Extern Blog – Erica Grell

Innovation Close Up

Walking into Micron, I expected to learn about technology. What I didn’t expect was how much I would learn about people, purpose, and the power of community.

From the very beginning, I was welcomed by individuals from so many different departments—each one kind, passionate, and genuinely proud of the work they do. That pride was contagious. Everywhere I went, I saw employees eager to share their knowledge, explain their roles, and contribute to something larger than themselves. It became clear very quickly that creating something as complex as a semiconductor wafer is not the work of one person—it’s the result of hundreds, even thousands, of people working together seamlessly toward a shared goal.

One of the most fascinating experiences was seeing the wafer production process firsthand. Watching how something so small and precise is created with such care and detail was incredible. I saw just how much chemistry is involved—layer upon layer of materials, each step carefully controlled to ensure perfection. It gave me a completely new appreciation for the science behind the technology we use every day. I was fascinated with photolithography.

Equally impressive was the use of AI and robotics throughout the process. These technologies aren’t replacing people—they’re supporting them, enhancing precision, efficiency, and safety. It was inspiring to see how humans and machines interact together, each playing a critical role in the success of the final product while being managed by a person.

Getting the chance to see the Clean Room and Fab environment was impressive. The level of attention to detail, cleanliness, and discipline required was unlike anything I’ve seen before. Every step is intentional. The Remote Operations Center (ROC) was another highlight. Watching teams monitor and manage operations in real time showed just how advanced and interconnected everything is. It reinforced how critical teamwork and communication are, especially in such a high-tech and high-stakes environment.

Projects:

During my externship at Micron, my main project focused on understanding and improving how Micron connects with schools, educators, students, families, community partners, and the general public through tours and outreach experiences. I explored how community tour requests are currently managed and developed a tour platform concept that could make the process more organized, accessible, and welcoming. Through this project, I began to see that tours are much more than a walkthrough of a facility. They are opportunities to build trust, spark curiosity, and help people understand the human impact behind advanced technology.

The goal of this project was to create a clearer pathway for people to request tours, learn about Micron’s work, and connect classroom learning to real-world STEM careers. I wanted the process to support both the people requesting tours and the Micron team members responsible for coordinating them. A well-planned tour does not simply explain what Micron does; it helps students, educators, families, and community members see where they fit into the future of innovation.

To support this work, I created a flow chart showing how a tour request could move from the initial community interest form to internal review, scheduling, communication, and automated follow-up. In collaboration with other externs, I also helped create a PowerPoint presentation. Working together allowed us to compare ideas, identify needs from different perspectives of the different experiences being at Micron, and think through how a tour platform could better serve the community. This project showed me that access matters. When people have an easier way to connect with Micron, they have more opportunities to learn, ask questions, explore careers, and understand the many roles needed in the semiconductor industry.

Along with the tour platform project, I researched outreach opportunities connected to organizations such as GSA, WISH, SEMI.org, and Micron TPG. Through this work, I created and presented a PowerPoint to the team outlining ways Micron could increase engagement within the industry community. This helped me understand that industry relationships are built through consistent visibility, shared learning, and meaningful participation. People are at the center of this work: people create partnerships, share the story of the company, mentor the next generation, and connect technical innovation to real community needs.

I also had the opportunity to support community and student outreach through Girl Scout tours and Chip Camp at both Boise State University and Micron. These experiences allowed me to see the direct impact outreach can have on students. Young people were able to ask questions, see real technology, and meet the people who make it possible. Experiences like these can change the way students view STEM careers by helping them realize there is not just one type of person who belongs in technology. There is a need for problem-solvers, communicators, designers, technicians, engineers, leaders, educators, and creative thinkers.

I also helped plan and participated in the America 250 parade, where I supported the booth and helped run activities during the event. This project highlighted another important part of community engagement: visibility. Being present at community events helps people see Micron not only as a technology company, but also as a company made up of people who live, work, volunteer, and contribute locally. Together, these projects showed me that innovation depends on people at every level. The technology may be advanced, but the heart of the work is human connection—building relationships, opening doors, and helping more people see that they are needed in the future of STEM.

Students: The Why and What I’ll Bring Back

Beyond the technology, what stood out just as much was Micron’s commitment to community engagement and student outreach. Volunteering at Chip Camp and seeing students’ reactions was one of the most rewarding parts of this experience. Their curiosity, excitement, and fascination reminded me why programs like this matter. When students can connect what they are learning to real-world applications, they begin to see new possibilities for themselves.

I currently work at Meridian Technology Charter High School as a Special Educator and CTE Teacher, where I am constantly reminded of what curiosity can grow into. Experiencing Micron firsthand—the scale, the processes, the teamwork, and the strong community support—reinforced how important it is to help students see their potential. This experience showed me that STEM careers are not limited to one type of learner or one type of strength. They include people who are analytical, creative, hands-on, organized, curious, collaborative, technical, and service-minded.

During my time at the host site, I learned about the semiconductor industry firsthand, observed the wafer production process, toured highly technical spaces such as the Clean Room, Fab, and Remote Operations Center, and contributed to meaningful outreach projects. I helped research tour processes, develop a community tour platform concept, create a flow chart and PowerPoint, and present findings in collaboration with other externs.

As I return to teaching, I will bring back more real-world connections, career awareness, and people-focused learning into my classroom. I want my students to understand that technology is not just about machines, science, or processes—it is about people working together to solve problems and build the future. This experience strengthened my belief that every student has a place in the future workforce and that every student needs to know they are needed.

Conclusion

I am incredibly thankful for the opportunity to spend time at Micron and learn from so many knowledgeable, welcoming, and passionate people. This externship gave me a deeper understanding of the semiconductor industry, but more importantly, it reminded me of the power of connection between education, industry, and community. I am grateful to Micron, STEM AC, and everyone who took the time to share their work, answer questions, and help me see the many ways students can find their place in the future of technology. I will carry this experience back to my classroom with a renewed sense of purpose, excitement, and responsibility to help students see what is possible for them.