Microfabrication Technicians

High School

Microfabrication technicians must have a strong background in science, mathematics, and computer science to be a successful. Take courses in mathematics (geometry, trigonometry, and calculus), computer science (especially computer-aided design), and chemistry, biology, physics, and other science courses. English and speech classes will help you learn how to write reports and develop your public speaking and presentation skills.

Postsecondary Education

Many microfabrication technicians have associate’s degrees in laboratory science, engineering technology, materials science, biotechnology, chemistry, nanoscience, nanotechnology, biology, or related areas. Vocational-technical schools and community colleges offer associate degree programs and postsecondary certificates for electromechanical and related technicians. ABET accredits associate's and higher degree programs, and associate's degree programs usually include college algebra, trigonometry, and basic science courses. Technicians who earn an associate's degree from community college programs may concentrate in such fields and electromechanics and mechatronics, industrial maintenance, and process control.

Certification

The American Association for Clinical Chemistry offers 12 certificate programs in laboratory testing, technology, and management. Each program consists of four to eight courses. To learn more, visit https://www.aacc.org/education/online-certificate-programs.

Other Education or Training

Microfabrication technicians need to continue to learn throughout their careers in order to keep their skills up to date. Many professional associations offer webinars, seminars, conferences, workshops, and other continuing education opportunities. For example, MEMS & Sensors Industry Group offers webinars and conference sessions on computer-aided design, standards and testing, new and emerging technologies, manufacturing trends, intellectual property, and other topics. SPIE, which describes itself as an “international society advancing an interdisciplinary approach to the science and application of light,” offers courses such as “Laser Microfabrication Techniques,” “Optimization Methods for Lithographers,” and “Modeling and Computational Lithography Fundamentals.” Other associations that provide good resources include the American Institute of Physics, ASME, Association for Computing Machinery, IEEE Computer Society, Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, SME, and The Minerals, Metals & Materials Society.