Intel Launches Technician Apprenticeship Program in Arizona to Meet Semiconductor Industry Needs

Arizona INTI — Intel Corporation announced the launch of its first registered U.S. apprenticeship program for manufacturing facility technicians in Arizona. This program is conducted in collaboration with the Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA), the Phoenix Business and Workforce Development Board, the SEMI Foundation, the Maricopa Community Colleges District (MCCD), and the Fresh Start Women's Foundation. Over the next five years, Intel plans to train facility technicians through this apprenticeship program. Selected apprentices will become full-time Intel employees from day one and will earn certifications and college credits upon completing the one-year program.

Addressing the Skilled Workforce Shortage

Christy Pambianchi, Chief People Officer at Intel, stated, "Facility technicians are responsible for the setup, maintenance, and performance of the complex machinery used to build semiconductors. There is a small pool of applicants trained with these specific skills. Intel's new apprenticeship program addresses this challenge by providing hands-on training at our plants, expanding the semiconductor talent pipeline to help meet future workforce demands."

Traditional recruitment methods are no longer sufficient to meet the growing demand for skilled semiconductor technicians. According to industry data, the semiconductor sector is expected to add nearly 115,000 jobs by 2030, with around 58% of these new jobs at risk of going unfilled. Of the unfilled positions, 39% are projected to involve technician roles, most of which require a certificate or a two-year degree.

Benefits of Apprenticeships for Industry and Individuals

Apprenticeships offer a practical and effective way to train individuals for these roles, benefiting both individuals and organizations. Apprentices gain valuable industry-specific skills, experience, and knowledge, leading to enhanced career opportunities and contributing to a more skilled and competitive workforce. Apprenticeships are also a way to attract diverse talent with higher-than-average retention rates, with 90% of apprentices staying with their employers after completing the program.

Details of the Apprenticeship Program

The one-year apprenticeship program will involve a mix of classroom instruction and on-the-job training. Participants will be employed as Intel employees while learning the core competencies required for the facility technician role, including the basics of hand tools with mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and vacuum systems; fundamentals of electricity and electronics; chemical and gas handling; as well as communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills. Intel’s apprenticeship program provides more technical skills than other opportunities in the industry, focusing on hands-on skills in gas and chemical facility training.

Intel's Commitment to Workforce Development

This apprenticeship program is one of several Intel commitments to workforce development, with investments of over $250 million in academic collaborations over the past five years. Intel continues to partner with community colleges and non-profit organizations in Arizona and Oregon through two-week Fast Start pilot programs and in New Mexico with one or two-semester Mechatronics certificate programs. All these initiatives aim to support the growing job needs of the semiconductor industry and spark interest in new career paths among under-resourced communities.

In Ohio, Intel is working with the Ohio Association of Community Colleges' Semiconductor Collaboration Network to launch programs and career pathways designed to meet the demands of the semiconductor sector, drive economic development, and provide accessible education across the state.

Additionally, the Intel AI for Workforce Program is the first of its kind community college program offered free to participating schools. It provides over 600 hours of artificial intelligence (AI) content, professional training for faculty, and implementation guidance.

The Future of Workforce Development at Intel

Intel will continue to prioritize workforce development initiatives that create inclusive pathways, improve lives, and enable the company to create life-changing technology. With the proposed CHIPS and Science Act funding, Intel hopes to expand the new apprenticeship program to other U.S. sites.

For more information about 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.

Call to Action for INTI 2024

Don't miss the opportunity to witness and participate in the Indonesia Technology and Innovation 2024 (INTI 2024) exhibition at JI-EXPO from August 12-14, 2024. INTI is the largest technology and innovation exhibition in Indonesia, showcasing the latest innovations and advanced technology solutions. More information can be found at INTI Asia.