The SEMI Foundation, in partnership with the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF), has officially launched the first four Regional Nodes of the National Network for Microelectronics Education (NNME). The initiative marks a major step in strengthening U.S. semiconductor workforce development and preparing skilled talent for the growing microelectronics industry.
SEMI Foundation Launches NNME Nodes
The newly launched NNME Regional Nodes will serve multiple regions across the United States. The initiative is aligned with the CHIPS and Science Act and focuses on building a nationwide ecosystem for semiconductor education, workforce readiness, and career pathways.
The four regional hubs are led by organizations including the Arizona Commerce Authority, Boise State University, NY CREATES, and the University of Texas at Austin. Together, these nodes connect more than 325 organizations, including schools, universities, workforce agencies, and semiconductor companies.
Expanding Semiconductor Workforce Training
The NNME program is designed to address the increasing demand for skilled semiconductor professionals across manufacturing, packaging, integrated circuit design, and advanced technologies.
According to the SEMI Foundation and McKinsey & Company, the United States could face a shortage of up to 157,000 semiconductor and microelectronics workers by 2030. The new regional nodes aim to reduce this gap by modernizing training systems and improving access to technical education.
Industry and Education Collaboration
Industry leaders will play an active role in shaping training programs, validating technical skills, and creating work-based learning opportunities. Companies across the semiconductor ecosystem are expected to collaborate closely with educators and workforce partners.
Micron Technology highlighted the importance of industry-wide cooperation, stating that workforce expansion requires strong partnerships between employers, educational institutions, and regional organizations.
Addressing America’s Talent Gap
The NNME initiative represents a long-term national strategy to strengthen America’s position in semiconductor manufacturing and innovation. Through regional collaboration and scalable workforce programs, the network aims to create more opportunities for students and workers entering the microelectronics sector.
The SEMI Foundation stated that the initiative will help build a resilient talent pipeline capable of supporting future economic growth, advanced manufacturing expansion, and technological leadership in the United States.
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