What is Semiconductor Manufacturing?
Technology is run on computer microchips and integrated circuits. Almost everything has microchips within it. For example, computers, phones, cars, cameras, smart doorbells, automated irrigation systems, airplanes, and more. Semiconductor manufacturing is the process used to make the technology used every day. The building blocks to new discoveries are at your fingertips. From space exploration to finding new ways to treat cancer or develop the next microchip for tech products, the options are truly limitless with nanotechnology and semiconductor manufacturing.
NIICA Certification
Our programs are NIICA Certified, demonstrating alignment with industry-defined KSAs and employer job requirements in semiconductor and advanced manufacturing. This certification underscores our commitment to delivering industry-aligned education and preparing students for high-demand careers.
Rick Vaughn Faculty Chair, STEM Initiatives at Rio Salado College
As the faculty chair for STEM Initiatives at Rio Salado College, Dr. Rick Vaughn has a passion for all things Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM). He earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and computer science from the University of San Francisco, and a master’s and doctorate in mathematics from the University of California at Davis.
Rick has been with the Maricopa Community Colleges for 24 years, including 11 at Rio Salado. He has a strong commitment to the community with events that help learners of all ages see the wonders of STEM. As an example, he regularly conducts activities for kids at the Geek's Night Out festival in Tempe, AZ,
During his off time, he enjoys spending time with his family and friends, running, fishing, and traveling abroad. Learn more about Rick by reading the Meet the Faculty Profile: Dr. Rick Vaughn article.
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (480) 517-8661
Rio’s Semiconductor Training Program for Veterans Featured on PBS NewsHour
A new PBS NewsHour story focuses on how schools in Arizona are helping build the workforce to manufacture semiconductors in the U.S. The story highlights Rio Salado’s Microelectronics and Nanomanufacturing Certificate program for veterans, and how it is helping students get the education and hands-on experience needed to enter the booming semiconductor industry.
Program Grants
Rio Salado College is undertaking the work to increase the employee pool for the semiconductor manufacturing industry, which includes nanotechnology, thanks to grants awarded through the National Science Foundation as part of Advanced Technological Education. Learn more about these grants via the links below.
Program Grants
Semiconductor Pathways in Arizona's Technical Education (SP-ATE)
SP-ATE is designed to create accessible educational pathways from high school through community college to university. The program will equip Arizona students, especially those from underserved communities, with the skills needed to enter high-demand semiconductor technician roles offering competitive wages in the state's rapidly growing microelectronics industry. Grant #2500695.
Microelectronics & Nanomanufacturing Certificate Program
This program supports members of the U.S. military, veterans, and family members to gain the knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) to move into the semiconductor and microelectronics workforce.