March 23, 2001 — KENT, OH — Kent State University will offer a program that will give people insight into the world of cleanrooms, teaching everything from gowning up in a bunny suit to learning how to work under strict validation guidelines.

A Technology Action Fund grant helped to get the program off the ground.

In an effort to get more students and other adults involved in the high-tech industry, KSU approached the state of Ohio for a $200,000 grant, which will be paid over two years. With the help of participating companies, the University was able to match those funds and establish an educational cleanroom at the University?s Liquid Crystal Institute (LCI). Collaborating with the University is its College of Continuing Studies.

?In Ohio, and nation wide, there is a very real need for improved training for high technology industries,” says Professor Michael Fisch of the LCI. “Kent State University has the resources and regional impact via its eight-campus system to systematically address this need.”

Under the guidance Professor Fisch, students will attend presentations, including: basics of liquid crystal materials, operation of LCDs, techniques to working in a cleanroom and photolithography. Between the presentations, participants will suit-up and receive hands-on experience.