U.S. semiconductor industry faces worker shortage. Pearson and SEMI Foundation team up to connect students with career opportunities.
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| Connections Academy's tri-credit program combines with SEMI Foundation resources to prepare students for careers in the chip industry. |
The world runs on semiconductors – these tiny chips are the brains behind everything from computers and smartphones to cars and appliances. However, a looming workforce shortage threatens to stall this critical industry's growth. To address this challenge, Pearson's Connections Academy, a leader in online K-12 education, has joined forces with the SEMI Foundation, a champion for workforce development in the semiconductor industry.
A Growing Demand, a Shrinking Talent Pool
The projected growth of the semiconductor industry in the United States is staggering – nearly 80% by 2030 – requiring an estimated 460,000 new workers. This surge in demand creates a significant challenge, as the current talent pool is insufficient to meet these needs. The partnership between Connections Academy and the SEMI Foundation aims to bridge this gap by connecting students, families, and educators with the resources and opportunities they need to explore and pursue careers in this dynamic field.
More Than Just Awareness: A Multifaceted Approach
The collaboration goes beyond simply raising awareness of the semiconductor industry. Connections Academy students will have access to a range of valuable resources, including internships, apprenticeships, and scholarships specifically focused on semiconductor careers. Additionally, students can explore career-technical education training and earn digital badges that recognize their achievements and skills acquired through the SEMI Foundation's programs.
This partnership is particularly noteworthy for its emphasis on diversity and inclusion. The SEMI Foundation, with its established programs and connections to over 3,000 member companies, is well-positioned to ensure that students from all backgrounds are aware of the exciting and rewarding career paths available within the semiconductor industry.
Aligning with National Initiatives
This collaborative effort aligns perfectly with the U.S. government's efforts to revitalize domestic semiconductor production. The CHIPS and Science Act represents a significant investment in this initiative, providing funding and incentives for companies to build new semiconductor facilities within the United States. By creating a skilled workforce, the Pearson-SEMI Foundation partnership directly supports the goals of the CHIPS Act, ensuring a strong foundation for a robust domestic semiconductor industry.
Learning Reimagined: Building Skills for the Future
Connections Academy's existing tri-credit program serves as a perfect springboard for this partnership. This innovative program allows students to earn high school credit, gain industry-recognized micro-credentials, and potentially obtain college credit towards bachelor's degrees, all while completing their coursework online. The integration of resources from the SEMI Foundation further strengthens this program, providing students with a comprehensive learning experience that equips them with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the semiconductor industry.
Building a Brighter Future
The partnership between Pearson's Connections Academy and the SEMI Foundation signifies a proactive approach to building a future-proof workforce. By combining access to educational resources with direct industry connections, this initiative empowers students to explore and pursue rewarding careers in the critical semiconductor industry. As the industry continues its rapid growth, this collaboration serves as a model for fostering a skilled, diverse, and well-prepared workforce that is ready to lead the way in the years to come.