Talking Technicians

S06-E02 Ashley is an RDA process technician at Micron

Ashley is an RDA process technician at Micron in Manassas, Virginia. Ashley describes her role in inspecting wafers for imperfections and ensuring high-quality chips. She works shifts from Wednesday to Saturday, earning a starting wage of $20-$25 per hour, with potential differentials for night shifts. Benefits include excellent healthcare and retirement plans. Ashley emphasizes the importance of communication and adaptability, crediting her community college education and internship at Micron for her success. She advises students to try new experiences and not be afraid to explore different career paths.The Talking Technicians podcast is produced by MNT-EC, the Micro Nano Technology Education Center, through financial support from the National Science Foundation's Advanced Technological Education grant program.Opinions expressed on this podcast do not necessarily represent those of the National Science Foundation.Join the conversation. If you are a working technician or know someone who is, reach out to us at info@talkingtechnicians.org.Links from the show:Episode Web Page:https://micronanoeducation.org/students-parents/talking-technicians-podcast/Careers at Micron: https://www.micron.com/about/careers

S06-E01 Joey is a Equipment Engineer at Micron

In this episode of Talking Technicians you’ll meet Joey, an equipment engineer at Micron in Boise, Idaho. Joey details his professional journey from being a technician to an engineer, the operations at Micron, and the skills required to excel in the semiconductor industry. Joey shares insights on salary expectations, benefits, and the importance of both technical and soft skills in the workplace. Hear Joey’s insightful advice for aspiring technicians and engineers.The Talking Technicians podcast is produced by MNT-EC, the Micro Nano Technology Education Center, through financial support from the National Science Foundation's Advanced Technological Education grant program.Opinions expressed on this podcast do not necessarily represent those of the National Science Foundation.Join the conversation. If you are a working technician or know someone who is, reach out to us at info@talkingtechnicians.org.Links from the show:Episode Web Page:https://micronanoeducation.org/students-parents/talking-technicians-podcast/Careers at Micron: https://www.micron.com/about/careers

S05-E10 Jose is a technician at KNI

Jose, a technician at the Kavli Nanoscience Institute (KNI) at Caltech, discusses his role in microfabrication, using equipment like ellipsometers and atomic force microscopes. He describes his daily routine, including wearing a bunny suit for safety. Jose shares his educational journey, starting from Pasadena City College, and his plans to transfer and work in a clean room. He highlights the unexpected challenges of learning new techniques and the impact of the East Canyon fire on his family, which forced them to relocate. Despite these challenges, Jose continues his studies and work, emphasizing the importance of extracurricular involvement and resilience.The Talking Technicians podcast is produced by MNT-EC, the Micro Nano Technology Education Center, through financial support from the National Science Foundation's Advanced Technological Education grant program.Opinions expressed on this podcast do not necessarily represent those of the National Science Foundation.Join the conversation. If you are a working technician or know someone who is, reach out to us at info@talkingtechnicians.org.Links from the show:Episode Web Page:https://micronanoeducation.org/students-parents/talking-technicians-podcast/Kavli Nanoscience Institute (KNI) at Caltech:https://kni.caltech.edu/

S05-E09 Justin is a test engineer at Entegris

Justin, a test engineer at Entegris in Prior Lake, Minnesota, discusses his career progression from working as technician to becoming an engineer. As a test engineer, Justin tests materials and designs using metrology and microscopy. Previously, Justin worked as an applications technician at Optima, where he demonstrated aerosol jet technology to customers. Justin emphasizes the importance of hands-on experience, networking, and building relationships. He advises current students to gain practical skills, pursue their interests, and consider community colleges for cost-effective educational experiences.The Talking Technicians podcast is produced by MNT-EC, the Micro Nano Technology Education Center, through financial support from the National Science Foundation's Advanced Technological Education grant program.Opinions expressed on this podcast do not necessarily represent those of the National Science Foundation.Join the conversation. If you are a working technician or know someone who is, reach out to us at info@talkingtechnicians.org.Links from the show:Episode Web Page:https://micronanoeducation.org/students-parents/talking-technicians-podcast/Careers at Entegris: https://www.entegris.com/careers

S05-E08 Logan is a Quality Tech 3 at Renewal by Andersen

Logan is a Quality Tech 3 at Renewal by Anderson in Ellsworth, Wisconsin. Logan highlights career development opportunities at Anderson, including promotions to technologist positions. Logan notes that technicians can earn around $25 an hour and can secure benefits like 401(k) plans and PTO. Logan contrasts his experience at a large company with his previous role at a small firm. Hear how Logan emphasizes the importance of asking questions, critical thinking, and independence, learned from his nanotechnology program at Dakota County Technical College. Logan advises aspiring technicians to gain experience and consider furthering their education.The Talking Technicians podcast is produced by MNT-EC, the Micro Nano Technology Education Center, through financial support from the National Science Foundation's Advanced Technological Education grant program.Opinions expressed on this podcast do not necessarily represent those of the National Science Foundation.Join the conversation. If you are a working technician or know someone who is, reach out to us at info@talkingtechnicians.org.Links from the show:Episode Web Page:https://micronanoeducation.org/students-parents/talking-technicians-podcast/Jobs at Renewal by Anderson: https://www.renewalbyandersen.com/careers