Virginia Tech’s Participation in the UPWARDS Summer Camp for Women by Tokyo Electron

As one of the participants in the UPWARDS Summer Camp, Fabiha from the BRICC Lab at Virginia Tech joined a vibrant community of female university students gathering at the Tokyo Electron Karuizawa Club in Nagano. This immersive camp aimed to inspire and connect participants with the technology industry, specifically in the field of semiconductors, through a blend of educational sessions and recreational activities.

Students Gather at the Tokyo Electron Karuizawa Club

Upon arrival, Fabiha and her peers began with orientation sessions, engaging in introductory activities that helped break the ice and establish a collaborative atmosphere. In addition to traditional lectures, the camp featured unique team-building activities such as curling. This sport provided a fun, challenging experience that allowed Fabiha to practice essential teamwork and adaptability skills while bonding with fellow participants in a new environment.

At the Karuizawa Curling Hall

The core learning experience came through a series of seminars focused on semiconductor fundamentals, which deepened the participant’s technical knowledge while presenting an industry perspective. These sessions highlighted the critical role semiconductors play in powering everyday devices and systems and understanding of the significance of Tokyo Electron in the semiconductor manufacturing equipment production field.

Further into the camp, Fabiha also toured the Tokyo Electron Technology Solutions (TTS) factory, where she visited the cleanroom, observed the different production stages and shipment process. The experience continued with a networking dinner, where Fabiha had the chance to connect with female engineers, gaining insights into their career paths and industry experiences. The informal setting encouraged open dialogue, allowing her to learn directly from professionals who had successfully navigated the technology field.

The camp’s final activities included a roundtable discussion and an interactive workshop, both of which underscored the importance of knowledge exchange. During the roundtable, students also engaged with Tokyo Electron engineers in discussions about industry trends and career advice. The workshop provided an opportunity to apply their theoretical knowledge through hands-on exercises, reinforcing complex concepts and their practical applications.

Concluding Event at Tokyo Electron Karuizawa Club

Reflecting on her experience, Fabiha found the UPWARDS Summer Camp to be a balanced mix of technical exploration and personal growth. The supportive environment, paired with inspiring interactions and practical insights, left a lasting impression, empowering her with new perspectives and a deeper appreciation for the field.