As the semiconductor industry rapidly evolves in Florida, continuous skill and knowledge enhancement is essential for the workforce. Fortunately, a new partnership between two Florida innovators will help create opportunities for individuals to secure high-wage jobs in the semiconductor industry in the state, ultimately transforming lives and strengthening communities.
FSI and AmSkills Partner to Boost Florida’s Semiconductor Workforce
The Florida Semiconductor Institute (FSI) and AmSkills, Inc. (AmSkills) are excited to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at expanding the capacity and reach of workforce development initiatives in the semiconductor and microelectronics sectors throughout Florida.
“FSI is excited to partner with AmSkills, particularly to amplify engagement with un/underemployed adults and home school students in our communities.” said Dr. Jack W. Judy, Deputy Director of Workforce Development, Florida Semiconductor Institute, University of Florida
Through this collaboration, FSI and AmSkills will integrate and align their programs, infrastructure, and operational processes to significantly enhance workforce initiatives across the state. This partnership will expand AmSkills’ Career Discovery Bootcamp, a two-week mobile training program that establishes temporary training centers, statewide. Participants will gain new skills, earn nationally recognized certifications, and receive career coaching, culminating in guaranteed interviews with multiple employers.
In addition, FSI and AmSkills will expand the AmSkills NextGen High School and Home School technical programs, as well as the Florida Department of Education Registered High School Pre- Apprenticeship program, to additional regions across the state. In July, FSI formalized a partnership with Amatrol, a global leader in interactive, skills-based learning solutions for advanced manufacturing and Industry 4.0, by executing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). AmSkills established its partnership with Amatrol in 2023, becoming their first Regional Training Center at the AmSkills Workforce Innovation Center, located in Pasco County, Florida.
This initiative aims to prepare Florida’s future semiconductor workforce by supporting students from high school, home school levels, adults, veterans and those seeking new careers or technical skills.
Tom Mudano, President & CEO of AmSkills stated “AmSkills is thrilled to partner with FSI in this innovative effort to develop a skilled semiconductor workforce in Florida. By expanding our technical programs serving high school students, homeschoolers, and the AmSkills Career Discovery Bootcamp for adults seeking new career paths, we are creating unique pathways to high-wage jobs in a critical industry,”
The University of Florida, Florida Semiconductor Institute is leading one of seven regional hubs of a new, $285 million nationwide institute dedicated to advancing America’s semiconductor industry. AmSkills, is a 501(c)(3) organization with headquarters in Holiday, Florida, is a Florida Department of Education Registered Apprenticeship Program with a proven track record of developing comprehensive technical training and apprenticeships, focusing on recruiting, training, and sustaining a highly skilled workforce in the manufacturing sector. Together, AmSkills, Amatrol and FSI are building a pipeline of talent that will empower individuals, transform communities, and contribute to Florida’s leadership in the microelectronics and semiconductor sectors.