Sign in Subscribe
College faculty

NSF Grant Supports Nanofabrication Workforce Training

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The National Science Foundation (NSF) has awarded George Mason University a nearly $1 million grant to establish a program providing hands-on nanofabrication training and education to individuals seeking a career change. The program aims to expand experiential learning pathways in emerging hardware technologies driven by nanofabrication, with a focus on increasing workforce opportunities in Northern Virginia.

Key Takeaways:

  • The program provides hands-on nanofabrication training and education to individuals seeking a career change, with a focus on emerging technology sectors such as artificial intelligence hardware, quantum information science, data center engineering, and sustainable manufacturing.
  • The program is funded by the NSF's ExLENT Pivots track, which aims to expand experiential learning pathways in emerging hardware technologies driven by nanofabrication.
  • The program will serve the national interest by increasing workforce opportunities in Northern Virginia, a region positioned for growth in emerging technology sectors.
  • The program will provide an opportunity for working professionals to change careers, even those with no STEM background are encouraged to apply.
  • Participants will receive training with both lab and soft skills, connections with industry, and a guaranteed interview with partnering companies such as BAE Systems, General Dynamics, and Northrop Grumman.
  • The program will award microcredentials, competency-based qualifications indicating a mastery of a subject, as participants complete each phase of the program.
  • The program will run for three years, with approximately 20 participants every year, and will welcome its first cohort in spring 2026.

Statistics:

  • The NSF grant award is for nearly $1 million.
  • The program aims to increase workforce opportunities in Northern Virginia, a region positioned for growth in emerging technology sectors.
  • The program will provide training to approximately 20 participants every year for three years.
  • The program will have a guaranteed interview with partnering companies for program participants.
  • The network of university and industry connections via the Innovation District provides a unique opportunity for collaboration and growth.

Sources:

  • George Mason University news release: "NSF grant supports nanofabrication workforce training"
  • National Science Foundation (NSF)
  • "ExLENT Pivots" program
  • Innovation District
  • BAE Systems
  • General Dynamics
  • Northrop Grumman
  • Virginia Economic Development Partnership

Read more