The technical structure of AVS is organized as a matrix. Members can participate in one or more Divisions or Technical Groups, each of which is focused around a major topical area. Members may also participate in Chapters and Student Chapters, which are regional organizations that focus on local area needs.


Northern California - Short Courses/Workshops


Short Courses

Taught by industry professionals, AVS Short courses offer training for technicians, scientists, and engineers in three broad categories:

Vacuum and Equipment Technology Topics related to vacuum and processing equipment design, operation, and maintenance.

Materials and Interface Characterization Topics covering chemical, physical, and electrical characterization of films, surfaces, particles, and interfaces.

Materials Processing Topics covering materials processing, modification, and integration.

AVS courses not only facilitate student/instructor interaction, but provide networking opportunities with your peers. If you are interested in a particular course that is not currently being offered, then use our Courses by Request form to make a suggestion.

If your company would like to host a short course, courses can also be customized to suit your company's needs/goals through our Onsite Training Program and taught at your facility. For a complete listing of available courses or to learn more about our instructors click: Short Course Catalog or Short Course Instructors.

Current Short Course Schedule


Expanding Your Horizons (EYH) Workshops

Each year we participate in Expanding Your Horizons (EYH) science workshops for young women in 6th grade through high school. This year we'll make presentations at four separate programs. If you are female and would like to volunteer to participate please contact Kathy Arnold, kvarnold.avs@gmail.com.