Microspark Summit

Microelectronics & Semiconductor K–12 Teacher Conference

The Microspark Summit brings together two days of hands-on learning, classroom-ready resources and industry connections that bring semiconductor education into today’s classrooms. Sign up using the link below to receive Microspark updates, K-12 microelectronics and semiconductor resources.

Microspark Summit Microspark Summit

What is Microspark Summit?

Microspark Summit is ASU Prep’s flagship educator conference for Arizona teachers who want to grow their STEM knowledge and connect students to careers in Arizona’s rapidly expanding semiconductor industry.

As Arizona’s first statewide K–12 conference dedicated to microelectronics, educators explore its growing importance to Arizona’s economy and provide practical ways to integrate these concepts into classroom instruction.

Open to educators across all content areas and grade levels, Microspark Summit leaves participants with classroom-ready lesson plans, digital resources, hands-on learning kits and professional development certification to continue inspiring students long after the conference ends.

Microspark Summit will return in fall 2027.

Why attend Microspark Summit

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Learn through experience
Participate in hands-on workshops and interactive learning experiences led by university, industry and education partners.

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Take resources back to your classroom
Receive Micro:Bit and LEGO kits, lesson plans, digital resources and activities ready to use with students.

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Connect learning to careers
Explore Arizona's growing semiconductor ecosystem and help students discover future career opportunities.

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Earn professional development
Complete the conference to earn professional development certification and enhance STEM instructional skills.

Name
Email
Role
School/Company

Guest Speakers

Dr. Quintin Boyce

Associate Vice President of Outreach, Access ASU

ASU

Dr. Binil Starly

School Director and Professor, School of Manufacturing Systems and Networks

Arizona State University

Panel

Rachna Mathur

Executive Strategic Advisor, STEM & Emerging Tech

ASU Preparatory Academy

Azra Baab

Strategic Talent Architect

University Relations & Workforce Development, Amkor

Nicolas Gomez

Business Solutions Engineer

Business Solutions Group, Amkor

Dr. Rick Vaughn

Faculty Chair, STEM

Rio Salado Community College

Adam Eklund

Senior Program Manager

Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering, ASU

Semi-Conductor Educator Fellowship

Microspark Team

Amy Ball

Director of Outreach Experiences, Access ASU

ASU

Corey Dorsey

Project Manager of Strategic Initiatives

ASU Preparatory Academy

Faculty learning Faculty learning

FAQs

Background

  • What are microelectronics?

    Microelectronics is the study and manufacture of tiny electronic components and systems. It includes technologies like microchips, transistors, and semiconductors, which power devices such as smartphones, computers, and even household appliances. You will learn more details and all about this at the conference!

    For example, a CPU, the central processing unit, is typically the brain of a device and is made of semiconductors or microelectronics! Want to know how? Check out How to Make a CPU.

  • Why are microelectronics important in Arizona?

    Microelectronics is the backbone of modern technology, driving innovations in computing, healthcare, transportation, and communication. It plays a critical role in developing smaller, faster, and more efficient electronic devices.

    In 2022, the Biden-Harris administration enacted the CHIPS & Science Act, under which nearly $50B was dedicated toward establishing semiconductor manufacturing and microelectronics R&D, programs and workforce development. Arizona, in particular, is a global leader, with multi-billion-dollar facilities being established or expanded locally, which require a large STEM workforce. It is important for us, as K-12 educators, to help students become aware of these fields, industries, and career pathways leading to high-end STEM and STEM-related careers!

Conference Logistics

General

Ready for Microspark Summit?

Join educators from across Arizona to explore emerging technologies, build classroom-ready skills and inspire the next generation of innovators.

Interested in partnering with us or sponsoring us for future conferences? 

Contact Rachna Mathur and Corey Dorsey.

Microspark attendees

Thank you to our sponsors

ASU Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering logoASU Southwest Advanced Prototyping Hub logoASU Prep Academy
SHIELD USA logo
SEMI Foundation
ASU logo