Overview

The scope of this project is to create and implement semiconductor workforce development programs that benefit the entire Greater Lafayette region. This project is needed in light of the SkyWater $1.8B semiconductor manufacturing facility that will be built in West Lafayette and is expected to bring 750 jobs to the region. This partnership between Purdue University and Ivy Tech Community College will address the semiconductor talent pipeline including high school students by offering associate degrees and technician training as well as bachelor’s degrees and engineer training. The training program will assist unemployed or underemployed workers to obtain high paying, long-term jobs ($60,000 - $130,000 per year). The requested budget is $5M over four years, from 2023 until the end of 2026. The project costs will include development of new courses, refining existing courses; professional development for instructors, train the trainer workshops; purchasing equipment and consumables for hands-on training; developing materials and scaling up of programs; faculty and staff time, including new hires; high school program expenses (stipends, transportation); outreach, engagement, and marketing. The success will be measured by the number of students trained through this program, number of students placed in jobs, number of courses offered and talent.