Linvill presents workforce development research at Westwood Lecture Series

Jennifer S. Linvill, an assistant professor of technology leadership and innovation in the Purdue Polytechnic Institute, presented “Scaling Up: Preparing a career-ready defense microelectronics engineering workforce through needs assessments” at the Westwood Lecture Series on Sept. 3.

Abstract. Scalable Asymmetric Lifecycle Engagement (SCALE) is the nation’s preeminent program for developing a next-generation microelectronics engineering workforce. It focuses on developing a scalable and sustainable workforce development program for microelectronics engineering that will serve to ensure U.S. national security and bolster the U.S. economy. In this lecture, Linvill will discuss her research on workforce development, including needs assessments of technical skills and comprehensive needs in the microelectronics engineering field, with examples from a specific project on the field of radiation hardening. This work informs SCALE stakeholders about the current and future projected state of the radiation hardening workforce, including anticipated growth rate of the workforce and skills needed for success in the field. She serves as a co-principal investigator on the SCALEproduction team to inform engineering stakeholders in the public, private and academic sectors and strengthen national defense by producing career-ready graduates.

Bio. Jennifer S. Linvill is an assistant professor of technology leadership and innovation at Purdue’s Polytechnic Institute and a co-principal investigator on the SCALE production proposal, funded by the Department of Defense. Her research focuses on workforce development through the lens of the changing nature of work and is strategically designed to address organizational challenges by providing novel solutions through an interdisciplinary approach.

Linvill earned a PhD and master’s degree in organizational communication and a bachelor’s degree in law and society from Purdue University. She received the John P. Lisack Early-Career Engagement Award and is a two-time winner of the Department of Technology Leadership and Innovation’s Outstanding Faculty in Discovery Award. In the spring, Linvill received a SCALE recognition award funded by the U.S. Department of Defense for contributions to the Scalable Asymmetric Lifecycle Engagement Program and nanoHUB.