Around $4 million invested to transform hands-on training, research capacity and pathways into advanced manufacturing at the university
PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas (Month Day, 2026) — Prairie View A&M University is advancing a major semiconductor workforce development initiative through the modernization of a 700-square-foot clean room in the Roy G. Perry College of Engineering.
Supported by a previously announced $1.98 million Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund grant and matching resources, the investment represents a $3.96 million investment in semiconductor research, training and workforce development at PVAMU. The initiative will strengthen the University’s advanced manufacturing capabilities while preparing students for high-demand careers in Texas’ growing semiconductor industry.
“Securing $1.98 million from the Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund is a transformative milestone for Prairie View A&M University,” said PVAMU President Tomikia P. LeGrande, Ed.D. “This investment affirms the vital role PVAMU plays in advancing Texas’ semiconductor industry and strengthens our commitment to preparing a highly skilled workforce ready to lead in advanced manufacturing and microelectronics innovation.”
The initiative centers on 3D heterogeneous integration, or 3DHI, an advanced approach that combines separately manufactured chips, wafers and components within a single package. This process can improve the performance and functionality of microelectronics used in computing, communications, aerospace, defense and other technology-intensive fields.
PVAMU’s training program will introduce students to 3DHI processes, electronic design automation, digital twins and microsystems. In addition to modernizing the clean room, the project includes curriculum development, student scholarships, internships and professional development for faculty and staff.
“This investment underscores Prairie View A&M University’s growing impact on semiconductor innovation in Texas. By strengthening its clean room facility, PVAMU is expanding opportunities for cutting-edge research and hands-on student training—both critical for advancing our state’s leadership in semiconductor manufacturing and technology,” said Steve Putna, Associate Vice Chancellor for Research and Director for the Texas A&M Semiconductor Institute at Texas A&M.
The expanded facility will give students direct experience with the equipment and processes used in semiconductor research and manufacturing. It will also strengthen faculty research in areas including nanotechnology, microelectromechanical systems and microelectronics.
“Expanding our clean room will elevate faculty research and provide our students with hands-on training in cutting-edge microfabrication techniques, directly preparing them for careers that fuel innovation and national competitiveness,” said Magesh T. Rajan, Ph.D., P.E., M.B.A., Vice President for Research & Innovation at PVAMU. “I’m proud to have helped lead this effort alongside our System and College of Engineering partners.”
Pamela H. Obiomon, Ph.D., dean of the Roy G. Perry College of Engineering, said the expanded facility will provide students with experience using technology found throughout the semiconductor industry.
“The clean room upgrades will give students hands-on experience with the same advanced tools and processes used in the semiconductor industry,” Obiomon said. “By strengthening this essential infrastructure, we are equipping the next generation of engineers to lead in semiconductor fabrication, design and innovation.”
The Roy G. Perry College of Engineering is collaborating with the Texas A&M Semiconductor Institute and the Next-Generation Microelectronics Manufacturing program to advance the initiative. The partnership connects PVAMU’s students and faculty with broader semiconductor research, education and workforce efforts across The Texas A&M University System and the state.
The Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund supports projects that strengthen semiconductor research, design, manufacturing and workforce development across the state. Gov. Greg Abbott signed the Texas CHIPS Act into law in 2023, establishing the fund and the Texas Semiconductor Innovation Consortium. Both are administered by the Texas CHIPS Office, a division of the Governor’s Texas Economic Development & Tourism Office.
When the award was announced, Abbott emphasized the initiative’s importance to Texas’ semiconductor workforce, manufacturing capacity and economic competitiveness.
“Texas is investing in the workforce of tomorrow today,” said Governor Abbott. “Prairie View A&M University, the second-oldest public higher education institution in Texas, has built an unparalleled reputation for empowering scholars. This specialized workforce training program will further Texas’ leadership in cutting-edge microelectronics, enhance national security by strengthening domestic semiconductor manufacturing, and expand the path to better jobs and bigger paycheck opportunities for Texans for years to come.”
The investment strengthens PVAMU’s role in Texas’ semiconductor ecosystem by expanding access to specialized training, supporting faculty-led research and building stronger pathways between education and industry. It also contributes to the state’s broader strategy to strengthen domestic semiconductor manufacturing, expand research capacity and prepare the workforce needed to sustain long-term growth.
More information about the Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund and the Texas Semiconductor Innovation Consortium is available through the Governor’s Texas Economic Development & Tourism Office. Additional information about the Texas A&M Semiconductor Institute is available through The Texas A&M University System.
About Prairie View A&M University
Founded in 1876, Prairie View A&M University is the second-oldest public institution of higher education in Texas and the nation’s fourth-largest Historically Black College or University. PVAMU enrolls more than 10,000 students and has more than 85,000 graduates. The University offers bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral programs through 12 colleges and schools. As a Carnegie-classified R2 research university, land-grant institution and member of The Texas A&M University System, PVAMU advances excellence in teaching, research and service.