Treylor Shirley ’21 was in his advisor’s office in 2019, contemplating his spring semester course options as a sophomore. His advisor mentioned a unique 12-week summer program at the Center for Nanotechnology Education and Utilization (CNEU) at Penn State’s main campus through the Nanofabrication Manufacturing Technology Partnership, of which IUP is a partner institution. This partnership allows students to access state-of-the-art instruments at their home institution’s tuition rate. Although the details were vague, as few IUP students had participated, Shirley’s curiosity was piqued. “I’d always been interested in hands-on learning, and this program sounded intriguing,” he said.
After researching the NMT Capstone Semester, Shirley discovered it offered intensive, hands-on experience with advanced technology, blending practical skills with theoretical knowledge. The program covered semiconductor processing, microelectronics, and nanotechnology—topics that perfectly complemented his studies. Shirley planned to attend in 2020, but the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic forced a delay. Determined to experience the program in its intended format, he postponed until the summer of 2021.
“When I finally started the program, it was beyond anything I’d imagined,” Shirley said. “The labs were cutting-edge, and the instructors were experts passionate about teaching. It was an intense experience, but incredibly rewarding.” The program’s blend of technical training and mentorship ignited a passion for nanotechnology that would steer Shirley’s academic and professional journey.
After completing the capstone semester, Shirley’s newfound interest in nanotechnology led him to pursue a master’s degree at Penn State. There, he also took on roles as the lab manager and head teaching assistant for the NMT program. These positions allowed him to mentor over a thousand students, passing on the knowledge and enthusiasm that had inspired him just a few years earlier. “It was surreal to go from being a student to helping others navigate the same challenges I faced,” Shirley said.
His work as a teaching assistant solidified Shirley’s decision to continue his education. He credits the NMT Capstone Semester with opening doors he hadn’t even known existed. “The program didn’t just teach me technical skills; it gave me confidence and direction,” Shirley said. “I discovered a field I’m passionate about and found mentors who guided me every step of the way.”
Now a PhD candidate, Shirley’s research focuses on advanced materials and nanoscale systems, areas directly tied to the foundational knowledge he gained during the NMT semester. His academic achievements and professional milestones are a testament to the program’s impact.
“Looking back, enrolling in the NMT Capstone Semester was the best decision I ever made,” Shirley said. “It set me on a path I never could have imagined and gave me the tools to succeed.”
As he works toward completing his PhD, Shirley continues to reflect on the transformative power of the NMT program. It’s not just about what he’s achieved, but also about the inspiration he hopes to provide for future students.
“Programs like this are life-changing,” Shirley said. “I’m proof of that. I want others to know what’s possible when you take a chance on something new.”
Treylor Shirley is committed to motivating and supporting more students in the years ahead, continuing the cycle of mentorship and inspiration that began with a simple visit to his advisor’s office.
About the NMT Capstone Semester
Hosted by CNEU at Penn State’s University Park campus, the Nanofabrication Manufacturing Technology Capstone Semester is a unique opportunity aimed at equipping a new generation workforce with nanotechnology-based manufacturing and new product development skills companies need to move life-changing nanoscale applications out of the laboratory and into the marketplace.
If you want to learn more about participating in the 12-week NMT Capstone Summer Semester at Penn State and the six courses offered, please contact Andrew Zhou, the Physics/Pre-Engineering program coordinator, at fzhou@iup.edu.