Education


The world is undergoing a fourth industrial revolution—Industry 4.0. Cyber-physical systems, big data and machine learning (ML), and advanced automation present opportunities for students to build needed skills, and Purdue has taken the lead in employing disruptive innovations and new pathways in education.

It's projected that 2.1 million manufacturing jobs could go unfilled by 2030, according to a study by Deloitte and The Manufacturing Institute, the workforce development and education partner of the National Academy of Manufacturing (NAM). In the next five years, a minimum of 50,000 trained semiconductor engineers will be needed in the U.S. to meet rapidly growing demand.

Purdue is leading the way:

  • Continuous learning and skill development opportunities to gain expertise in areas like additive manufacturing, automation, data analytics, and ML — highly sought-after skills in industry.
  • Internships and industry-sponsored projects that provide valuable, real-world experience and networking opportunities.
  • Interdisciplinary education combining elements of engineering, materials science, computer science and business management. A chance to develop a diverse skill set.
  • Mentoring from world-class faculty and business leaders.
  • Addressing sustainability and environmental impacts through advanced manufacturing practices that focus on resource efficiency, waste reduction, and sustainable manufacturing techniques.
  • Semiconductors
  • Why Interdisciplinary Engineering?
  • #1 Ranked Engineering Management Graduate Online Program
  • Semiconductors Workforce Development
  • IN-MaC Education

Hear what CEOs say about Purdue's leadership in training a new workforce

"As one of the world's leading semiconductor manufacturers based in the U.S., GlobalFoundries strongly supports the efforts to grow U.S.-based semiconductor manufacturing. We recognize that to accomplish this goal, the shortage of semiconductor talent in the U.S. is a critical challenge the nation must address. I am pleased and encouraged to see Purdue University step up to this challenge by introducing a comprehensive set of degrees and credentials that will prepare students for exciting careers in semiconductors. We look forward to partnering with Purdue as these programs ramp up to support microelectronics across the U.S."

—Thomas Caulfield, CEO and President, GlobalFoundries

"Semiconductor manufacturing requires a vast array of highly engineered and advanced materials and chemistries. CMC Materials and other leading materials companies look forward to supporting the expansion of semiconductors in the United States and globally. For the bold innovation in critical materials that is needed to advance technology and increase performance, a new generation of semiconductor engineers is critically needed. Purdue's new degrees and credentials will help students develop the depth and breadth needed for an exciting new era of technology that is just beginning."

—David Li, President and CEO, CMC Materials

"Electronics is more and more often the differentiating factor in products, but the cost and complexity of design is exploding. As Efabless works to make custom chip design affordable and accessible to more companies, a critical challenge is the shortage of microelectronic talent. I applaud Purdue University for stepping up to this challenge. Purdue's new degrees and credentials meet prospective talent where they are with education and opportunity. This will help the next generation of students develop the knowledge, skills, and experience needed for an exciting new era of electronics."

—Mike Wishart, CEO, Efabless