Outreach

About the role

The Montana Microfabrication Facility (MMF) focuses on the science and engineering that impacts everyday life, particularly microfabrication—technology invisible to the naked eye but essential in producing computers, phones, medical equipment, and other devices. Microfabrication enhances device functionality and drives innovation in new technologies. MMF is dedicated to sharing the possibilities of microfabrication with students and staff across educational levels, from elementary school to college.

Outreach Programs and Activities

• NanoDays

  An event created by the Nanoscale Information Science Network to educate families, staff, and children about micro and nanotechnology. MMF hosts events or presentations using Nanokits, which teach the fundamental science and engineering behind nanotechnology in an engaging way.

• Tours

  Students from Mt. Ellis Academy, a private school in Bozeman, toured the MMF facility to learn about common equipment and processes used in microfabrication.

• Solar Cells for Teachers Summer Program

  During the week of July 9, 2018, four K-12 teachers participated in a workshop led by Dr. Todd Kaiser. Teachers used the MMF facility to produce a solar cell to take home and earned credit toward MSU's Masters in Science Education program. Participants came from Missouri, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Wisconsin.

  Post-program survey results showed all teachers either somewhat agreed or strongly agreed that they:

  • Knew more about how solar cells operate and how they are made after the course
  • Knew more about how to use engineering examples and applications in their classrooms
  • Felt more comfortable using engineering applications and talking about engineering in their classrooms