Sierra College partners with Bosch to offer a fast-track Mechatronics program, upskilling workers for the upcoming silicon carbide facility in Roseville, set to launch in 2026.
.jpg "First Certificates Awarded Under Fast-Track Mechatronics Program") |
| Sierra College awards certificates to Bosch associates in a customized Mechatronics program, preparing them for future work at Bosch’s silicon carbide fab in Roseville. Image: Sierra College |
Roseville, California , USA – February 14, 2025:
Sierra College On Wednesday awarded certificates of achievement to 10 Bosch associates who successfully completed a customized Mechatronics training program. This collaboration between Sierra College and Bosch aims to equip workers with the necessary skills as Bosch prepares for the production of silicon carbide chips at its Roseville site, set to launch in 2026.
"Sierra College is committed to working closely with local employers like Bosch to create tailored training solutions that meet their specific business needs," said Amy Schulz, Executive Dean for Workforce and Strategic Initiatives at Sierra College. "By partnering with Bosch, we developed a condensed Mechatronics program that focuses on the hands-on training employees will need as the new facility comes online. We're excited to support Bosch’s continued growth in our community."
Typically taking 18 to 24 months to complete, the Mechatronics certificate was accelerated into a one-year program by incorporating summer classes and additional lab space for Bosch associates. "Skilled workers are essential for the success of our silicon carbide fab," said Sara Lausmann, Line Maintenance Manager at Bosch in Roseville and a past Mechatronics graduate. "Sierra College was able to design a program that addressed our needs within just two months, helping our employees upskill ahead of the plant’s 2026 launch. This partnership is a great example of a win-win for both Bosch and the community."
In April 2023, Bosch acquired an existing wafer fab in Roseville and began transforming it into a state-of-the-art facility. Since the acquisition, Bosch has retained nearly all of the 250 associates as part of the transformation process. The company is investing up to $1.9 billion in the site, with support from a $25 million California Competes Tax Credit and up to $225 million in proposed funding under the CHIPS and Science Act.
Beyond workforce training, Bosch is also helping to build future semiconductor expertise. The Bosch Community Fund donated $100,000 to the Sierra College Foundation’s Career Technical Education Support Fund, aiding in certification fees, STEM competition expenses, project supplies, and more.
Sierra College’s Mechatronics program, part of its Business and Technology Division, covers robotics and industrial automation, offering students various educational options, including Associate Degrees, Certificates, and Skills Certificates. Graduates work in fields such as electronics, mechanical systems, semiconductors, manufacturing, and transportation.
Sierra College continually collaborates with industry groups to ensure its programs meet the demands of the evolving job market. Through its Career Continuing Technical Education programs, it prepares students for high-demand careers in sectors such as manufacturing, IT, health, public safety, and more. The college also provides customized training for businesses to retrain and upskill their employees.