Qnity Electronics, Inc. (NYSE: Q) has announced a partnership with the University of Delaware College of Engineering aimed at expanding workforce development and research collaboration in semiconductor manufacturing.

Under the agreement, University of Delaware engineering students will work with Qnity technical leaders on capstone projects addressing manufacturing and operational challenges. The company is also piloting an extended work-study program to provide students with hands-on industry experience and exposure to automation projects.

The partnership also opens pathways for collaboration between Qnity and university faculty on semiconductor materials research, including access to the Keck Center for Advanced Microscopy and Microanalysis.

"Innovation doesn't happen in isolation, it happens when industry and academia work together to solve meaningful challenges," said Randy King, Chief Technology Officer at Qnity and a member of the University of Delaware Engineering Advisory Council.

Jenni Buckley, associate dean for corporate engagement and entrepreneurship at UD Engineering, noted that the arrangement is structured to support ongoing engagement. "By working with students on real manufacturing challenges, Qnity is shaping their future workforce and collaborating with faculty experts at the same time."

Pamela M. Norris, dean of UD Engineering, said the partnership connects industry perspective, university research, and emerging talent in a field she described as central to national economic competitiveness and security.

According to the press release, the collaboration is intended to support both talent development and research into manufacturing technologies across the semiconductor supply chain.