinator. With over seven years of diverse experience in the hospitality industry, Beline excels in event and conference planning, industry engagement, and marketing. Her extensive background has equipped her with the necessary skills to manage high-profile events, establish strategic partnerships, and execute impactful marketing campaigns. In addition to her event… Read more: Please Join Us in Welcoming Beline Lafayette to the FSI Team!
Join us for the FSI Semiconductor Industry Mixer, an exclusive evening event where students interested in semiconductor careers can connect with industry professionals. Speak with employers from Astera Labs, Samsung Semiconductor, Sandia National Laboratories, SkyWater Technology, FloridaMakes, Concept Companies, and more! This mixer also offers a unique opportunity for organizations to engage with future talent in an informal, educational setting. Employers will have the opportunity to share their insights on career paths,… Read more: Join us for the Florida Semiconductor Institute Industry Mixer
Florida is evolving into a prominent hub for innovation and industrial expansion. Experiencing a unique economic shift, the manufacturing impact in Florida’s economy surpassed the contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of many other strong industries that Florida is usually known for, including– tourism, agriculture, and transportation.
Taste of Tech Seminar Series 08/30/24 Lunch will be provided during the seminar Time 11:45 AM – 1:00 PM Physically Attending Location Larsen Hall Room 234 Room: 234 Virtually Attending ZOOM LINK Talk 1: Join us for an exciting talk by Dr. Anna Herr. Dr. Herr has been the Scientific Director at Imec since May 2021. Prior to this she was a Northrop Grumman Fellow since 2015 and Advisory Engineer at Northrop… Read more: Taste of Tech: Superconducting Devices & RFICs | SCRO
As the new Assistant Director of Workforce Development and with a rich background in Career and Technical Education since 2010, Sophia has made significant strides in workforce development, most notably through her leadership in the establishment of Wilton Simpson Technical College. During her tenure, she created over 20 new programs and secured over $19,000,000 in external funding to support these initiatives. Her expertise in establishing and maintaining partnerships with K-12 systems, colleges, government bodies, and industry stakeholders has been instrumental in fostering community and workforce development.
Join us for an exciting talk by Dr. John L. Volakis, Professor in the College of Engineering and Computing at Florida International University (FIU), who will present on “Digital Twin Models for High Density Heterogeneous Packaging RF/mm-Wave Transceivers.”
Additionally, Dr. Toshikazu Nishida, Professor in the College of Electrical and Computer Engineering and Associate Chair of Research at the University of Florida’s Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering, will discuss “Collaborating at the Edge – A Tale of Two IUCRCs.”
The Florida Semiconductor Institute (FSI) and Amatrol have teamed up to revolutionize semiconductor education in Florida. The partnership was formalized with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), marking a significant milestone.
Join us for two exciting presentations: Dr. Reza Abdolvand will highlight UCF’s contributions to space science and future advancements in space exploration. Jessica Gomez, founder and CEO of Rogue Valley Microdevices, will discuss innovations in MEMS foundry technologies and their revolutionary impact on various industries.
In an exciting new partnership, Midas Immersion Cooling (Midas), a leading innovator in immersion cooling solutions, has teamed up with the University of Florida’s Semiconductor Institute (FSI) to push the boundaries of semiconductor and immersion cooling technology. This collaboration is set to transform the landscape of semiconductor cooling through cutting-edge research and development. Midas has generously donated advanced immersion cooling equipment valued at approximately $227,540 to Dr. Hamed Dalir’s lab at UF,… Read more: Midas Immersion Cooling Collaborates with Dr. Dalir’s Lab at the University of Florida’s Semiconductor Institute to Revolutionize Immersion Cooling Technology
On July 1, the Biden-Harris Administration announced that the U.S. Department of Commerce and Rogue Valley Microdevices (RVM) have signed a non-binding preliminary memorandum of terms (PMT) to provide up to $6.7 million in proposed direct funding under the CHIPS and Science Act.
Join us for an exciting presentation by Dale Miller, Florida Vice President and General Manager at SkyWater Technology Foundry, as he delves into cutting-edge packaging technologies like Interposer, Hybrid Bonding, and Fan-Out Wafer Level Packaging developed at SkyWater’s Florida location.
Don’t miss Dr. Gloria Kim, Assistant Professor at the University of Florida, as she shares groundbreaking insights from her extramurally-funded research at the intersection of chips, education, and global partnerships.
Join us for the FSI “Taste of Tech” Seminar at the Nanoscale Research Facility (NRF), Room 115. Friday May 24, 11:45 AM – 1:00 PM
Unlock Frontiers: Explore with UF Professor Mark Sheplak, collaborators, Dr. Roozbeh Tabrizian and Dr. Philip Feng, technology development towards monolithically-integrated dynamic pressure sensors for operation in high temperature environments up to 800 C as part of a 6.6M$ DARPA project in collaboration with NASA Glenn Research Center and EngeniusMicro.
Visionary Insights: Hear from Dr. David Arnold, Acting Director of FSI, as he unveils our bold vision for the Florida Semiconductor Institute, where collaboration sparks transformative breakthroughs.
A team of researchers, led by Dr. Mark Sheplak, Dr. Roozbeh Tabrizian, and Dr. Philip Feng aim to overcome the challenge of existing sensors faltering under extreme temperatures.
Governor Ron DeSantis has proposed an $80 million investment for the University of Florida’s Florida Semiconductor Institute (FSI) in the upcoming 2024 legislative session.