On June 14, 2024, Ivy Tech Community College, in collaboration with Purdue University, proudly celebrated the second cohort of the Semiconductor High School READI Program, known as PITCH (Purdue Ivy Tech Chips Program). This event marked a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to develop a skilled semiconductor workforce in the Greater Lafayette region.
Launched in 2023 as part of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation's READI initiative, the PITCH program offers rising juniors and seniors from local high schools an invaluable opportunity to explore careers as technicians, operators, and engineers in the semiconductor industry. This innovative program includes hands-on experience with faculty from both Ivy Tech and Purdue, site visits to area manufacturers, and opportunities to hear from industry leaders and connect with like-minded peers.
David Ely, Principal Investigator and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs at Ivy Tech Community College Lafayette, expressed his enthusiasm for the program's success, stating, "We are thrilled to see the continued success of the PITCH program and the positive impact it has on our community. This partnership with Purdue University is a testament to our commitment to providing students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the semiconductor industry."
The two-week summer program hosted 60 rising junior and senior high school students from Benton, Carroll, Fountain, Tippecanoe, Warren, and White counties. Participants benefited from an immersive educational experience designed to ignite their interest in semiconductor technology and careers.
Peter Bermel, Principal Investigator, SCALE Co-Director, and Elmore Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Purdue University, highlighted the importance of the program, saying, "We are excited to celebrate the achievements of these bright young minds. The PITCH program is a unique opportunity for students to gain valuable insights and hands-on experience in the field of semiconductors."
The celebration event featured remarks from esteemed guests, including Tony Denhart, Executive Vice President of Workforce and Talent of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation; Mayor Erin Easter of West Lafayette; Molly Dodge, Senior Vice President of Workforce and Careers at Ivy Tech Community College; and Vijay Raghunathan, Vice President of Global Partnerships and Programs and Director of Semiconductor Education at Purdue University. Community leaders, students, parents, teachers, faculty, school administrators, and other stakeholders attended this momentous occasion to recognize and support the future leaders of the semiconductor industry.
Click here for more information about the PITCH program and future events.
About Ivy Tech Community College
Ivy Tech Community College is Indiana's largest public postsecondary institution and the nation's largest singly accredited statewide community college system, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Ivy Tech has campuses throughout Indiana and also serves thousands of students annually online. It serves as the state's engine of workforce development, offering associate degrees, long- and short-term certificate programs, industry certifications, and training that aligns with the needs of the community. The College provides a seamless transfer to other colleges and universities in Indiana, as well as out of state, for a more affordable route to a bachelor's degree.
