FSI Workforce Development Program of Excellence Awards
The following organizations and teams have been honored for demonstrating outstanding contributions to workforce development, training, and operational excellence—ensuring the strength, skill, and sustainability of our industry’s talent pipeline.
Lake Mary High School, Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Academy
The Advanced Manufacturing and Innovation Center supports the continued preparation of 21st century learners in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). Our mission is to develop innovative problem-solvers. Students will be engaged with post-secondary students, local businesses and NASA, encouraging joint project collaboration. The manufacturing program at Lake Mary High School helps students build a broad foundation of knowledge and skills to prepare them for postsecondary studies and careers in high-tech industries.
University of South Florida, NSF Research Traineeship (NRT) Program for Advancing Semiconductor Education and Training
The NSF Research Traineeship Program (NRT) awarded a 5-year, $3 million funding to the University of South Florida (USF) for the development and implementation of a comprehensive and experiential learning-based education, research, training, and skills development program in semiconductor design, manufacturing, and packaging for graduate students. The NRT is a prestigious, national program that supports annual cohorts of Trainees in developing the skills, knowledge, and competencies needed to pursue a range of STEM careers.
Valencia College, A.S. Degree in Semiconductor Engineering Technology
Semiconductor Engineering Technology associate in science degree program is designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in the semiconductor industry. It also provides the opportunity for individuals currently working in the field to upgrade skills and knowledge for career advancement. This state-of-the-art program offers a broad background in semiconductor technologies and applications, maintenance, operation, and management of cleanroom facilities including protocols, policies, and regulations for a safe cleanroom environment.
Introducing Etch
Etch, a state-led initiative, is now launched! This initiative is designed to bridge the gap between education and careers in semiconductors. Led by the Florida Semiconductor Institute (FSI), and co-funded by the Florida Semiconductor Engine, Etch aims to foster innovation, talent, and economic growth.
Increasing Internship Opportunities
The Florida Semiconductor Institute, in collaboration with the Florida Advanced Technological Education Center (FLATE), offers dynamic internship opportunities that bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world experience. These internships are designed to provide university and technical college students with hands-on exposure to high-tech industries, preparing them for in-demand careers in advanced manufacturing and semiconductor technology.
Interns work alongside industry professionals, contributing to meaningful projects that enhance their skills in automation, process control, quality assurance, and more. With mentorship from FLATE’s extensive network of educators and industry leaders, students gain valuable insights into the latest technologies, tools, and trends driving innovation in manufacturing.
FLATE internships are more than just work experience—they’re a launchpad for a future in Florida’s growing semiconductor industry. Join us to gain the skills and connections you need to thrive in this exciting and evolving sector!
Creating New Industry Driven Industry Certifications
The Florida Semiconductor Institute is proud to collaborate on the development of a new industry-aligned certification in partnership with the Smart Automation Certification Alliance (SACA). This credential is specifically designed to address the skills gap in semiconductor manufacturing, ensuring Florida’s workforce is prepared to meet the demands of this new high-tech industry.
SACA certifications are globally recognized and focus on hands-on, competency-based training. The new certification will equip students, educators, and workers with the practical skills needed to succeed in areas such as automation, quality control, and semiconductor manufacturing processes. By embedding this certification into training programs across the state, we’re empowering learners to gain in-demand skills while providing industry partners with the qualified talent they need to thrive.
Stats at a Glance
$73 billion
Florida’s manufacturing sector, which includes semiconductor manufacturing, has seen substantial growth, contributing $73 billion to the state’s GDP in 2022, up from $43.5 billion in 2014.
12,900 Jobs
The state provides approximately 12,900 jobs in the semiconductor sector, underscoring its role as a major employment hub in this field.
Increasing Awareness
We are strengthening Florida’s semiconductor workforce pipeline by engaging educators, students, and industry leaders. Key initiatives include partnering with training providers near industry hubs, integrating semiconductor modules into STEM programs, and equipping educators with the necessary resources. Collaborating with aerospace, defense, and manufacturing consortia, we align workforce efforts and share best practices to enhance industry readiness. Targeted awareness campaigns further highlight Florida’s leadership in semiconductor workforce development.
Looking ahead, we will expand hands-on student engagement through robotics, coding, and circuit design competitions, along with industry tours and career days. By connecting students with semiconductor facilities and labs, we aim to build a strong, sustainable talent pipeline for the industry.
Ecosystem Strengthening
We are building a strong semiconductor workforce ecosystem by helping to enhance training infrastructure, streamlining career pathways, and fostering industry collaboration. Current efforts include building out primary training hubs at institutions like UF, USF or UCF, that are supported by satellite programs in state and technical colleges. Through our partnership with FLATE, we support industry by providing paid internships. Additionally, we are developing bootcamps for in-demand skills and a centralized digital platform to connect students, educators, and employers with job opportunities, training resources, and career pathways.
Looking ahead, we will tailor workforce strategies to local needs while aligning with statewide goals. We also plan to partner with research institutions for ongoing skills analysis and expand access to semiconductor training through innovative digital learning solutions.