Every November, the U.S. pauses to honor those who have served our nation—the men and women whose dedication, discipline, and teamwork have safeguarded our freedom. The best way to thank veterans is not just with words. It’s with action.
In the semiconductor industry, that action means creating pathways for veterans to build meaningful civilian careers where their skills, experience, and values are not only recognized, but celebrated. Through SEMI Foundation’s VetWorks initiative, companies across the industry are doing just that, working together to raise awareness, share best practices, and open doors for the military community.
Through VetWorks, SEMI is proud to help veterans find new purpose in powering the technologies of tomorrow. And as more employers recognize the unmatched value of veteran talent, the industry will continue to grow stronger technically, strategically, and culturally.
Why Veterans and Semiconductors Are a Natural Match
Veterans bring the kind of precision, accountability, and technical excellence that drive the semiconductor industry forward. From operating complex systems to leading diverse teams under pressure, veterans possess the same qualities that make this industry thrive.
Kathy Garner, Director of Talent Acquisition at TEL (Tokyo Electron), notes:
“Veterans are well-versed in cutting-edge technology. Today’s military is high-tech, state-of-the-art, and computer-based. Veterans are uniquely matched to our industry as their jobs are highly technical and safety-conscious; they appreciate guidelines, follow directions, and possess a strong sense of team.”
This alignment of skills and culture makes veterans not just excellent employees, but invaluable contributors to the semiconductor industry’s mission of powering innovation and national competitiveness.
Turning Appreciation into Opportunity
Across the VetWorks Employer Group, companies are transforming gratitude into action by recruiting, training, and supporting veterans and reservists as they transition to civilian careers.
“I participate in VetWorks because I believe the brave men and women of our military deserve support and opportunities if they choose to enter the civilian workforce,” said Katie Maloney, Business Line Manager at Edwards Vacuum. “They have sacrificed for our country, and we can help connect them to a rewarding career in the semiconductor industry. This transition is often stressful for military members and their families, despite the fact that veterans are ideally suited for the many roles our industry needs to fill. As a Navy veteran, participation is a small way for me to pay it forward.”
“The semiconductor industry is full of veterans,” said Curtis Geroy, Manager of Military Talent Acquisition at Applied Materials and a U.S. Navy Reserve Officer. “Serving as a reservist and having leaders who understand my commitment to duty gives me the extra support needed to meet my reserve obligations.”
These stories reflect what’s possible when companies don’t just honor veterans but invest in helping them translate their service into purposeful, future-ready careers.
An Industry-Wide Effort
Many leading employers are already stepping up and partnering through SEMI VetWorks, including Applied Materials, ASM, ASML, Edwards Vacuum, EMD Electronics, Entegris, KLA, Lam Research, Micron, Polar Semiconductor, TEL, TSMC, and Western Digital, among others.
Together, they form a growing network of organizations committed to building awareness within the military community, connecting veterans to open roles, and ensuring every company in the semiconductor ecosystem is ready to support them.
Through joint events, outreach to bases, storytelling, and shared best practices, the VetWorks Employer Group is showing that this isn’t just a workforce initiative, it’s a movement to strengthen the entire industry while honoring those who have served.
Join the Effort
This Veterans Day, let’s remember: saying “thank you” is important, but hiring, supporting, and championing veterans is even more meaningful.
If your company is looking to start or grow its veteran hiring and support programs, SEMI VetWorks can help you connect with partners, share resources, and build sustainable pathways for veterans into your workforce. Download the Employer’s Guide to Military Hiring, learn more and get involved in the SEMI VetWorks initiative.
Melinda Gomez is Manager of Military Initiatives at the SEMI Foundation.
