The U.S. chip industry needs more workers, and community colleges are stepping up with short, low-cost training programs. Some can prepare students for jobs in just a few months.
A Free 12-Week Program in Arizona
Rio Salado College in Tempe, Arizona, is one of the schools shortening courses that once took up to two years. After working with companies like TSMC and Intel, the college opened a free, 12-week semiconductor program to the public this fall.
The program, called the Microelectronics and Nanomanufacturing Certificate Program, was launched about three years ago with Penn State and Arizona State University. It mixes online lectures with hands-on training at ASU, and it is a noncredit course.
About a dozen students are taking the program this fall.
Real Jobs After Training
Rick Vaughn, who manages technology and engineering courses at Rio Salado, said about 75% of people who completed the training got semiconductor-related jobs. The program also gives students a chance to interview with major chipmakers in Arizona.
Finishing the course does not guarantee a job, but it prepares students to apply for entry-level roles.
Even Shorter Options
The Maricopa Community Colleges system also offers a 10-day, 40-hour Semiconductor Technician Quick Start at Chandler-Gilbert, Estrella Mountain and Mesa community colleges.
For people who want paid training, TSMC runs 12- to 18-month apprenticeships that combine on-the-job work with classes at partner colleges.
Other States Are Doing It Too
Similar short programs that lead to interviews with chip companies are offered at Austin Community College in Texas, West Valley College in Saratoga, California, and many other schools.