PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Berkshire Community College (BCC) is a recipient of a Supporting Chip Advancement from Lab to Enterprise (SCALE) Capital Program grant, awarded by the Healey-Driscoll Administration and Northeast Microelectronics Coalition (NEMC), in the amount of $202,200. 

 

The award is part of $10.2 million in grant funds that support 10 microelectronics projects throughout the Commonwealth. 

 

The SCALE awards are designed to supercharge the microelectronics industry across Massachusetts, including AI hardware, nanotechnology and quantum computing. Grants will fund the purchase of capital equipment to support workforce and technology development at higher education institutions, companies and nonprofit organizations. 

 

At BCC, the grant funds will be used to purchase a scanning electron microscope, as well as sample preparation equipment, for the Workforce Microelectronics Training Program. Associate Professor of Engineering Dr. José Colmenares explained that the scanning electron microscope is a powerful device that uses electrons instead of light to magnify images. These images are so small that a traditional light microscope would be inadequate. He also said that while the grant funds will support electronic components, circuit elements and microchips for BCC's Engineering Department, they can also be used by all departments of the college for various scientific applications. 

 

"The Engineering Department is thrilled to receive grant funding for an electron microscope that will transform how we teach engineering and mechatronics. This powerful tool will give students hands-on experience with micro- and nanoscale structures, directly preparing the next generation of technical professionals for careers in microelectronic manufacturing," Dr. Colmenares said. "We are excited to integrate this technology into our curriculum and expand authentic, industry-aligned learning opportunities for our students." 

 

SCALE builds on NEMC's mission to rapidly accelerate microelectronics ecosystem development by supporting projects that unite the microelectronics community, develop technologies to attract additional investment, and boost workforce development programs to fill regional gaps.  

 

"The SCALE Capital Program is a strategic investment in the future of Massachusetts' microelectronics industry," said Governor Maura Healey. "Massachusetts is focused on bridging the gap between development and commercialization so that microelectronics companies based here can better compete globally. That starts with providing the equipment to advance projects and supporting training for new entrants in the industry."