Virginia Tech® home

UPWARDS Summer Camp

Participants in the UPWARDS summer camp fabricate semiconductors in Virginia Tech's clean lab. The clean lab uses special amber tinted lighting to protect the delicate electronics used in semiconductors. (Photo by Luke Hayes/Virginia Tech)
July 17th, 2024 - Participants in the UPWARDS summer camp fabricate semiconductors in Virginia Tech's clean lab. The clean lab uses special amber tinted lighting to protect the delicate electronics used in semiconductors. (Photo by Luke Hayes/Virginia Tech)

The University Partnership for Workforce Advancement and Research & Development in Semiconductors (UPWARDS), will focus on the microelectronics industry, cleanroom fabrication and career opportunities. 

Participants should be interested in pursuing electrical, computer, materials science or chemical engineering or a related field. UPWARDS is funded in part by the National Science Foundation, Micron Technology, Inc., and Tokyo Electron Ltd.

Dates and Deadlines:

Two residential summer camps in Blacksburg:

  • UPWARDS 1: From June 14 to 27, 2026
  • UPWARDS 2: From July 12 to 25, 2026

What is UPWARDS Camp all about?

  • Exploring applications of engineering in a way that is fun and exciting
  • Interacting with others interested in pursuing careers in various engineering fields
  • Complete a Computer-aided design (CAD) tutorial and pattern layout exercise
  • Learn to work safely and effectively in a cleanroom
  • Gain hands-on experience with semiconductor materials, processes, and equipment
  • Fabricating and testing simple microelectronic devices

This is a joint application with the C-TECH2 and WEE VT programs. You will have the option to select and rank your choices for one or more programs. In order to maximize the number of students who can participate, successful applicants will only be given an offer to one camp.

2026 application are open!

Applications close: March 8, 2026

Notification of Decision: April 3, 2026

Camp Testimonials

"Before, I knew I wanted to study engineering in college, but I wasn’t sure which area. I didn’t have any background on semiconductors or circuits, so electrical engineering didn’t even come to mind. I had so much fun during camp being exposed to a different area of engineering. Right now, I’m even considering Virginia Tech as my top school."

"First of all, I would like to say the camp was the most amazing experience. I learned so much and am forever grateful for that experience. It definitely confirmed that engineering is for me! I’ll definitely be there for the info session and for the in person fall visitation. Thanks again for the amazing opportunities you have given us!"

"I would also like to thank you for your part in helping to set up UPWARDS! I had an amazing time while I was participating in it and I was sad when it came to an end a few days ago! Thank you again for everything! It is all greatly appreciated."

Contact UPWARDS

185 Perry Street, (433 Whittemore Hall), Blacksburg, VA 24061

Emails:
Dr. Jeffrey Walling, the UPWARDS Camp Director

Dr. Luke Lester, the UPWARDS Camp Co-Director

By Pouya Faeghi