SS 1.3: Training Idaho’s next wave of tech talent

Feng Li is the Micron Endowed Professor of Microelectronics at University of Idaho and director of the Next Generation Microelectronics Research Center. He’s helping shape the future of semiconductors — not just through research, but by training the next generation of skilled workers Idaho’s tech industry needs. Li studies high-temperature devices that can withstand the extreme heat of space missions, geothermal systems and supersonic flight, while giving students hands-on experience in microchip fabrication and clean room technology.

Email us at vandaltheory@uidaho.edu.

Building Idaho’s semiconductor future

Li’s research into wide-bandgap semiconductors is opening doors to electronics that can operate in environments up to 600°C. These capabilities are crucial for enhanced geothermal energy systems, supersonic aircraft and space missions to planets like Venus, where heat would destroy conventional chips. But for Idaho, the impact goes beyond the lab — Li’s work is a pipeline for talent.

Through hands‑on training in chip design, fabrication and testing, students gain experience in University of Idaho’s clean rooms and research labs, preparing them to step directly into semiconductor careers. Li partners with Micron engineers to align classroom instruction with real industry needs, develop joint research projects and bring guest lectures and mentorship opportunities to campus. U of I is expanding lab facilities and offering new semiconductor certificate programs to meet the demand, ensuring Idaho produces the skilled workforce needed for its growing high‑tech sector. By combining cutting‑edge research with direct workforce development, Li and his team are helping secure a resilient, innovation‑driven future for the state.

Music

“Young Republicans” by Steve Combs via freemusicarchive.org, not modified.

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction
(01:28) High-temperature electronics
(02:25) Implications of high-temp tech
(03:35) Working with Micron
(05:36) Building a high-demand workforce