Rio Salado, NAU Partner with TSMC for New Semiconductor Process Technician Apprenticeship

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Wednesday, November 20, 2024
Kate Smith along with valley leaders at the announcement of the TSMC Arizona apprenticeship program
Kate Smith with Ray Rivera and Steven Gonzales
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Rio Salado College is proud to announce its role in an innovative registered apprenticeship program designed to prepare students for careers in semiconductor manufacturing. This collaboration is part of a broader partnership announced Nov. 19 between Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) and Arizona higher educational institutions.

TSMC is currently building a semiconductor fabrication facility in the Valley, according to the TSMC website. It is one of three fab plants announced in May 2020, which are expected to bring 6,000 jobs to the Valley.

The initiative aligns with Arizona's growing role as a hub for semiconductor manufacturing fueled in part by the CHIPS Act - passed in 2022 to increase semiconductor manufacturing in the U.S. That sparked a nationwide endeavor to develop a skilled workforce for anticipated jobs. Those who enter the registered apprenticeship program will be employed by TSMC and learn skills from both Rio Salado and Northern Arizona University (NAU).

"Through the expansion of its apprenticeship program, TSMC is creating invaluable opportunities for our students to access high-demand careers in the semiconductor industry," said Dr. Steven R. Gonzales, Chancellor of the Maricopa County Community College District. "With Estrella Mountain and Rio Salado providing specialized curriculum for these roles, we are proud to play a vital role in preparing a diverse and skilled workforce to meet the needs of Arizona's growing semiconductor sector."

“We are eager to launch this opportunity that will help build the semiconductor workforce of the future and we are honored to partner with TSMC, Northern Arizona University and Estrella Mountain Community College in this endeavor,” said Rio Salado College President Kate Smith. “I am grateful for the vision and support of our state and business leaders to help make this possible.”

Drawing on a long history of technology education at Rio Salado, including the college’s Microelectronics and Nanomanufacturing Certificate program for veterans and its Advanced Technical Education NSF Grant-funded program, this partnership will increase opportunities for workforce entry.

Both programs gained recent national recognition on PBS NewsHour, which highlighted how Rio Salado, Penn State and Arizona State University (ASU) partner to provide educational and hands-on opportunities for students.

“Arizona is leading the way in developing a workforce for the semiconductor industry," said Dr. Rick Vaughn, Faculty Chair of STEM Initiatives at Rio Salado College. "Our Semiconductor Manufacturing curriculum and Microelectronics and Nanomanufacturing Certificate Program have already made significant strides, and this registered apprenticeship partnership allows us to expand those opportunities further.”

The registered apprenticeship unveiling took place during a November 19 press event in Phoenix, where Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs, City of Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego, and Chancellor Gonzales joined leaders from Arizona's higher education community to highlight the importance of these opportunities. The apprenticeships will be registered through the City of Phoenix. This joint venture joins Estrella Mountain Community College’s already established apprenticeship program.

As Rio Salado College continues to expand its semiconductor manufacturing programs, including a certificate of completion and an associate degree in semiconductor manufacturing, this partnership with NAU and TSMC represents the college’s mission to provide flexible, high-quality education that meets the needs of a diverse student population.

With this announcement, Rio Salado’s educational partners in the semiconductor manufacturing arena now include all three state universities: NAU, ASU and the University of Arizona.

For more information about Rio Salado College’s semiconductor programs, please visit riosalado.edu/semiconductor.

Learn more about the TSMC Arizona Registered Technician Apprenticeship program on their website.

About Rio Salado College
Rio Salado College is one of ten Maricopa Community Colleges and one of the largest online public community colleges in the nation, serving more than 35,000 students annually with more than 18,000 online in 50 states. Founded in 1978 and headquartered in Tempe, Arizona, Rio Salado College offers nearly 600 online classes, 135+ degree and certificate programs and general education courses. The college also provides support for dual enrollment, military and incarcerated students, and serves as the largest provider of adult education in Arizona.