Staff photo / R. Michael Semple Evan Wilson of Liberty, a student employee at Kent State University at Trumbull, mentors students in the field of electrical/electronic engineering technology studies during the Engineering Technology Student Showcase on Friday morning. A Tech & Trade Open House took place later in the day.

CHAMPION — In celebration of National Engineers Week, which ends Saturday, Kent State University at Trumbull hosted two events on Friday highlighting its electrical/electronic engineering technology and mechanical engineering technology programs, and the growing demand for skilled technicians in advanced manufacturing and semiconductor industries.

The campus welcomed high school students from Kent Roosevelt, Hudson, Tallmadge, Stow, Woodridge and Cuyahoga Falls for a morning Engineering Technology Showcase, followed by a public Tech & Trade Open House.

The day began with a presentation outlining Kent State Trumbull’s engineering technology pathways. Students then rotated through six specialized laboratories, where they witnessed live demonstrations of:

• A HAAS CNC milling machine performing high-precision machining.

• Vacuum systems in operation.

• Robotics applications.

• 3D printing technologies.

• Photolithography processes used in semiconductor manufacturing.

Students from Franklin Roosevelt High School in Kent also participated in an expanded lab experience led by associate professor Flavia Inbanathan, Ph.D., that offered deeper exposure to semiconductor and microelectronics applications.

Later in the day, KSU Trumbull hosted a Tech & Trade Open House showcasing its engineering technology and semiconductor programs. The event was designed for high school students, adult learners and local employers interested in workforce development and employee training opportunities.

Visitors toured mechanical engineering technology labs, including the state-of-the-art HAAS CNC machine, and participated in interactive demonstrations within the microelectronics and semiconductor manufacturing labs. Faculty and staff were available to discuss academic programs, career pathways and flexible credential options.

At KSU Trumbull, students can earn two-year Associate of Applied Science degrees in electrical/electronic engineering technology and mechanical engineering technology. These programs articulate into the Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology degree with two additional years of full-time study offered through the Tuscarawas Campus.

The Trumbull campus also offers undergraduate certificates in semiconductor manufacturing technician, advanced semiconductor manufacturing technician, computer-aided drafting, along with microcredentials in 3D printing, drafting and design, electrical technician and introduction to semiconductors for STEM majors.

“We’re always excited to welcome local students who want to explore what our engineering programs have to offer,” said Peggy Shadduck, Ph.D., vice president of Kent State’s Regional Campuses and dean of the College of Applied and Technical Studies. “The industries our graduates serve are growing rapidly across the region, and we’re committed to preparing a highly skilled workforce to meet those evolving demands.

“Our engineering and semiconductor programs, certificates and pathways are designed to prepare students for high-demand careers powering today’s advanced technologies and tomorrow’s breakthroughs. With hands-on learning, industry-aligned curriculum and flexible options, students can build skills that translate directly to the workforce or continued study.”