ARIZONA – Intel has announced the launch of its first U.S. registered apprenticeship program for manufacturing facility technicians in partnership with the Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA), SEMI Foundation, Fresh Start Women’s Foundation, Maricopa Community Colleges and the Phoenix Business and Workforce Development Board.
The company plans to train dozens of facility technician apprentices over the next five years. Selected apprentices will be full-time Intel employees from day one and will earn a certificate and college credits upon successful completion of the one-year program.
“Since 1979, Intel has been a true partner in growing together and making our state the thriving and prosperous place it is today. This apprenticeship represents much more than just another program, it is a bridge for middle-class Arizonans to enter our state’s fast-growing semiconductor industry and launch a career with unlimited potential,” said Gov. Katie Hobbs.
Christy Pambianchi, Intel’s Chief People Officer, detailed that facilities technicians are especially hard to find, so the company’s apprenticeship program addresses that challenge by expanding the semiconductor talent pool and providing critical support structures especially needed for women and underrepresented groups.
The year-long registered apprenticeship program will include a combination of classroom and on-the-job training in partnership with the Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD).
Participants will be hired as Intel employees while learning the basic skills necessary to perform facility technician functions, including basic hand tool skills with mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic and vacuum systems; basic electrical and electronic skills; chemical and gas handling. Intel’s apprenticeship program provides more technical skills than other opportunities within the industry, focusing on hands-on skills in chemical and gas facilities training.
In November, Governor Hobbs announced the allocation of $4 million to facilitate the expansion of semiconductor apprenticeship programs in Arizona. The funds will cover the costs of tuition, books, materials and supplies for participating apprentices, as well as support services such as transportation and childcare.
The SEMI Foundation will leverage the funds to conduct employer outreach, assist in the establishment of new apprenticeship programs, and develop employer collaboration to leverage shared resources and best practices.
