New Opportunities Arise in Arizona’s Semiconductor Industry
The semiconductor sector in Arizona is poised for significant growth, thanks to an expanded apprenticeship initiative by TSMC Arizona. In a collaborative effort with state officials and educational institutions, new pathways into this thriving industry are being forged, opening doors to rewarding careers for local residents.
PHOENIX, AZ (November 19, 2024) – At the commencement of National Apprenticeship Week, TSMC Arizona announced a major expansion of its Registered Technician Apprenticeship program, with support from Governor Katie Hobbs and Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego. This announcement was made in conjunction with the Governors Apprenticeship Innovation Summit held in downtown Phoenix.
Technicians are pivotal to the operations of TSMC’s advanced semiconductor manufacturing facilities. The expanded program includes:
- New Equipment Technician Apprenticeships, with classroom learning at Estrella Mountain Community College.
- New Process Technician Apprenticeships, supported by Northern Arizona University and Rio Salado College.
- A Manufacturing Technician Specialist Intensive Program, in collaboration with Grand Canyon University and Western Maricopa Education Center (West-MEC).
- Additional Facilities Technician Apprenticeships continuing at Estrella Mountain Community College.
Rose Castaneres, president of TSMC Arizona, emphasized the collaborative nature of this initiative: “One of the top considerations in TSMC’s decision to expand here was the opportunity to tap a local and diverse talent pipeline and also to collaborate with a world-class US education system. Our first-of-its kind program for semiconductor technicians represents what’s possible when government, industry and education come together.”
Governor Katie Hobbs highlighted the economic impact of the semiconductor industry in Arizona, stating, “The semiconductor industry has created opportunities for countless Arizonans to gain access to good-paying, stable jobs. Today, we are making that opportunity more accessible by creating new pathways into this growing, high-tech sector through robust new apprenticeship programs.”
Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego expressed her support, noting, “Today’s announcement is a significant step forward in our commitment to invest in our residents and create new, high-wage career pathways into Arizona’s growing semiconductor industry.”
Earlier in the year, TSMC Arizona launched a pioneering apprenticeship program for Facilities Technicians, backed by classroom instruction developed with Maricopa Community Colleges. The first cohort began their training in April, with a completion timeline of 18-24 months.
TSMC Arizona is committing over $5 million to this program, covering on-the-job training and educational tuition, supported by the City of Phoenix and the Arizona Commerce Authority. Additionally, this initiative is part of the CHIPS Act funding incentive program to bolster the regional workforce.
As the TSMC Arizona facilities become fully operational, the workforce is expected to expand to nearly 6,000, including thousands of technicians. The company aims to recruit 130 new apprentices and trainees by 2025, alongside filling hundreds of open positions.
For more details and application information about the TSMC Arizona apprenticeship program, visit HERE.
Partner Quotes
Dr. Rey Rivera, President of Estrella Mountain Community College: “As cutting-edge companies like TSMC continue to create jobs here in Arizona, we are working together to provide the innovative training and partnerships needed to make those jobs attainable for our community.”
Paul Lambertson, Dean of College of Engineering and Technology, Grand Canyon University: “Grand Canyon University is thrilled to partner with TSMC and West-MEC to provide TSMC with a highly skilled Manufacturing Specialist workforce.”
Dr. Steven R. Gonzales, Chancellor of the Maricopa County Community College District: “Through the expansion of its apprenticeship program, TSMC is creating invaluable opportunities for our students to access high-demand careers in the semiconductor industry.”
Dr. Andy Wang, Director of the Metrology Research & Teaching Laboratory, Northern Arizona University: “NAU’s Metrology Research and Teaching Laboratory (MRTL) is proud to partner with Rio Salado Community College on the PTAP program for TSMC, modernizing workforce training with specialized curricula and unique organizational alignment.”
Dr. Rick Vaughn, Faculty Chair of STEM Initiatives, Rio Salado College: “Arizona is leading the way in developing a workforce for the semiconductor industry. Our Semiconductor Manufacturing curriculum and Microelectronics and Nanomanufacturing Certificate Program have already made significant strides.”
Dr. Scott Spurgeon, Superintendent, West-MEC: “West-MEC is thrilled to partner with TSMC on our innovative Manufacturing Intensive Program. This collaboration aligns perfectly with our mission to prepare students for high-demand, high-tech careers.”
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