Arizona State University is launching a new semiconductor technician training program in collaboration with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, (TSMC Arizona), to help meet growing demand for skilled manufacturing workers. As TSMC Arizona ramps up production and advances its expansion plans in Arizona, the need for trained technicians is vital.
One critical role in fabrication facility operations is that of equipment technicians with responsibility for maintenance activities on the world’s most cutting-edge semiconductor machinery. So, the new ASU Foundations for Equipment Technician Program is designed to prepare participants for semiconductor equipment technician roles in weeks or months rather than years.
The program, offered at no cost to participants, launches as TSMC continues expanding its Arizona manufacturing operations. The company expects to fill thousands of technician roles (equipment, facilities, process and manufacturing) to support its first three fabs. By the end of this year alone, TSMC Arizona plans to hire more than 100 equipment technicians.
To make training more accessible, the program offers three flexible formats: a five-week, Monday-through-Friday accelerator; a 16-week, Monday-through-Thursday intensive; and an 18-week Saturday-only option. This structure allows participants to choose a schedule that fits their lives, whether they’re working full-time, transitioning careers or just starting in the field.
Participants who complete the training and meet program requirements will be guaranteed an interview with TSMC and also gain industry-recognized credentials that can help them pursue opportunities with other companies and employers across the semiconductor sector.
“This is an opportunity for individuals who are looking to try something new or connect more directly with an industry that’s growing rapidly in the Valley,” says Adam Eklund, senior program manager for the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering at ASU. “There are a ton of roles that need to be filled — and they need them fast.”
“TSMC Arizona is deeply committed to building a strong and sustainable semiconductor workforce here in Arizona, and that starts with investing in local programs that create meaningful pathways into our industry,” says Rose Castanares, president of TSMC Arizona. “Technicians play a vital role in fab operations and are essential to the precision and reliability required in advanced semiconductor manufacturing.”
“Developing skilled, local talent is critical not only to our long-term growth, but also for strengthening America’s semiconductor ecosystem,” says Castanares. “We greatly value our partnership with Arizona State University and appreciate its leadership in preparing the next generation of talent.”
The new training program is intended to prepare participants specifically for equipment technician roles, a critical position at semiconductor fabrication facilities, also known as fabs. These technicians are responsible for maintaining and troubleshooting the highly specialized systems that keep chip production running around the clock.
Unlike traditional academic pathways, the program prioritizes job readiness and expedited entry into the workforce.
“Some programs provide credentials, but don’t necessarily connect you directly to employment opportunities,” Eklund says. “This one is unique in that it does both.”
While the guaranteed TSMC interview is a central benefit, the training also equips learners with technical skills that can open doors for similar roles across Arizona’s broader semiconductor industry. That wider career value is part of what makes the program relevant to people at different career stages.
The ASU Foundations for Equipment Technician Program is designed to make semiconductor workforce training more accessible to people who may not have previously considered a career in the industry.
Binil Starly, school director and manufacturing engineering professor in the School of Manufacturing Systems and Networks, part of the Fulton Schools, says alternative workforce pathways are essential to keep pace with the industry’s needs.
“Semiconductor manufacturing is expanding rapidly, and existing education pipelines cannot meet demand at the required speed,” Starly says. “With scale, industry alignment and access to advanced infrastructure, ASU can deliver workforce programs quickly.”
Participants will train in environments designed to mirror real semiconductor fabs. Through ASU’s access to labs and cleanroom facilities across the Phoenix metro area, learners will gain exposure to the tools, systems and safety protocols used in industry.
The program emphasizes aptitude and motivation over prior credentials, making it an attractive option for career changers, underemployed individuals and those seeking a faster path into hands-on technical work without the commitment of a four-year degree.
