St. Petersburg College and industry leaders are teaming up to address the technician shortage in the booming semiconductor industry. Discover how this partnership creates a win-win situation.
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| From certificates to degrees, St. Petersburg College offers a variety of pathways to enter the exciting world of semiconductor technology. |
Florida, March 31, 2024:
St. Petersburg College (SPC) is teaming up with local semiconductor companies to create new training programs for aspiring technicians. The initiative comes in response to the growing demand for skilled workers in the industry, which plays a vital role in powering our everyday technology.
"Our region needs a highly skilled technician workforce," said Jackie Skryd, vice president of workforce development and corporate partnerships at SPC. "This partnership will help close the skills gap and prepare students for high-paying jobs."
SPC will work with companies like Plasma-Therm, a semiconductor chip manufacturer based in St. Petersburg, to design a curriculum that equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the field. The college's existing short-term training and certificate programs will also be incorporated to provide students with a variety of options.
"We want to change the perception of these jobs," said Abdul Lateef, CEO of Plasma-Therm. "These are not old-fashioned factory jobs. They are cutting-edge careers in advanced manufacturing."
The partnership will not only benefit students but also address a critical need within the semiconductor industry. By developing a strong talent pipeline, SPC and its industry partners can ensure a steady stream of qualified workers to meet the growing demand.
SPC's new programs will cater to individuals with varying educational backgrounds, from those seeking certifications to engineering graduates with four-year degrees. The college's curriculum will also provide pathways for career advancement, allowing graduates to progress into high-wage jobs within the engineering technology field.