A good way to learn more about the field is to interview microfabrication technicians about their careers. Ask your school's career services office for assistance with setting up informational interviews by phone, video chat, or in person. Prepare for the interview with a list of questions you have about this type of work and how the technicians got their start. Some examples:
- What classes did you take in high school and college to prepare for this career?
- What are some of the pros and cons of your job?
- What are the most important personal and professional qualities for people in your career?
- What’s the best way to break into the field?
Joining the Technology Student Association will provide you with an opportunity to explore career opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, as well as to compete in academic competitions. Visit https://tsaweb.org for more information.
Participate in summer programs and classes at colleges and universities that allow you to learn more about microfabrication and science in general. For example, the University of California-Berkeley Marvell NanoLab at CITRIS offers internship programs for high school students, https://nanolab.berkeley.edu/public/links/HSUGPrograms.shtml. The program provides hands-on laboratory experience, and participants work closely with graduate students and staff mentors. Contact colleges in your area for information on available programs.
- Advanced Manufacturing Engineers
- Advanced Manufacturing Technicians
- Biochemists
- Biomedical Engineers
- Chemical Engineers
- Chemists
- Drug Developers
- Electronics Engineering Technicians
- Engineering Technicians
- Futurists
- Materials Engineers
- Mechanical Engineers
- Microbiologists
- Microfabrication Engineers
- Nanomaterials Scientists
- Nanosystems Engineers
- Nanotechnicians
- Nanotechnologists
- Robotics Engineers
- Robotics Technicians
- Semiconductor Technicians