On Wednesday, September 11, 2024, The Florida Semiconductor Institute (FSI) and Smart Automation Certification Alliance (SACA) formalized a partnership by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This partnership will synergize academic rigor, subject-matter experts, and industry guidance to develop the first-in-the-nation industry-recognized credential for semiconductors.
FSI and SACA each recognize the important roles they hold in co-creating new semiconductor and electronics industry credentials that address both current and emerging technologies. Together, FSI and SACA will engage with industry and academic experts to integrate their input into the credentialing program, collaborate on promotional activities to raise awareness of the new credentials, and foster industry participation and adoption.
“This exciting partnership is just what the U.S. semiconductor-industry ecosystem needs to more rapidly and effectively address its large and growing workforce challenge,” said Dr. Jack Judy, University of Florida Professor, and FSI Deputy Director for Workforce Development.
This MoU supports FSI and SACA’s respective missions and achieves their common aim of supporting, strengthening, and growing the semiconductor workforce, by creating an accessible and affordable nationwide credentialing program. Industry credentials are extremely valuable for individuals entering the semiconductor workforce as well as educational institutions providing training. The development of an industry-endorsed credentialing program ensures the cultivation of a highly skilled workforce, which is integral to growing the semiconductor industry in Florida and nationwide.
SACA is a recognized and trusted leader in professional certification, with a proven track record in developing and managing Industry 4.0 credentialing programs that reflect industry standards and best practices. Once established, SACA will oversee the credentialing process, including assessment, and certification.