Pitt State offers new Workforce Academy, hands-on workshops in emerging technologies for a range of learners

PITTSBURG, Kan. - Individuals interested in building skills for high-growth careers in advanced manufacturing and emerging technologies will have a new opportunity through hands-on workshops offered by the National Institute for Materials Advancement (NIMA) at Pittsburg State University.

NIMA, located at the east edge of campus in the Research Park, is a global leader in bio-based materials and energy-related research. It acts as a lighthouse for recruiting high potential students and award-winning researchers and is focused on developing a highly sought-after technology-based workforce in the field of plastics, polymers, and electroactive materials.

The workshops are part of a new initiative called The Workforce Academy, designed to help participants from a wide range of educational and professional backgrounds gain practical experience, industry-relevant knowledge, and exposure to advanced technologies that are shaping the future workforce.

The workshops:

Participants may select either or both of the workshop tracks. Each are being offered on two dates:

• Workshop 1: Introduction to Semiconductor and Advanced Manufacturing Technologies, slated for Oct. 30 or Nov. 7

• Workshop 2: Battery Manufacturing and Energy Storage Technologies, Feb. 5 or Feb. 20

Both workshops will provide participants with hands-on learning experiences, an industry-relevant certificate upon completion, and a stipend ($150 for students; $250 for instructors and adult learners) to support participation. 

No previous research or lab experience is required. 

Through demonstrations, lab activities, equipment exposure, and applied learning experiences, participants will gain practical insight into technologies driving innovation across the semiconductor, materials, energy, and advanced manufacturing sectors.

Workshop attendees also will have access to NIMA's advanced facilities, learning in an environment supported by state-of-the-art instrumentation, laboratories, and prototype development capabilities.

"The program is designed to make advanced technology training accessible to anyone interested in expanding their technical skills, whether they are students, educators, workforce professionals, or adult learners,” said Associate Vice President for Research and Innovation Ram Gupta, who directs NIMA.

The Workforce Academy

The Workforce Academy is designed for:

• Community college and university students exploring high-demand STEM careers

• STEM, Career and Technical Education (CTE), and technical educators

• CTE instructors seeking professional development and curriculum insights

• Technicians and workforce professionals

• Adult learners and career changers looking to up-skill or re-enter the workforce

• Individuals preparing for careers in advanced manufacturing and related industries

• Professionals seeking to expand their technical skill sets

  
  To register:
  
  Space is limited and early registration is encouraged.
  
  For more information or to register, visit nima-psu.org/workforce-academy/or email [email protected]