Preparing the next generation of innovators
At CITRIS, students are an essential part of the innovation ecosystem. Across four University of California campuses — UC Berkeley, UC Davis, UC Merced and UC Santa Cruz — CITRIS programs provide students with opportunities to conduct research, gain hands-on industry experience, explore entrepreneurship and help shape technologies that serve society.
From workforce development and semiconductor manufacturing to aviation, climate resilience and artificial intelligence, CITRIS programs connect students with real-world challenges, interdisciplinary collaboration and emerging industries. By supporting students at every stage of their academic and professional journeys, CITRIS is helping prepare a diverse and future-ready workforce for California and beyond.
Workforce Innovation Program (WIP)
The CITRIS Workforce Innovation Program (WIP) connects students with paid internships and opportunities to apply their skills in professional settings, including startups, research labs, industry and public-sector organizations. By bridging academic study with industry experience, WIP helps prepare students for careers in emerging technology fields.
Spanos Semiconductor Manufacturing Awards
The Spanos Semiconductor Manufacturing Awards support graduate students conducting innovative research in semiconductor technology and manufacturing across the four CITRIS campuses. Part of a $1M philanthropic endowment, the awards help strengthen California’s future semiconductor workforce.
¡Valle! Get Your Start in Tech!
¡Valle! Get Your Start in Tech! helps students from two- and four-year colleges and universities explore pathways into technology careers through mentorship, professional development and experiential learning opportunities. The weekend bootcamp program is designed to expand access to the innovation economy and support the next generation of tech talent.
CITRIS Aviation Prize
The CITRIS Aviation Prize challenges students from across the four CITRIS campuses to advance the frontiers of sustainable aviation and advanced air mobility. Through interdisciplinary teamwork and expert mentorship, students engage with complex transportation issues to develop future-ready solutions and compete for prizes that help define the next era of aviation in California and beyond.
CIDER Pilot Training Program
The UCSC CIDER team has created a mentoring and education program aimed at training students in the safe and comprehensive use of drones, with a special focus on agricultural and environmental applications. We seek to increase diversity in the drone industry, which has historically struggled to include professionals from a wide range of backgrounds and identities.
