Students in ECE 375: Microprocessor Applications work alongside professor Mustafa Ayad during a hands-on lab in SUNY Oswego’s Electrical and Computer Engineering program.
Just 30 miles from where Micron is building one of the largest semiconductor fabs in the country, SUNY Oswego is powering the future of Central New York — one engineer at a time.
As the U.S. works to strengthen domestic manufacturing and reduce dependence on foreign supply chains, regions like Central New York are becoming vital players in the high-tech economy.
The university’s electrical & computer engineering (ECE) program is more than just a degree path. It’s a flagship program designed to meet the exact workforce needs of the region’s growing tech economy. With ABET accreditation, state-of-the-art labs and a location central to the Micron project and broader semiconductor corridor, the ECE program is preparing students to graduate job-ready — right in their backyard.
A local solution to a global investment
As Central New York gears up for massive economic growth driven by Micron and other high-tech employers, the need for a strong, homegrown engineering workforce has never been greater. SUNY Oswego’s ECE program is positioned to meet that challenge head-on.
“We’re building a pipeline of local talent who can step into high-paying roles and meet the workforce demand of this region,” said Mario Bkassiny, department chair and associate professor. “Most of our graduates are hired by local firms in Central New York and contribute to the development of the fast-growing engineering industry in this area.”
Micron’s $100 billion semiconductor manufacturing investment is expected to bring 9,000 direct jobs and more than 40,000 indirect roles to the region over the next 20 years. According to the company, one of the biggest obstacles to success is ensuring a skilled, local workforce.
“We’re building a pipeline of local talent who can step into high-paying roles and meet the workforce demand of this region. Most of our graduates are hired by local firms in Central New York and contribute to the development of the fast-growing engineering industry in this area.” - Mario Bkassiny, department chair and associate professor
That’s where SUNY Oswego steps in.
“We’re already collaborating with industry and education leaders in Central New York who strongly support our engineering program. With Oswego’s focus on access and affordability, we provide a viable path to success for more families in Central New York,” explained Bkassiny. “We’ve been focusing on the continuous improvement of our program to provide a high-quality education that meets the needs of the modern engineering industry.”
High impact, low cost
As part of the SUNY system, Oswego’s ECE program offers a nationally respected education at a fraction of the cost of private institutions. Over 89 percent of students receive financial aid, and for many New York families, tuition is free or significantly reduced thanks to the Excelsior Scholarship and other grant programs.
Combined with high placement rates, strong internship pipelines, and career alignment with one of the nation’s largest industrial projects, the program presents one of the best educational returns on investment in the state.
Graduates have gone on to work at companies like SRC, Lockheed Martin and regional startups — applying their Oswego education in roles that drive real-world impact.
Real-world learning in cutting-edge labs
Located inside Oswego’s Shineman Center for Science, Engineering and Innovation, the ECE program blends rigorous coursework with hands-on, project-based learning from the very first year. Students gain experience in robotics, embedded systems, hardware design, wireless systems, and modern energy solutions — skills directly aligned with the region’s growing demand for engineers.
“Our program is designed to provide a hands-on learning experience in our state-of-the-art engineering laboratories,” said Bkassiny. “Students have access to several experiential learning opportunities to develop practical skills and be well-prepared for the workplace.”
Unlike larger institutions where students often wait years to access lab equipment, Oswego’s smaller class sizes mean that students get one-on-one attention and access to technology throughout their academic journey.
“What I love most about the electrical and computer engineering program is the strong sense of community,” said Anthony Paraboo ’26, an ECE major from Long Island, NY. “The professors, students and staff are genuinely invested in your success. We push each other to improve, and you never feel like you’re facing challenges alone.”
That preparation pays off — both in the classroom and after graduation. With strong faculty mentorship, internship opportunities, and regional industry partnerships, students are building real-world experience and professional connections long before they earn their diplomas.
“During my time at SUNY Oswego, I’ve gained much more than just engineering knowledge, I’ve grown personally and professionally thanks to the support within this community,” said Paraboo.
“What I love most about the electrical and computer engineering program is the strong sense of community. The professors, students and staff are genuinely invested in your success. We push each other to improve, and you never feel like you’re facing challenges alone.” - Anthony Paraboo ’26, ECE major
Building a regional identity around innovation
As SUNY Oswego takes a leading role in supporting the region’s tech-driven growth, the ECE program stands at the forefront of that effort. As a flagship program, it’s not only preparing graduates for high-demand careers — it’s helping shape the future of innovation and opportunity in Central New York.
Explore the program and see how Oswego is building the future: oswego.edu/ece
