The Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) is proud to announce it has been selected as a National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC) Workforce Partner Alliance (WFPA) program awardee. The $1.7 million in grant funding will enable MCCCD to continue leading transformative workforce development programs in Arizona aimed at closing crucial workforce and skills gaps across the U.S. semiconductor industry.
“Since 2018, Arizona’s semiconductor industry has experienced a 22% increase in employment growth. With more than 200 semiconductor companies located throughout the state, we know Arizona will continue to be a hub for innovation, furthering the need for a skilled workforce,” said Dr. Steven R. Gonzales, MCCCD Chancellor. “Thanks to our existing program offerings and key industry partnerships, MCCCD is uniquely positioned to respond to the industry’s rapidly changing workforce demands. This funding will not only allow us to enhance our current program offerings but also provide training opportunities to a diverse group of learners, including women, students of color, and first-generation college students, resulting in a more diverse and qualified technician workforce.”
What’s New
The WFPA program is administered by Natcast, the purpose-built, non-profit entity created to operate the NSTC consortium, established by the CHIPS and Science Act of the U.S. government. On September 25, Natcast announced $11.5 million in anticipated total WFPA awards coinciding with the launch of the NSTC Workforce Center of Excellence (WCoE).
Currently offered at three of the system’s 10 colleges—Chandler-Gilbert Community College, Estrella Mountain Community College, and Mesa Community College—funding from Natcast will allow MCCCD to expand its Semiconductor Technician Quick Start training to Glendale Community College, ensuring geographic coverage for individuals seeking training throughout the Valley. Additionally, MCCCD will develop and implement the Maricopa Accelerated Semiconductor Training (MAST), a stackable course that will support in-demand, technician-level positions identified by industry. As the largest workforce training provider in the state, MCCCD's expanded programming will prepare an additional 300 individuals for careers as semiconductor technicians in Arizona's booming semiconductor industry, addressing the region's growing demand for highly skilled workers and reinforcing Arizona's position as a global semiconductor leader.
"MCCCD plays a critical role in advancing Arizona's position as a global leader in semiconductor manufacturing. Our Semiconductor Technician Quick Start and the future MAST initiative represent our deep commitment to fulfilling immediate industry demands and building a sustainable talent pipeline for the future,” said Leah Palmer, Executive Director of the Arizona Advanced Manufacturing Institute at MCCCD. “We are grateful for the NSTC Workforce Partner Alliance Program for helping us empower students with the skills they need for high-quality, high-paying careers. We look forward to continued collaboration with our industry partners, including Intel, TSMC, and others, as we shape the workforce of tomorrow."
Why It’s Important
Arizona has emerged as a major hub for semiconductor manufacturing due to the Valley’s skilled workforce, tax credits and incentives, workforce training programs, land development opportunities, and proximity to key markets. Through the CHIPS Act, the state has committed to maximizing research and development opportunities and launching a collaborative effort that brings together government, industry, trade groups, workforce and economic development organizations, and higher education—including community colleges—to create a semiconductor ecosystem. Since 2020, Arizona has won more than 40 semiconductor expansions, representing over $102 billion in capital investment, allowing the state to position itself as a key player in the global industry.
As part of the initiative, MCCCD will collaborate with the Arizona Office of Economic Opportunity (OEO) and the Arizona Commerce Authority to ensure the training aligns with industry needs. This industry-driven approach will provide participants with valuable opportunities for employment and career advancement in the semiconductor industry and help employers fill critical workforce needs.
“This award is a victory for Arizona as the state continues to lead the country in job growth. Workforce development is a top priority as demonstrated by Governor Hobbs’ recent Talent Ready AZ Executive Order, and the state is honored to partner in this vital work to build a skilled workforce to power Arizona's growing semiconductor industry," said OEO Director Carlos Contreras. "By contributing funding to provide much-needed support to industry-leading instructors, OEO commits to ensuring the Semiconductor Technician Quick Start and MAST programs provide the expertise needed for success. In partnership with MCCCD, OEO will also provide economic analysis and other support to strengthen this program and help secure Arizona’s leadership by driving long-term growth and innovation in this key sector."
The WFPA program is the first of several anticipated workforce program funding opportunities to be offered through the NSTC Workforce Center of Excellence. With a $250 million investment from the U.S. Department of Commerce, the WCoE will lead collaborative efforts with NSTC consortium members to drive innovation and significantly bolster the U.S. semiconductor workforce development ecosystem to strengthen America’s national security, economy, and global competitiveness.
"The WFPA funding will create opportunities for thousands of students, educators, and professionals to join the U.S. semiconductor workforce, supplying employers with in-demand talent and solidifying the U.S. as a leader in this vital industry,” said Michael Barnes, Senior Manager of Workforce Development Programs at Natcast. "By investing in transformative programs like Semiconductor Technician Quick Start and MAST, we’re ensuring that American workers are equipped with the skills necessary to compete in the global semiconductor market.”
What’s Next
In 2023, Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs announced the creation of a new semiconductor-focused Future48 Workforce Accelerator in collaboration with MCCCD. Opening in 2026 at GateWay Community College’s Central City campus, the state-of-the-art facility will establish a first-of-its-kind training pathway for students to pursue careers in the microelectronics industry.
To learn more about the NSTC Workforce Partner Alliance program, the NSTC Workforce Center of Excellence, or other workforce funding opportunities, please visit www.natcast.org/workforce.