Advancing the microelectronics workforce — today, tomorrow and beyond
Arizona State University is leading the way in building the highly skilled microelectronics workforce our nation depends on. Through innovative degree programs, specialized training and industry-aligned partnerships, ASU is preparing talent at every level — from K-12 outreach to advanced professional development.
Our goals
ASU’s Microelectronics Workforce Development Hub is designed around a simple mission: to align academic excellence with industry needs.
We focus on:
Developing pathways that prepare students for careers in microelectronics and advanced manufacturing.
Expanding access to hands-on, industry-relevant training for learners of all backgrounds.
Strengthening collaboration with national partners and government agencies to accelerate workforce readiness.
Building lifelong learning opportunities, including microcredentials, professional training and executive education.
Focus areas
Academic degrees and pathways – Preparing students through degrees, certificates, research projects and internships aligned with in-demand microelectronics careers.
Microcredentials and professional pathways – Delivering stackable, skill-focused offerings like microcredentials and certifications for rapid upskilling and reskilling.
K–12 engagement – Building awareness and pathways through exploration events, experiential learning and high school academic programs.
Infrastructure access – Providing leading facilities and digital training platforms from MacroTechnology Works and the ASU NanoFab to future advanced packaging labs and virtual learning tools.
Partnerships – Uniting industry, academia and government through major investments and initiatives like Applied Materials, SWAP Hub, SHIELD USA and SEMI University.
Teacher and faculty development – Equipping K–12 and higher-ed educators with training and resources to deliver semiconductor-focused curricula and inspire future engineers.
Our impact at a glance
5,400+ degrees awarded
in critical microelectronics engineering fields since 2022.
6.7% growth
in engineering degrees awarded (2023–24).
4,600+ ASU alumni
employed at Arizona semiconductor companies (Intel, TSMC, Microchip, Amkor and others).
12,000+ enrollments
in microelectronics technical electives since 2022, a 20% increase.
41 microcredential courses
launched since 2024 in semiconductor packaging and smart manufacturing, with more than 1,900 badges awarded.
87,000 global enrollments
reached through 13 Coursera courses.
42 veterans
trained through partnership programs.
K–12 pipeline
1,800+ ASU Prep students, 227 Fulton Summer Academy participants, 80+ MicroMaker Camp participants, 25 ASU Prep teachers introduced microelectronics in summer 2025.
Shared priorities
Unified in purpose — ASU, SWAP Hub and SHIELD USA are advancing workforce development together.
Through strategic partnerships supported by the U.S. Department of War (SWAP Hub) and the U.S. Department of Commerce (SHIELD USA), ASU aligns its workforce development initiatives with national priorities. Together, these programs expand educational pathways, increase access to training, and accelerate America’s capacity to lead in microelectronics.
Shape the future of microelectronics with ASU
Microelectronics is the foundation of modern technology, and the need for skilled talent has never been greater.
Whether you’re a student exploring career opportunities or an industry leader seeking a pipeline of trained professionals, ASU is your partner in advancing the field.
Students
Learn more about tech electives focused on semiconductor manufacturing, research opportunities and internships.
Industry partners
ASU offers partnership options and services capable of meeting enterprise needs at any scale.