Offers Expanded Access to Hands-On Semiconductor Learning for Students, Educators, and Families
PHOENIX, Arizona – April 14, 2026 – The SEMI Foundation today announced the extension of SEMIquest, its immersive, hands-on STEM experience at Arizona Science Center through May 31, 2026. Originally launched in conjunction with SEMICON West 2025, the extended run will provide thousands more students, educators, and families with direct exposure to the semiconductor industry and the career pathways powering today’s technology-driven world.
This extension is made possible through the continued support of industry partners like TMSC, Amkor, Nikon, and ASM, reinforcing a shared commitment to strengthening Arizona’s and the nation’s microelectronics workforce pipeline.
SEMIquest is part of the SEMI Foundation’s broader effort to build a future-ready workforce for the semiconductor and microelectronics industry. Through initiatives such as the National Network for Microelectronics Education (NNME) and SEMI University (SEMI U), the Foundation is aligning education, workforce systems, and industry to create clear, scalable pathways into high-demand careers.
“Extending SEMIquest allows us to deepen our impact at a moment when awareness must translate into action,” said Perla DeBaggis, Sr. Specialist, Career & Industry Awareness Navigator at the SEMI Foundation. “Students are not just learning about semiconductors. They are seeing where they fit. This experience makes the industry more real, accessible, and within reach, and that is how we begin to build the workforce of the future.”
Expanding Access to High-Impact STEM Experiences
Since its debut in October 2025, SEMIquest has served as a dynamic entry point for more than 80,000 visitors, giving them a glimpse into the world of semiconductors through interactive, career-connected learning experiences designed to move students from curiosity to exploration. With the extension through May 31, even more visitors will have the opportunity to engage with:
- A pop-up exhibition showcasing real-world semiconductor applications
- Hands-on STEM activities
- “Day in the Life” insights from industry professionals
- Career pathway exploration tied to real jobs in the field
- Educator resources designed to bring semiconductor learning into classrooms
“SEMIquest has become a powerful way to connect our community to one of the most important industries shaping our future,” said Tammy Stewart, Interim Hazel A. Hare President & CEO, Arizona Science Center. “We are proud to continue partnering with the SEMI Foundation and industry leaders to extend this experience and inspire even more students across Arizona to see themselves in STEM and semiconductor careers.”
From Awareness to Opportunity
The SEMI Foundation’s approach goes beyond exposure. SEMIquest is designed as a critical early step in a larger approach that connects awareness to education, training, and ultimately employment in the microelectronics industry. By extending the exhibition, the Foundation and its partners are strengthening that pipeline at a time when demand for skilled talent continues to grow.
Educators, students, families, and community organizations are encouraged to visit Arizona Science Center and experience SEMIquest before it closes on May 31.
To learn more about SEMIquest and how to get involved, contact Perla DeBaggis at [email protected].
About the SEMI Foundation
The SEMI Foundation’s mission is to support economic opportunity for workers and the sustained growth of the microelectronics industry by creating pathways for job seekers and providing tools and systems for semiconductor companies to attract, develop, retain, and advance a diverse and skilled workforce. Learn more and follow the SEMI Foundation on LinkedIn.
About SEMI
SEMI® is the global industry association connecting over 3,000 member companies and 1.5 million professionals worldwide across the semiconductor and electronics design and manufacturing supply chain. We accelerate member collaboration on solutions to top industry challenges through Advocacy, Workforce Development, Sustainability, Supply Chain Management and other programs. Our SEMICON® expositions and events, technology communities, standards and market intelligence help advance our members’ business growth and innovations in design, devices, equipment, materials, services and software, enabling smarter, faster, more secure electronics. Visit www.semi.org, contact a regional office, and connect with SEMI on LinkedIn and X to learn more.
About Arizona Science Center
Located in downtown Phoenix, Arizona Science Center is home to the Dorrance DOME—one of the most advanced digital domes in the world—where immersive astronomy shows, live performances, and community events bring art, science, and culture together beneath a dazzling 60-foot display.
Beyond the Dorrance DOME, the Science Center features more than 300 hands-on exhibits, a five-story giant-screen theater, live demonstrations, traveling exhibitions, and dynamic STEM programs for all ages. Offerings include Science on Wheels, CAMP INNOVATION, teen initiatives, professional development workshops, and Adults’ Night Out: Science With A TWIST. Whether onsite or at your location, the Center delivers unforgettable, hands-on STEM learning experiences. To learn more or reserve tickets, visit azscience.org or call 602.716.2000. Follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube.