Intel Launches Industry's First Stackable, Shareable and Transferable One-Year Semiconductor Technician Certificate Program

Intel Corporation is addressing the semiconductor workforce shortage by launching the industry's first stackable, shareable and transferable one-year semiconductor technician certificate program. The program is set to launch in 2023-24 and aims to build a talent pipeline to fill the growing workforce gap in the semiconductor industry. The program will be offered in collaboration with several colleges, including Columbus State Community College, Marion Technical College, Rhodes State College, North Central State College, Central Ohio Technical College, Clark State, Northwestern State, Stark State, Zane State, Owens Community College and Lorian Community College. The U.S. semiconductor industry is reportedly facing a significant workforce gap, with 58% of projected new jobs at risk of remaining unfilled at current degree completion rates. The industry is expected to grow from approximately 345,000 jobs today to approximately 460,000 jobs by 2030. To close this talent gap, Intel is creating regional programs in partnership with local community colleges to meet the workforce needs of the semiconductor industry. Intel's new chip factories in Ohio, expected to come online in the next few years, will require a large number of skilled technicians. The initial phase of the Ohio project is expected to create 3,000 Intel jobs and 7,000 construction jobs, supporting tens of thousands of additional local long-term jobs across a broad ecosystem of suppliers and partners. The new one-year certificate program includes three newly developed courses that align with the minimum technical skills required for an entry-level technician position at Intel. The courses include Introduction to Manufacturing, Semiconductor 101 and Vacuum Systems. The program is designed to reduce financial burden on students and attract a more diverse group of students. Intel is also collaborating with the National Science Foundation in two programs: Enhancing Engineering Technology and Advanced Semiconductor Manufacturing Technician Education (ETSTE) and Future of Semiconductors (FuSe) to ensure the U.S. workforce is ready for a new era in semiconductor manufacturing. Intel, a global leader in the semiconductor industry, continues to advance the design and manufacturing of semiconductors to address customers' greatest challenges. By embedding intelligence in the cloud, network, edge and every kind of computing device, Intel aims to transform business and society for the better.