Washtenaw Community College, Automation Alley to host Microelectronics & Semiconductor Innovation Exchange

Chamber Member Press Release

The regional forum on October 6 will bring together industry, education and workforce leaders to strengthen Michigan's semiconductor ecosystem



ANN ARBOR, Michigan (August 19, 2026) – Washtenaw Community College (WCC) and Automation Alley will host the Microelectronics & Semiconductor Innovation Exchange on Tuesday, October 6, bringing together industry leaders to explore workforce needs, emerging technologies and strategies to strengthen Michigan’s growing semiconductor ecosystem.
 
The regional forum will be from 8 a.m.-12 p.m. in the Morris Lawrence Building on WCC's campus, 4800 E. Huron River Drive, Ann Arbor. Semiconductor and advanced manufacturing industry leaders, workforce and economic development partners, educators and other stakeholders are invited to register for the free event.
 
Through facilitated roundtable discussions and presentations, participants will explore workforce needs, emerging technologies and ways industry and education can work together to strengthen Michigan’s semiconductor sector.
 
Participants may also tour WCC’s Advanced Manufacturing Labs, Soldering Lab and new cleanroom environment to learn about training programs that prepare students for microelectronics and semiconductor careers, including opportunities connected to Michigan’s automotive industry and supply chains.
 
The keynote speaker will be Lisa Krusemark, Ph.D., from the Center for Automotive Research (CAR). As a research scientist with CAR, Krusemark conducts automotive industry-driven research, concentrating on the impact of technology shifts on manufacturing and workforce development.
 
Automation Alley is a nonprofit business and technology organization that helps Michigan companies leverage emerging technologies – including AI, robotics, automation, cybersecurity and digital manufacturing – to innovate and grow.
 
The Microelectronics & Semiconductor Innovation Exchange agenda includes:
  • 8-8:30 a.m.: Networking and registration
  • 8:30-9 a.m.: Welcome
  • 9-9:30 a.m.: Breakfast and keynote speaker
  • 9:45-11:45 a.m.: Facilitated roundtable discussions
  • 11:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m.: Optional lab tours and program overview
 
Additional information and registration details are available online at wccnet.edu/semiconductor-event.
 
 
REGISTER NOW
What: Microelectronics & Semiconductor Innovation Exchange
Date: Tuesday, October 6
Time: 8 a.m.-12 p.m.
Location: Washtenaw Community College, Morris Lawrence Building, 4800 E. Huron River Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Online: Register online
 
 
 
About Washtenaw Community College 
Washtenaw Community College (WCC), Ann Arbor, Michigan, has been opening doors to success for students and the community for 60 years, providing education and training in a wide range of associate and certificate programs in areas such as liberal arts, health care, business, STEM, advanced transportation and mobility. WCC offers accelerated and online programs to meet student needs. The college also works through community, business and union partnerships to develop specialized training programs to meet the region’s workforce needs.
 
For more information about Washtenaw Community College, visit www.wccnet.edu. 
 
 
 

Washtenaw Community College, Automati...