The 2022 CHIPS Act has resulted in a significant increase in funding for semiconductor manufacturing in the United States, creating a high demand for skilled workers in the industry. These semiconductor chips play a crucial role in powering various devices, ranging from smartphones and vehicles to advanced military equipment and artificial intelligence technologies. As a response to this growing demand, some colleges and universities are taking steps to train individuals and cultivate the future semiconductor workforce. Here is the story reported by Stephanie Sy for the series Rethinking College.
Tarji Borders, a former software developer, found herself unemployed and seeking new opportunities before discovering a two-week crash course in semiconductor manufacturing specifically designed for women. This program, a collaboration between a local community college and Fresh Start Women’s Foundation, equipped Borders with the skills needed to become a manufacturing technician at Intel’s campus in Chandler, Arizona. Despite her initial lack of knowledge about semiconductors, Borders successfully transitioned into this new role, highlighting the industry’s openness to individuals from diverse backgrounds.
The semiconductor industry offers promising career prospects, with semiconductor technicians earning an average annual salary of around $48,000, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Recognizing the need for skilled workers in this field, Intel has invested significant resources in workforce development initiatives, aiming to create thousands of new jobs in manufacturing facilities across several states. Additionally, industry experts predict the addition of 115,000 semiconductor jobs nationwide by 2030, emphasizing the urgent need for a qualified workforce to fill these positions.
To address this demand, educational institutions like Rio Salado College in Tempe have introduced specialized programs such as the microelectronics and nano manufacturing certificate program, tailored for veterans and offering a quick pathway into the semiconductor industry. By providing accessible training opportunities and fostering partnerships with community colleges, universities like Arizona State University are working to bridge the skills gap in semiconductor engineering and technology.
Furthermore, efforts to diversify the semiconductor workforce by recruiting individuals from underrepresented groups, including women and people of color, are essential for the industry’s long-term success. By offering flexible learning options and hands-on experiences, educational institutions can attract a broader range of students to pursue careers in semiconductor manufacturing and engineering. Jessica Hoover, an immigrant from Ecuador, shared her positive experience completing a semiconductor manufacturing certificate program, underscoring the transformative impact of accessible educational opportunities in this field.
As the semiconductor industry continues to evolve and expand, the need for skilled workers remains a top priority. Companies like Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) are implementing innovative strategies, including registered apprenticeship programs, to cultivate a talented workforce capable of operating advanced manufacturing facilities. By nurturing talent and fostering a culture of continuous learning, the semiconductor industry in the United States is poised for growth and innovation.
In conclusion, the semiconductor industry presents a wealth of opportunities for individuals seeking rewarding and dynamic careers. Through collaborative efforts between educational institutions, industry partners, and aspiring professionals, the future of semiconductor manufacturing in the United States looks promising. Tarji Borders’ journey from unemployment to a successful career in semiconductor manufacturing serves as a testament to the industry’s potential for transformation and positive impact on individuals and communities.
