National Institute for Industry and Career Advancement™ Announces Launch of Semiconductor Industry Network of Community Colleges

Robust network of community colleges collaborate with Institute to enhance education and opportunity in semiconductor manufacturing

HANOVER, Md., Aug. 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Institute for Industry and Career Advancement™ (NIICA), formerly the National Institute for Innovation and Technology, in partnership with leading community colleges nationwide, has unveiled its Semiconductor Industry Network of Community Colleges (SINC). This platform strengthens the connection between education and career opportunities in fast-growing semiconductor and advanced manufacturing related industries.

NIICA is the nation's leader in the semiconductor talent pipeline development and U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL) national Intermediary responsible for establishing and expanding Registered Apprenticeships (RAs) throughout semiconductor and nanotechnology-related industry supply chains.

SINC serves as a comprehensive network of colleges that are able to provide Related Technical Instruction (RTI) to support RAs as well as specialized educational programs to support careers in the semiconductor industry and more broadly, advanced manufacturing. Through the support of these colleges, high school graduates, returning service members, and adults from all walks of life will have access to training and education needed to advance careers in what are high-value industries.

Curriculum is aligned with job requirements through NIICA's National Talent Hub (NTH), the nation's only truly dynamic, detailed, competency based system that reflects the ever-changing needs in tech related industries and advanced manufacturing. Through the NTH, job requirements, educational program curriculum, and individual skills profiles are compared, ensuring that courses meet both employer and individual needs. The NTH's Comprehensive Competency Standards Database was developed over several years with industry input, providing the foundation of relevant competencies required to succeed in tech and advanced manufacturing careers. NIICA also developed the nation's first Semiconductor Competency Standard, which is also housed within the Talent Hub.

"The Micro Nano Technology Education Center (MNT-EC) is focused on supporting semiconductor and nanotechnology employers and individuals looking to pursue careers in related industries. By aligning course curriculum through the National Talent Hub and being part of the SINC network, we are able to increase the value proposition for job seekers and employers by providing Related Technical Instruction aligned with industry requirements to support competency-based Registered Apprenticeships, ensuring credit for internship opportunities and supporting career advancement," said Dr. Jared Ashcroft, Center Director, MNT-EC and Professor at Pasadena City College. "Many of our colleges throughout the nation are part of SINC and we are working with NIICA to expand the network as a key resource in helping to develop the nation's talent pipeline for these critical industries."

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