Introduction
Intel has announced the launch of its first U.S. registered apprenticeship program for manufacturing facility technicians.
This groundbreaking initiative, set in collaboration with the Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA), the Phoenix Business and Workforce Development Board, the SEMI Foundation, Maricopa Community Colleges District (MCCD), and Fresh Start Women’s Foundation, aims to address the growing demand for skilled technicians in the semiconductor industry.
The program will be based in Arizona and will train facility technician apprentices over the next five years.
“Facility technicians are responsible for the setup, maintenance and performance of the complex machinery used to build semiconductors. There is a very small pool of trained applicants with this specific skill set. Intel’s new apprenticeship program addresses this challenge by providing hands-on training in our fabs, expanding the semiconductor talent pipeline to help meet the workforce demand of the future.
~Christy Pambianchi, Intel chief people officer
What’s New: Intel’s U.S. Apprenticeship Program
Intel is launching its first U.S. registered apprenticeship program for manufacturing facility technicians in Arizona.
The program is a collaboration with several local and industry partners and aims to train facility technician apprentices over the next five years.
Selected apprentices will be full-time Intel employees from day one and will earn a certificate and college credit upon successful completion of the one-year program.
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Why It Matters: Addressing the Skilled Workforce Shortage
The Growing Demand for Technicians
The semiconductor industry is on a trajectory of rapid growth, with the Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA) predicting the addition of nearly 115,000 jobs by 2030.
However, a significant portion of these new positions risk going unfilled due to a shortage of skilled workers. Specifically, 39% of the projected unfilled jobs are expected to be technician roles, which typically require certificates or two-year degrees.
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Intel’s Solution
Traditional recruiting methods are proving insufficient to meet the increasing demand for skilled semiconductor technicians.
In response, Intel’s new apprenticeship program offers a practical and effective way to train individuals for these critical roles.
Apprenticeships not only provide hands-on training but also offer individuals the opportunity to gain valuable skills, experience, and industry-specific knowledge.
This approach benefits both the apprentices and the organizations, leading to improved career opportunities and contributing to a more skilled and competitive workforce.
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How It Works: Program Details and Training Structure
Structure and Training
The one-year apprenticeship program combines classroom instruction with on-the-job training. Selected participants will be full-time Intel employees from day one, earning a certificate and college credit upon successful completion of the program.
The curriculum covers core competencies required for facility technician roles, including:
- Hand-Tool Basics: Mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and vacuum systems.
- Electrical Basics and Electronics: Fundamental principles and practical applications.
- Chemical and Gas Handling: Safe and efficient handling procedures.
- Soft Skills: Communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
Intel’s apprenticeship program emphasizes hands-on skills, particularly in gas and chemical facility training, providing more technical expertise than other industry opportunities.
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The Role of Facility Technicians
Facility technicians are responsible for the setup, maintenance, and performance of the complex machinery used to build semiconductors.
Given the specialized nature of these tasks, there is a very small pool of trained applicants with the necessary skill set. Intel’s apprenticeship program aims to expand this talent pool, ensuring a steady supply of skilled technicians to meet future workforce demands.
Broader Workforce Development Efforts
Academic Collaborations
Intel’s commitment to workforce development extends beyond the new apprenticeship program.
Over the past five years, the company has invested more than $250 million in academic collaborations.
These initiatives include partnerships with community colleges and nonprofits in Arizona and Oregon through the two-week Quick Start pilot program, and in New Mexico with a one- or two-term Mechatronics certificate program.
These programs aim to support the semiconductor industry’s growing employment needs and spark interest in new career pathways among under-resourced communities.
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Nationwide Initiatives
In Ohio, Intel is collaborating with the Ohio Association of Community Colleges’ Semiconductor Collaboration Network to launch programs and career pathways that meet the demands of the semiconductor sector. This initiative aims to foster economic development and provide accessible education across the state.
Additionally, Intel’s AI for Workforce Program, a first-of-its-kind community college program, offers more than 600 hours of artificial intelligence (AI) content, professional training for faculty, and implementation guidance, free to participating schools.
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Future Plans
Intel remains committed to creating inclusive pathways and improving people’s lives through workforce development initiatives.
With the proposed funding from the CHIPS and Science Act, Intel hopes to expand the new apprenticeship program to its other U.S. sites.
This expansion will further enhance Intel’s ability to develop life-changing technology and support the semiconductor industry’s workforce needs.
Conclusion
Intel’s launch of its first U.S. registered apprenticeship program for manufacturing facility technicians is significant. It addresses the skilled workforce shortage in the semiconductor industry. The program offers hands-on training and industry-specific knowledge. This enhances career opportunities for individuals. It also contributes to a more skilled and competitive workforce. Intel’s ongoing innovation and workforce development efforts are key. The company is well-positioned to meet the growing demand for energy-efficient, high-performance power solutions.
For more information on current job openings at Intel, visit Intel.com/jobs. Applicants must be at least 18 years old with a GED certificate or equivalent work experience.
