SCALE K-12: Building the Future of Careers in Microelectronics
SCALE K-12 is a program dedicated to preparing students for careers in microelectronics (ME) by providing teachers and schools with the tools to create and implement engaging learning experiences centered around microelectronics concepts and contexts.
ABOUT US
Fostering Future Innovators
SCALE K-12 empowers students for microelectronics careers while engaging entire school systems to integrate microelectronics across K-12 education. Through curriculum development workshops and vertical alignment initiatives, teachers design modules and activities, fostering exposure and interest in microelectronics for diverse student backgrounds.
PROGRAM EXECUTION
Integrating Microelectronics Across Districts
Practically, SCALE K-12 works with targeted school districts to implement microelectronics integration across the entire school system. There are a few ways we plan to execute this:
for school districts to ensure students from Kindergarten to high school graduation are engaged with microelectronics
with teachers and university partners through summer workshops, interactive feedback loops, and support for implementation in the classroom
VIRTUAL PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
for teachers around the world to learn about the curriculum and get instruction to how to integrate microelectronics into their classrooms
for K-12 students to learn about microelectronics in an out-of-school setting
NOYCE ME MASTER TEACHER FELLOWS
for K-12 teachers to become district leaders in microelectronics integration
PROGRAM GOALS
Preparing Students for Microelectronic Careers
The goal of SCALE K-12 is to provide introduction & access to microelectronics, as well as develop interest & skills, through a variety of K-12 innovations: teacher and student programming, curriculum development, & nanoHUB online access.
Recent SCALE K-12 Resources
NEWS & EVENTS
What’s Happening with SCALE K-12
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Read our latest newsletter here
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Held June 1–19, 2026, at Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana, the INSPIRE Microelectronics Summer Camps engaged students entering grades 1–9 through a series of hands-on, week-long engineering experiences. Organized by the INSPIRE Research Institute for Pre-College Engineering in collaboration with Purdue’s Women in Engineering Program and the SCALE K–12 initiative, the camps introduced foundational concepts in engineering and microelectronics through interactive activities, including building projects, computational thinking exercises, and exposure to tools such as microelectronics concepts, programming, and design technologies. Rather than a traditional lecture-based format, campers explored engineering through collaborative problem-solving, design challenges, and real-world applications intended to spark early interest in STEM pathways and future careers in engineering.
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In May 2026, the INSPIRE program was featured in a Chip Kids episode filmed at Purdue University, highlighting creative approaches to introducing computer science concepts to young learners. In the episode, students explored how computers “think” by translating code into physical movement, using rhythm, dance, and logic to model computation. Through an interactive demonstration of a Turing machine—one of the earliest theoretical models of computation—the segment showcased how foundational computer science ideas can be taught through engaging, kinesthetic learning experiences that make abstract concepts more accessible to K–12 audiences.
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At the Purdue Polytechnic IN-MaC Design & Innovation Studio Summit, hands-on learning in microelectronics took center stage. Sessions highlighted classroom-ready strategies for integrating semiconductors into K–12 education, while also showcasing innovative cross-curricular approaches—such as combining microelectronics with English Language Arts—to create engaging, real-world learning experiences that prepare students for the future technology workforce.
OUR IMPACT
“SCALE K–12 has accelerated our ability to bring NASA mission science into classrooms across the country.” – Daniel Loveless
“I think students are really happy when they can see that their teachers are supported.” – Dr. Molly Goldstein
“Students are familiar with microelectronic products, but they don’t have a good understanding of how they work. SCALE K-12 sparks interest in microelectronics related careers.” – Dr. Rick Hill
“It’s amazing to see students go from unsure to deeply curious. SCALE K–12 sparks lasting interest in STEM.” – Allison Clegg
“My students are discovering engineering through SCALE K–12—something they might never have encountered otherwise.” – Mya Lorenz
“SCALE K-12 gives students real-world engineering experiences-from client challenges to hands-on tools like CNC machines.” - Justin Resler
“Watching students blend STEM with storytelling—coding, creating, and communicating like professionals—has made SCALE K–12 the highlight of their school year.” – Anthony Price
“Coming back for a second year, I feel confident and excited to teach microelectronics—thanks to SCALE K–12’s hands-on learning and supportive community.” – Kim Wright
“This program revealed just how many microelectronics careers are within reach—and I can’t wait to share that with my students.” – Ivonne Alarcon
“Bringing cutting-edge tech into my band classroom through SCALE K–12 is opening doors my students never expected.” – Katelyn Helms