SEMI Foundation

Each Veterans Day, U.S. citizens pause to recognize the service, sacrifice, and leadership of the millions of Americans who have worn our nation’s military uniforms. At the SEMI Foundation, we believe honoring that service also means creating meaningful opportunities for veterans, transitioning service members, and military families to bring their skills and experience into the industries shaping our future.Semiconductor employers need skilled talent. At the same time, people leaving military service bring technical aptitude, leadership, attention to detail, teamwork, adaptability, and a mission-focused approach that can translate exceptionally well to this industry. Yet one challenge continues to stand between military talent and semiconductor employers: translation.A military role rarely has the same title as a semiconductor position. A veteran may have years of experience maintaining sophisticated equipment, troubleshooting complex systems, leading teams, working with electronics, managing logistics, or operating in highly controlled environments without realizing those capabilities align with jobs throughout the semiconductor ecosystem. This Veterans Day, SEMI VetWorks is helping make that connection clearer.A New VetWorks Resource for EmployersThe SEMI Foundation is releasing an updated VetWorks guide designed to help employers better attract, understand, hire, and retain military-connected talent. The guide builds on VetWorks' longstanding employer resources with new military-to-semiconductor career crosswalks, training recommendations, career pathway examples, and practical guidance for recruiters and hiring managers. A centerpiece is a set of 50 military-to-semiconductor career crosswalks developed to connect military careers with potential semiconductor roles. The resource identifies likely skill gaps and offers suggested training pathways, ranging from relatively light upskilling through more advanced technical preparation.Melinda Gomez with Stefanie Watson and Sierra Schafer of Hiring Our Heroes at Veteran Advisory Council Meetings in Seattle, WAThe goal is not to suggest that every military occupation maps perfectly to a single civilian position. Instead, it is to give employers a better starting point for recognizing transferable experience and looking beyond job titles.Employers can access VetWorks resources through SEMI's VetWorks toolkit.Learn From the Organizations Already Doing the WorkResources matter, but partnerships are just as important.On November 4, 2026, the SEMI Foundation convened employers and veteran-serving partners for a virtual VetWorks gathering focused on military talent and employer engagement. The program featured partner spotlights from VetSTEP, Hiring Our Heroes, Heroes MAKE America, and the Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF), followed by a discussion of how employers can work with these organizations to strengthen military recruiting efforts. These partnerships are an important reminder that semiconductor companies do not have to build military recruitment programs alone. VetWorks brings together employers with government, education, and veteran service organizations to help create stronger connections between military communities and semiconductor careers.View the VetWorks Partner Convening recording on Semi Foundation YouTube.Turn Connections Into Careers With ChipPathUltimately, awareness and translation have to lead to opportunity. ChipPath Talent Marketplace signup pageThat is where ChipPath, the SEMI Foundation's industry-wide talent marketplace, comes in. ChipPath connects talent with semiconductor employers and career opportunities, with over 160,000 job openings sourced from 1,200 U.S. SEMI member companies. And employers now have another way to participate.ChipPath Employer Registration and the Employer Dashboard are Now LiveCompanies can register for an employer account, manage roles automatically sourced from their career pages, refine the skills associated with openings, and improve how positions are presented and matched to candidates.On this Veterans Day, we invite the semiconductor industry to move from appreciation to opportunity by taking action: Register for an employer account on ChipPath.Download the VetWorks guide. Learn from organizations already serving the military community. Give recruiters and hiring managers the tools to recognize transferable skills. Register your company on ChipPath. And, most importantly, take another look at the veterans and transitioning service members whose experience may be exactly what your organization needs.Their military title may not look like your job title, but their skills just might.Melinda Gomez is Senior Manager, Workforce Engagement Military Initiatives, SEMI Foundation.

The excitement was apparent leading up to the SEMI Foundation’s micro-credential development meeting at GateWay Community College in Phoenix. In preparation, we met with several industry leaders to determine which skills they believed were most essential for their entry-level workforce. In addition, we invested in a job task analysis and a field test for our Equipment Maintenance Technician certification.We felt ready for just about anything, until the massive 5 a.m. thunderstorm hit in the middle of the desert. That was something we hadn’t planned for. We thought about our carefully scripted agenda for the next three days. Would educational institutions and companies openly discuss their struggles with curriculum, hiring, and retention? Also, would they really share their industry knowledge, best practices, and internal training documents with us? Through our experience, we know that educators and private sector leaders sometimes speak different languages. Could we bridge that divide and reach an agreement on a pathway that ultimately leads to rewarding careers in semiconductors? Even more fundamentally, could we come together for the good of the industry? We couldn’t help but wonder: would lightning really strike twice in the desert?A Better Way to Evaluate TalentWeather notwithstanding, we could immediately tell this wouldn’t be just another meeting. For starters, the cross-sector engagement was incredible. The meeting convened industry leaders from Advantest, Amkor, EMD, FM Industries, Intel, and TSMC, along with workforce development and training experts, college educators, and SEMI Foundation employees.Guiding the process was Dr. Tina Koepf from the National Occupational Competency Testing Institute (NOCTI), the leading provider of industry credentials and technical education resources across the United States. Dr. Koepf is a psychometrician with expertise in manufacturing credentials and a doctoral dissertation on high-quality assessments.For many of the organizations represented, this was their first exposure to the relatively new concept of micro-credentials. Ultimately, the goal of micro-credentials is to help verify an individual’s knowledge and skill level in specific disciplines that have practical, real-world relevance.To best understand the role of micro-credentials, imagine being a hiring manager trying to choose an entry-level maintenance technician. You’d likely review a series of resumes and hold interviews with candidates that seem promising on paper. But right off the bat, you’re at a disadvantage. You might see a transcript for a mechatronics program, but that person went to a school you’ve never heard of. Another candidate might not have much academic preparation but appears to have related experience in auto mechanics. A third might have military training and experience. It’ll quickly become apparent that conventional hiring evaluations can only go so far to answer what you really want to know: Which candidate is most prepared to be a productive team member from the start? It’s also important to understand which candidate has the biggest inclination to learn, grow, and succeed.This is where relevant credentials come in. When credentialing programs are created through industry-wide collaboration, they’re better positioned to offer the knowledge and skills needed for today’s jobs, including process and maintenance technicians, supervisors, and engineers.Credentials take various forms, with certificates being the most common. Certificates show that an individual has completed a course or program; however, they don’t necessarily communicate what was learned and to what level of mastery. From there, certifications add another level of verification. Unlike certificates, certifications are based on a standardized assessment of a core body of knowledge. The highest-quality certifications are industry-recognized and third-party validated. In the case of SEMI CredentialingTM, that third party is NOCTI. Like certifications, micro-credentials still involve rigorous exams set to industry standards, but as the name implies, they’re smaller and focused on specific areas of knowledge and readiness. SEMI’s micro-credentials complement SEMI Certifications and provide another way for job seekers to demonstrate readiness for semiconductor careers. Based on a survey of semiconductor manufacturers and interviews with HR professionals, training leaders, and subject matter experts, we prioritized four areas of learning for our new and upcoming micro-credentials. These areas include:Cleanroom Operations and Safety Fab Maintenance, Tools, and MetrologyVacuum Technology Gas and Chemical Distribution SystemsSubject matter experts from industry and academia came together to develop SEMI micro-credentials.Micro-Credential Development ProcessOn the day of our meeting, we leveraged the subject matter expertise in the room to build lists of key competencies, prioritize the most important areas for assessment, and write test questions for each of the four micro-credentials. Everyone was amazed at the progress made in just three days.For Ron Mueller, an engineer at FM Industries and 41-year industry veteran, the workshop exceeded his expectations. “The collaborative discussions and real-world examples presented in the meeting helped me better understand how micro-credentials can be applied across different technical roles and career pathways while supporting the labor force needed,” he said. Kate MacArevey-Colello, an engineering instructor based in California, saw equal benefit from her vantage point in higher education. She explained, “I was really impressed at the coordination of the process and the high level of constructive collaboration among the participants. Micro-credentials can help industry by creating clearer pathways into technical careers. For MiraCosta Technology Career Institute, I see micro-credentials as a way to strengthen connections between our programs and a broader range of employers. Micro-credentials can also give students new ways to demonstrate the skills they've developed and help convince employers at semiconductor-related companies that they are good employment prospects.”GateWay Community College is building a Future48 Workforce Accelerator in Central Phoenix to provide hands-on training in semiconductors. Set to open in 2027, it will be a new resource for Arizona fabs.Representatives from FM Industries, GateWay Community College, Advantest, Intel, TSMC, NOCTI, MiraCosta TCI, Amkor (not pictured), and EMD (not pictured) provided technical expertise to develop credentials of value.What Comes Next?The SEMI Foundation’s micro-credentials are in the final phases of development. Two of the micro-credentials debuted at SEMICON West, along with the highly anticipated Equipment Maintenance Technician certification. Want to get involved? Job seekers can complete this form to learn more about the Equipment Maintenance Technician certification and SEMI Foundation micro-credentials.Colleges and training centers can apply to become testing sites for the Equipment Maintenance Technician certification.Employers can provide technical subject matter expertise to our two upcoming micro-credentials: Vacuum Technology and Gas and Chemical Distribution Systems.Brent Weil is a workforce development consultant and president of Strategic Workforce Partners. Anissa Hamdon-Morison manages curriculum development and training initiatives at the SEMI Foundation.

This summer, the SEMI Foundation brought together 16 high school students from Taiwan and four students from Pennsylvania for the inaugural SEMI Global Schools Academy, a five-day learning experience connecting sustainability, emerging technology, semiconductor careers, and global collaboration.The Academy is one part of the broader SEMI Global Schools model. Classroom and school-based programs give students opportunities to explore semiconductors, sustainability, artificial intelligence, and related careers where they already learn. The Academy builds on that approach by giving a smaller group of students a deeper opportunity to learn across institutions and communities.Students used Micro:bit sensors and AI-driven data analysis to explore environmental challenges including air quality, flooding, wastewater, and sea-level rise, with hands-on activities ranking among the most highly rated parts of the Academy.Following the Academy, nine in 10 participating students reported interest in the semiconductor industry—an encouraging indication that meaningful exposure can help young people see possibilities they may not have previously considered. Connecting Institutions Across BordersWhat made the Academy possible was not a single organization or campus, but a network of institutions working together.In Taiwan, schools, educators, government partners, and advisers helped prepare and support the participating students. In the United States, universities, local governments, educators, community organizations, and industry partners contributed expertise and learning opportunities.SEMI Global Schools serves as a connector across that ecosystem, bringing together institutions that already have strong relationships with students, communities, technology, and the semiconductor industry.That approach also makes the model adaptable. Rather than creating something entirely new in every region, Global Schools can build on the schools, universities, government partners, community organizations, and companies already there.Learning Through Technology, Sustainability, and CommunityStudents began their week at The College of New Jersey, where a sustainability professor from the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) introduced climate change, systems thinking, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.Throughout the week, students explored artificial intelligence, semiconductors, sensors, coding, micro:bits, environmental monitoring, and data. They considered how technology might help address real-world challenges involving air quality, energy, transportation, infrastructure, and community well-being.The goal was not to turn students into semiconductor experts in five days. It was to help them understand that the technologies they use every day are connected to a much larger ecosystem—and that there are many different ways to participate in it.Students also learned that the semiconductor workforce extends beyond engineering to areas including sustainability, data science, supply chain, business, communications, education, public policy, and workforce development.Learning Beyond the ClassroomThe Academy also gave students opportunities to experience that ecosystem firsthand.Students learned at The College of New Jersey and the New Jersey Institute of Technology, participated in outdoor environmental learning at the New Jersey School of Conservation, visited Princeton University, and engaged with technology and semiconductor professionals.They also interacted with Princeton Mayor Mark Freda and Chester Mayor Stefan Roots, connecting their learning to broader conversations about education, technology, workforce development, and community opportunities.Just as importantly, Taiwanese and American students worked together throughout the week, sharing perspectives, solving problems, and learning across cultural and language differences.Building on What Already WorksThe Academy is one part of a broader Global Schools model that also includes classroom and school-based programs. Those programs can reach students where they already learn, while experiences like the Academy provide a deeper opportunity to engage across institutions and communities.The inaugural Academy offered an early example of what that model can look like: students from Taiwan and Pennsylvania learning together about sustainability, AI, semiconductors, and community challenges while engaging universities, industry, educators, and civic leaders.As the semiconductor industry grows globally, helping young people understand that ecosystem earlier matters.That is the vision behind SEMI Global Schools: connect strong institutions and create meaningful opportunities for more students to see where they might fit in the technology workforce of the future.As the semiconductor industry expands, workforce development, education, community capacity, and strong local institutions will increasingly be part of the infrastructure that supports sustainable growth.Learn more about the SEMI Foundation and SEMI workforce development programs addressing the global semiconductor industry’s talent gap.AcknowledgmentsDr. Prabhakar Shrestha, Assistant Director of Sustainability, New Jersey Institute of TechnologyRandall Solomon, Executive Director, Sustainable Jersey for Schools The New Jersey School of ConservationMelissa Taggart, Senior Director, Project Learning Tree Development and StrategyMary Westlund, Manager, Education Systems, Project Learning TreeBia Hamed, Ph.D., is Program Manager, Global Education Initiatives at the SEMI Foundation, Dr. Yi-Hsuan (Tim) Hsu is Adjunct Professor at National Tainan University in Taiwan, and Justin Harris is Senior Advisor for Climate Equity Social Impact at SEMI.

The semiconductor industry continues to grow at an unprecedented pace and so does the demand for highly skilled employees at all levels in the industry. With the focus on reshoring manufacturing in the United States, we are increasingly faced with two questions: 1) how to identify talent that is ready to work today with the skills and experience that they already have and 2) how to best prepare a workforce for tomorrow, to meet the estimated shortage of 59,000-146,000 technicians and engineers by 2029. The SEMI Foundation – the workforce development arm of SEMI – provides solutions to address the talent gap and more through programs such as SEMI Credentialing. This innovative effort that helps employers identify talent, jobseekers communicate their work readiness, and training and education providers align their programs to industry needs.SEMI Equipment Maintenance Technician CertificationIndustry subject matter experts who provided initial inputs for the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA) of an Equipment Maintenance Technician.The SEMI Foundation is building out the first nationally accredited, industry-recognized Equipment Maintenance Technician Certification. In collaboration with industry leaders like Micron, GlobalFoundries, Intel, Western Digital, TEL, Onto Innovation, and others, we have identified the key competencies for equipment maintenance technicians. Individuals from 45 companies across 16 states have provided technical subject matter expertise, resulting in one of the most regionally diverse and comprehensive certification offerings to date. Our partner, NOCTI, an ISO-certified credentialing provider, is in the final stages of developing the certification exam. Our two-part certification exam includes 100 multiple choice questions that assess a candidate’s knowledge of safety, quality, electrical and mechanical principles, maintenance principles, and semiconductor industry awareness, as well as a hands-on electrical and pneumatic skills-based performance task. Educators from 12 community colleges and universities across the United States developed the questions, ensuring the highest academic standards and rigor. This certification will allow job seekers to demonstrate their readiness and create clear pathways into technician roles for qualified individuals regardless of their previous training. Furthermore, the Equipment Maintenance Technician certification will establish a national source of truth for curriculum alignment made available to training providers and educators and ensure relevance and continuity through routine industry review. The SEMI Equipment Maintenance Technician Certification will launch regionally in Spring 2026. National roll-out is scheduled for Fall 2026, and we encourage training and industry partners to connect with us directly to ensure early access to the certification.SEMI Endorsement of Programs and CoursesPartners from 12 community colleges and universities provided their expertise in developing test questions for the SEMI Certification.The SEMI Foundation is endorsing programs that prepare entry-level workers for success in the semiconductor industry. Since 2024, we have endorsed programs at Austin Community College, Foothill College, NY Creates, and WGNStar. These programs, and others like it, are emblematic of what strong partnerships between academia and industry can look like. Learners seeking programs can look to these as options for their education. Receiving SEMI Endorsement for Programs and Courses conveys that: Learners who are new to the semiconductor industry and successfully complete the program will be well-prepared for entry-level roles; Program completers have had exposure to fundamental semiconductor industry information and context, as well as introductory hands-on experience; Completers of these programs have the specific knowledge and skills required for entry level positions; andProgrammatic design and content have been informed through input and feedback from local industry partners.As we continue to expand the portfolio of programs and courses that the SEMI Foundation endorses, we are looking increasingly at programs with strong industry alignment and clear pathways for learners once they complete their training, be that apprenticeships, additional training, or direct access into the workforce.Microcredentials and MoreThe SEMI Foundation is a leader in convening stakeholders across academia and industry in support of workforce development initiatives. This unique ability to bring together diverse perspectives positions us to play a central role in shaping the future of skill validation. Microcredentials address several key changes and trends in training, including the rising costs of education coupled with an increased appetite for hands-on learning opportunities. Microcredentials are stackable, adaptable, and aligned directly with workforce demands. Learners can build competencies step-by-step. Employers can identify specific skill sets with greater precision. Education providers can modernize programs to reflect emerging technologies and evolving roles. We are forming panels and committees to explore the idea of microcredentials, as our partners are looking to us for innovative ways to recognize short-form training programs, amplify opportunities for individuals in up-and-coming regions, and continue to connect our partners in service of workforce solutions. In addition, the SEMI Foundation is exploring the provision of badges to teachers, career counselors, and other educators to demonstrate their knowledge and awareness of semiconductor careers.As we continue to drive solutions and add value to the world of credentials, we look forward to ongoing conversation and collaboration with partners. Every conversation we engage in about credentialing strengthens our offering and ability to provide solutions to the semiconductor industry’s growing workforce demands. Anissa Hamdon-Morison is Manager, Curriculum Developer Training at the SEMI Foundation

In the summer of 2025, I had the privilege of leading more than a dozen SEMI Foundation STEM summer camps in schools across multiple communities.Each camp brought students face-to-face with hands-on engineering challenges, semiconductor learning modules, and conversations about the careers connected to what they were building.What stood out most wasn’t just the energy in the classrooms; it was the moment students began to see themselves in futures they hadn’t previously imagined. For many, it was their first exposure to the semiconductor industry. Their first time hearing about advanced manufacturing careers. Their first time understanding that a certificate, credential, or engineering degree could lead to a stable, high-quality job shaping the technologies that power modern life.And it reinforced something we believe deeply at the SEMI Foundation, that workforce development does not begin at graduation; it begins in grade school with early awareness and intentional exposure.Starting Earlier: Where the Semiconductor Workforce Truly BeginsBuilding a strong, future-ready semiconductor workforce does not begin in college, or even high school. It begins in the earliest years of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) exposure.Since 2003, I have created STEM programming that introduces college majors and career pathways to K–12 students. At the SEMI Foundation, that work now connects directly to one of the most urgent workforce challenges of our time, ensuring the semiconductor industry has the skilled talent needed to support domestic manufacturing expansion and global competitiveness.When elementary and middle school students engage in hands-on STEM experiences, they build confidence. They develop technical vocabulary, critical thinking skills, and resilience. They begin to understand how the devices they use every day are designed and manufactured. That early spark matters, especially in industries like semiconductors, where awareness has historically been limited among younger students.Moving From Exposure to Industry ExplorationAs students progress, programming must move from exposure to exploration.Through SEMI Foundation initiatives, including hands-on camps, classroom modules, and industry-connected programming, students begin to see how semiconductors power everything from smartphones and AI to healthcare systems and clean energy technologies.Middle school and early high school programs should intentionally connect STEM learning to real-world applications:Engineering design challenges tied to semiconductor conceptsProject-based learning informed by industry practicesCareer speakers from manufacturing and technical rolesMentorship that reflects diverse entry points into the industryThis stage is critical for workforce development. Quality hands-on learning must be paired with representation and mentorship. Students need to hear authentic stories about different pathways into technical fields, whether through two-year degrees, apprenticeships, industry certifications, or four-year engineering programs.High School: Where Awareness Becomes PreparationHigh school is where exploration must transition into preparation.Structured career pathways, dual enrollment opportunities, industry certifications, internships, and apprenticeship models create tangible bridges between classroom learning and workforce entry.When students graduate with credentials aligned to high-demand sectors, including advanced manufacturing and semiconductor production, they leave with more than knowledge. They leave with validated skills and industry relevance.This alignment does not happen by accident. It requires coordinated partnerships between K–12 systems, higher education institutions, workforce agencies, and employers. At the SEMI Foundation, we work to support this alignment so curriculum reflects industry needs and students experience clear, navigable pathways into careers.When education and industry move in sync, skills gaps narrow, and regional economies strengthen.Sustaining Momentum: Postsecondary and Employer PartnershipPostsecondary institutions and employers play a pivotal role in sustaining momentum.Stackable credentials, registered apprenticeships, and paid work-based learning models allow students to build competencies while earning income. Clear articulation agreements between high schools, community colleges, and universities reduce talent loss and create seamless transitions. In the semiconductor industry, where technical precision and specialized skills are essential, these structured pathways are not optional. They are foundational.A Long-Term Vision for Semiconductor Workforce GrowthThe semiconductor industry powers nearly every aspect of modern life. But sustaining that innovation requires long-term workforce vision. The students I met in our 2025 summer camps reminded me of what is possible when exposure meets opportunity.When we start early, align intentionally, and collaborate across systems, we do more than prepare a workforce. We cultivate the next generation of innovators who will design, build, and lead the technologies shaping our future.Bia Hamed is Program Manager, Global Education Initiatives at the SEMI Foundation.

When most people hear “semiconductors,” they think of something abstract: tiny chips, complex equations, cleanrooms hidden behind glass. Relevant, sure, but distant. Compare that to professions like architects or doctors. We can picture their training. We understand their impact. We see a clear path from curiosity to contribution. The semiconductor industry deserves the same clarity and more. Because semiconductors don’t just power devices. They power progress. The semiconductor industry plays a crucial role in sustaining modern life and will remain instrumental in the future. We know this all too well because most of us work within this industry. It isn’t abstract or difficult for us to see how we fit into the grand scheme of this critical industry. It is important to reflect on our initial motivation for entering this field. The technological advancements we are currently developing were likely beyond consideration when we began our careers. Historically, we’ve done a great job of explaining how someone becomes a doctor or an architect: education, residency or apprenticeship, specialization, growth. The semiconductor industry can and must do the same.Imagine clearly mapped pathways that show:High school students how math, science, and technical programs connect to real semiconductor jobsCommunity college and university students how internships, co-ops, and labs translate into manufacturing, design, or research rolesCareer-changers and Veterans how reskilling programs, certifications, and on-the-job training can open doors without starting overWhen people can see the steps, the industry becomes less intimidating and far more inviting.Introducing ChipPathThis is where the SEMI Foundation’s newest platform, ChipPath, comes in! ChipPath, powered by the National Network for Microelectronics Education (NNME) , makes it easier for individuals to understand where they fit today and where they can grow tomorrow. “ChipPath marks a major step forward in our mission to connect people to opportunities in the semiconductor industry,” said Shari Liss, Vice President of Global Workforce Development and Initiatives at SEMI. “By combining career exploration, education pathways, and live job data into one platform, we’re not just helping individuals find jobs, we’re helping them build lifelong careers that drive innovation and impact.”ChipPath helps users explore roles across the semiconductor ecosystem, not just by job title, but by skills, interests, and pathways. A student interested in problem-solving, automation, or precision work can see how those interests translate into manufacturing, technician, or engineering support roles. A career-changer with experience in logistics, quality, or data analysis can quickly identify how their existing skills map to in-demand semiconductor jobs.This shift from “Do I belong here?” to “I can see myself doing this” is foundational. When people can visualize a role that fits them, they are far more likely to pursue it with confidence.Perhaps most importantly, ChipPath doesn’t end with exploration and preparation, it connects talent to actual job openings across SEMI member companies. By serving as a shared access point between job seekers, educators, training providers, and employers, ChipPath strengthens the entire talent ecosystem. Candidates gain visibility into opportunities they may never have discovered on their own. Employers gain access to a broader, more diverse, and better-prepared pool of talent aligned to semiconductor workforce needs.This connection transforms workforce development from a fragmented effort into a coordinated system; one where awareness, training, preparation, and hiring reinforce one another.Access for job seekers doesn’t end once they apply. ChipPath includes resources that help them prepare for the next critical step: the interview. Through guidance on interviewing expectations, communication, and workplace readiness, ChipPath helps candidates show up informed, confident, and prepared to engage. This preparation reduces anxiety for candidates and increases the likelihood of successful matches for employers.When candidates understand how to talk about their skills, experiences, and potential in industry-relevant terms, interviews become more productive, and hiring decisions become clearer.For employers, ChipPath is more than a platform, it has the potential to be a workforce multiplier. It reduces friction for job seekers, improves candidate readiness, and helps align skills with real demand across the industry. By leveraging ChipPath alongside outreach and engagement strategies, employers can help create a talent journey that is easier to navigate, access, and succeed in.When people can see where they fit, understand how to prepare, and connect directly to opportunity, the semiconductor industry becomes within reach.Job seekers today want and need more than just a salary; they want meaningful work and pride in what they do. Our industry offers these opportunities, but we must guide them to find it.Visit http://nnme.org/chippath to explore the platform, build your profile, and take your first step toward a future in semiconductors.Melinda Gomez is Program Manager, Veteran Initiatives at the SEMI Foundation.

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 MatchVeterans 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 OpportunityAcross 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 EffortMany 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 EffortThis 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.

This year, the Women in Semiconductor (WiS) program takes a huge step growing nationally — hosting events in New York, Michigan, Ohio, California, and Arizona. Managed by the SEMI Foundation, the WiS program aims to highlight women’s contributions and leadership in the semiconductor sector and actively address the gender gap to support inclusive workplaces.Over the years, WiS has shifted from an abstract discussion to actionable strategies—focusing on skills like negotiation, strategic decision-making, storytelling, and career advancement. WiS also promotes allyship, inviting and including men to participate as advocates and supporters of women in the industry.Building on the program’s strong momentum, this year highlights the initiative’s growth and impact through expansion across multiple regions – focusing on the theme “Empowerment in Action: Real Strategies for Women’s Success” dedicated toward impactful, actionable programming.The first 2025 WiS program was held in Albany, NY, in conjunction with ASMC on May 8. New WiS programs are scheduled in the following locations:Ann Arbor, Michigan on September 16, 2025Willoughby, Ohio (date to be announced)San Jose, CA on November 20, 2025Phoenix, Arizona on December 11, 2025The WiS is supported by grants from the Kellogg Foundation and the David Lucile Packard Foundation. The programming is also aligned with SEMI Foundation’s Chips Childcare program, which supports childcare-access solutions to strengthen workforce participation—particularly for parents and caregivers. Learn more in our blog: Affordable, Accessible, and Quality Childcare: A Critical Workforce Development Strategy for the Semiconductor Industry.The WiS initiative has evolved into a powerful platform that blends strategic programming, mentorship, allyship, regionally accessible events, and support systems like childcare advocacy. It’s an inspiring example of how consistent focus and innovation can build meaningful change over nearly a decade. If you’re interested in getting involved, contact Bia Hamed at [email protected]. Bia Hamed, Ph.D., is Program Manager for Global Education Initiatives at the SEMI Foundation, focusing on educational programming that supports workforce pipeline building nationally and internationally.

“In today's ever-evolving professional landscape, empowering women and fostering their success is not just necessary—it's essential," said Caryn Veach, a long-time Women in Semiconductors (WiS) committee member. Veach is a strategic account manager at Kokusai Electric Corporation, which sponsored the WiS program in Albany, New York in May. Additional sponsors included Axcelis, Energetiq (a Hamamatsu Company), IBM, Nikon Precision and Onto Innovation.This year’s WiS theme, "Empowerment in Action: Real Strategies for Women’s Success," was designed to provide all attendees with actionable strategies to support women's career growth and representation, as well as lead to greater talent retention and workforce stability. The program, which was open to everyone at the co-located SEMI Advanced Semiconductor Manufacturing Conference, was co-chaired by Joy Racowski, PhD., Strategic Account Sales Engineering Manager - Delivery Systems Services at EMD Electronics and Rosanna Robert, ES Process Engineer ll at TEL Technology Center America.Keynote speaker Jennifer Lynn, Cybersecurity Leader and Research Security Program Manager at IBM Semiconductors emphasized the significance of community in driving change. She stressed the role of Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) as a collective voice to advocate for safer and welcoming workspaces where all individuals feel respected and valued. Some key takeaways from Lynn’s address: champion supportive career initiatives, become a mentor or find a mentor, and be an ally in support of peer success. Shari Liss, Vice President of Global Workforce Development and Initiatives at SEMI, moderated a panel which also highlighted real strategies for women’s success. Panelists from EMD Electronics, Entegris, TEL Technology Center of America and University at Albany focused on actionable strategies which everyone, not only women, can implement to navigate corporate environments. They encouraged WiS participants to challenge norms which penalize specific employees. Panelists invited attendees to discover and embrace what makes them unique and use that as a strength for themselves as well as others. (l-r) WiS panel: Shari Liss, SEMI; Jennifer Braggin, Director, Technology, Office of the CTO, Entegris; Daniel Drellich, Managing Director Sr. Vice President of Business Partnering, EMD Electronics; Kathleen Dunn, PhD, Professor of Nanoscale Science and Engineering, University at Albany; Alex Oscilowski, President, TEL Technology Center AmericaImposter Syndrome is a common challenge to women and those who are new in their career or leadership role. Panelists advised everyone to push through it and support others who might feel this way. Assertiveness is an area which should be seen as a strength rather than a disadvantage, especially for women; it’s important that different voices and opinions are heard. Finally, panelists urged everyone to give credit where it is due and actively support team members and peers.The program concluded with an interactive workshop facilitated by Debbie Gustafson, CEO of Energetiq Technology. Attendees were invited to craft an elevator pitch which could be used when networking or applying for a new job or position. Common elements of a pitch include a concise description of oneself, a unique value proposition and a call to action for one’s audience or employer. WiS was an empowering experience with excellent opportunities to network with female business leaders from around the country as well as recent college graduates and industry professionals from major semiconductor manufacturers. There is something uniquely impactful about coming together with other women and peers who understand the challenges and opportunities of our industry. These events create space for honest conversations, meaningful networking, and a sense of community. It is a reminder that that together we can drive change and support one another in powerful ways. Through grants from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation and the David Lucille Packard Foundation, the SEMI Foundation is expanding Women in Semiconductors programming to several regions around the country. In addition to an event in San Jose, California there will be programs in Arizona, Michigan and Ohio in the second half of 2025. For information on WiS in Michigan, visit https://semiscan.org/event/women-in-semiconductors/.Empowering women in the workplace requires persistent effort and community support. By embracing these strategies and advocating for necessary changes, organizations can pave the way for a more equitable future. And just like the Kokusai Electric embrace of Tai-wa, a Japanese word meaning "synergistic discourse", WiS encourages face-to-face conversations and a willingness to understand others with a sense of empathy and respect for everyone.Margaret Kindling is Senior Program Manager at the SEMI Foundation. She has promoted inclusive workplaces via initiatives like WiS, Semiconductor PRIDE and workforce development programming at SEMICON West, SEMICON India and SEMIEXPO Heartland. After a combined 37 years at SEMI and the SEMI Foundation, she will be retiring in August 2025.

The SEMI Foundation is undertaking a bold, novel approach to ensuring that the semiconductor industry has the skilled talent it needs to thrive. With a $40 million initial award from the U.S. National Science Foundation together with the U.S. Department of Commerce, and up to $160 million additional funds over the next five years, we have launched the National Network for Microelectronics Education (NNME), which is designed to reshape the landscape of microelectronics education and industry career awareness. The NNME is a federal effort to develop, connect and multiply workforce development activities throughout the nation to meet the needs of the semiconductor industry. The SEMI Foundation now serves as the Operating Hub of the NNME and will support large, multi-state regional coalitions of workforce development performers, called Regional Nodes. Collectively, the Hub and the Nodes will work to transform semiconductor industry training and awareness to provide pathways toward economic opportunity for American workers, and to provide industry the workforce it needs to grow to $1 trillion by the early 2030s.Join the NNMEOn July 16, 2025, we will begin accepting Letters of Interest (LOI) from institutions interested in leading or joining a Regional Node. Read on and visit www.nnme.org for more details.The ChallengeThe semiconductor industry has layered workforce development challenges, including: Greying workforce, with 30% of our workers over 50Aging infrastructure and a significant instructor shortageMicroelectronics curriculum that is often outdated and not aligned with industry needs, leading to critical gaps in learner knowledgeNo standardization of microelectronics learning across the fieldDuplicative and disconnected educational efforts nation-wideAn industry largely invisible to many students and jobseekersThe new industry investments spurred by the CHIPS and Science Act mean tremendous economic opportunity for more workers, bolstered American manufacturing, and a stronger U.S. microelectronics sector. None of this can be fully realized without a much larger and highly skilled workforce trained in today’s and tomorrow’s technologies.There have been numerous local, state, and federal workforce development initiatives to address some of these issues, and highly successful programs in various regions; but these have never been connected in a systemic way. This means people and institutions across the country are working separately to solve a collective problem. The NNME will connect and support these efforts, facilitate cross-regional learning, and braid together resources to illuminate the industry to students and jobseekers nationwide.The Solution“Talent is infrastructure,” said Shari Liss, Vice President of Global Workforce Development and Initiatives of SEMI. “We need skilled and job-ready talent at all educational levels to power the semiconductor industry. We have been working for years with educational and workforce leaders to design this national collective effort and we are thrilled to finally launch this transformative work.”The NNME is designed not as a series of isolated interventions, but as a cohesive, forward-looking national strategy. Grounded in the realities of a high-growth industry and an underprepared workforce system, NNME’s goals respond directly to the needs expressed by semiconductor employers, policymakers, educators, and learners. The NNME will:Design, develop, modernize, and disseminate industry-aligned curricula and share best practices across the networkDevelop regional partnerships and local workforce pipelines including colleges, universities, workforce development programs, labor, community-based organizations, and industry to create a national technical workforce that meets the evolving needs of industryFacilitate apprenticeships, internships, and other applied learning experiencesBuild, host, and update an open-source digital portal that houses the updated industry-aligned curricula for adoption in training programs nationwideConduct a major industry awareness, microelectronics education, and career opportunity campaign including PreK-12 schools and STEM organizationsThe NNME will be comprised of the Coordinating Hub (operated by the SEMI Foundation) and Regional Nodes which will be funded by the Hub. Regional Nodes will be comprised of workforce development performers – industry members, academic institutions, training providers, community-based organizations, and more. Collectively, the Hub and Nodes will execute the above activities with a commitment to information sharing and collaboration, transparency, responsiveness and agility, excellence, and accountability. Finally, the NNME is committed to expanding access to microelectronics careers for Americans from every region and walk of life. NNME initiatives are designed to open doors to technical training and career exploration for high school students, veterans, people returning to work, college students, and others seeking high-quality jobs in this critical industry, as well as provide opportunities for current professionals looking to grow their careers. Call for ParticipationThe SEMI Foundation is soliciting LOIs for performers interested in leading or joining a Regional Node. Information on node requirements and performer eligibility can be found on the NNME website at www.nnme.org. The solicitation goes live on Wednesday, July 16. An informational webinar will be held on Wednesday, July 23, and LOIs will be due on Friday, August 8 at 5 p.m. EDT. The NNME envisions a future in which every American, regardless of where they live or how they start their journey, can pursue a rewarding, well-paying career in microelectronics. The NNME will be instrumental in helping to build a robust and vibrant semiconductor industry by fueling it with a wide range of skilled workers and creating a broad pipeline of future talent. Our intention is to serve as the nation's premier resource for microelectronics education and training, connecting learners to employers, programs to successful outcomes, and empowerment to opportunity. We invite industry members and other workforce partners to join us in this work. Together, we will strengthen the talent pipeline that powers American leadership in semiconductors and advanced manufacturing. For more information, contact us at [email protected] or visit www.nnme.org. Michelle Williams is Executive Director at the SEMI Foundation.