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What’s going on:
Intel is preparing for the opening of two semiconductor plants east of Columbus, Ohio by 2025, according to WOSU Public Media. The company intends to hire around 3,000 employees initially and is investing $17.7 million in eight academic institutions over three years for course development, equipment, and recruitment of students.
These efforts are part of Intel’s $50 million commitment to Ohio’s higher education sector over the next decade. The investment is aimed at training students to become technicians and entry-level engineers. The initiative also features a rapid certification course to augment two- and four-year engineering degrees.
Why it matters:
A study by Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA) and Oxford Economics estimates a significant worker shortfall in the U.S. semiconductor industry by 2030. It’s estimated that there will be a deficit of approximately 67,000 workers, and the growing U.S. chip industry is going to have to fill these positions.
This initiative from Intel signifies a proactive approach by a major tech corporation to ensure they have a workforce ready with the necessary skills when their new plants become operational. This approach could serve as a model for other companies and states. Additionally, it shows how higher education is adapting to meet industry demands and the initiative highlights the value of these kinds of partnerships between businesses and educational institutions.
How it’ll impact the future:
Intel and Ohio academic institutions are placing an emphasis on continual learning, upskilling, and reskilling due to technological advancements and industry demands. Intel’s focus on students with two-year engineering degrees also shows the potential for higher education to offer pathways to well-paying jobs without a traditional four-year degree. The initiative promotes the notion of education adapting swiftly to cater to the evolving needs of the labor market, which will likely be important in the future job landscape.
