News Release: NY CREATES and Raytheon Unveil Collaborative Semiconductor Workforce Training Initiative

NY CREATES and Raytheon Unveil Collaborative Semiconductor Workforce Training Initiative

For Immediate Release: Tuesday, May 28, 2024

Contact:
Steve Ference |sf*******@ny********.org | +1 (518) 424-602

Partnership Prepares High-Tech Workforce for the Future with In-Demand Engineering Skill

Albany, N.Y. – The New York Center for Research, Economic Advancement, Technology, Engineering, and Science (NY CREATES), in collaboration with Raytheon, an RTX business, announced the deployment of the NY CREATES/Raytheon Workforce Training Program. This partnered instructional program offers participants an 80-hour course focusing on engineering skills, which are essential for success in today’s semiconductor industry. Participants will be immersed in areas of advanced training, including mechanical assembly, pneumatics operation, basic electronics components, and sensor technologies. Participants’ completion of this program signifies their advanced engineering competency and the value they can bring to the semiconductor manufacturing industry, which has been growing rapidly in New York State and across the nation.

“We look forward to this collaboration with Raytheon to help prepare participants for rewarding microelectronics careers. This valuable educational initiative exemplifies NY CREATES’ commitment to workforce development and the importance we place on such efforts to advance the semiconductor industry,” said Dave Anderson, NY CREATES President. “With our Albany NanoTech Complex as the launchpad, we are eager to work with our growing list of high-tech industry, academic, and government partners to provide in-depth, hands-on training that can help innovation-focused workers thrive and companies grow.”

“Raytheon’s commitment to innovation and talent have never been higher,” said Colin Whelan, president of Advanced Technology at Raytheon. “The knowledge and skill advancement our engineers gain through the Workforce Training Program will enable Raytheon to continue to lead the development and delivery of vital, cutting-edge semiconductor technology.”

The inaugural round of participant training included Raytheon employees who successfully completed the two-week program, with plans for additional participants to enroll in the coming months.

“The NY CREATES/Raytheon Workforce Training Program is designed to train participants with the specialized skills required to excel in semiconductor manufacturing,” said Dr. Robert Geer, NY CREATES Vice President of Education & Workforce Development. “Our partnership with Raytheon not only validates the quality of our training content, but it also demonstrates our pivotal role in shaping the future of the semiconductor industry.”

This training program builds upon the strong foundation established by Northeast Advanced Technological Education Center (NEATEC) workforce development efforts. NEATEC is supported by the National Science Foundation and centered at NY CREATES’ Albany NanoTech Complex. NEATEC education and training content has been used at NY CREATES to train more than 700 technicians and engineers employed in the U.S. semiconductor industry. This content is also in use in colleges and university partners in New York State and Arizona to support innovation-focused skills building for students entering the broader nanotechnology and microelectronics industries.

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About NY CREATES

NY CREATES serves as a lab-to-fab bridge for advanced electronics, fostering public-private and industry-academic partnerships for technology development and innovation. NY CREATES attracts and leads industry-connected innovation and commercialization projects that secure significant investment, advance R&D in emerging technologies, and generate the jobs of tomorrow. NY CREATES runs some of the most advanced facilities in the world, boasts more than 2,700 industry experts and faculty, and manages public and private investments of more than $20 billion—placing it at the global epicenter of high-tech innovation and commercialization. Learn more at www.ny-creates.org.  

About Raytheon

Raytheon, an RTX business, is a leading provider of defense solutions to help the U.S. government, our allies and partners defend their national sovereignty and ensure their security. For more than 100 years, Raytheon has developed new technologies and enhanced existing capabilities in integrated air and missile defense, smart weapons, missiles, advanced sensors and radars, interceptors, space-based systems, hypersonics and missile defense across land, air, sea and space.

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News Coverage:

Times Union: NY CREATES, Raytheon partner on chipmaking training

Semiconductor Digest: NY CREATES and Raytheon Unveil Collaborative Semiconductor Workforce Training Initiative

News Release: NY CREATES Welcomes Return of Dr. Douglas Grose as Board of Directors Chair

NY CREATES Welcomes Return of Dr. Douglas Grose as Board of Directors Chair

For Immediate Release: Monday, May 6, 2024
Contact: Steve Ference | sf*******@ny********.org | +1 (518) 424-6029

Recognized Semiconductor Industry Leader Bolsters NY CREATES’  Innovation, Industry Partnerships, and Workforce Development Efforts

Albany, N.Y. – The New York Center for Research, Economic Advancement, Technology, Engineering, and Science (NY CREATES) announced the return of Dr. Douglas A. Grose as the non-profit organization’s appointed Board Chair. Dr. Grose brings a wealth of experience and leadership to this position, having previously served as NY CREATES’ President and board chairman until 2021.

Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Dr. Grose is a pillar of the semiconductor industry, with unparalleled credentials and a highly-respected record of leadership and integrity. He is an excellent partner, and we are excited that he is returning to NY CREATES as Board Chair, where his guidance and expertise will help to further grow New York State’s dynamic innovation economy.”

“NY CREATES is a key driver of semiconductor-based R&D, industry collaboration, workforce development, and high-tech economic advancement not only for New York State, but also for our nation at a time when historic CHIPS Act investments will reestablish America’s technological leadership. I am thrilled to return to NY CREATES as Board Chair to further support this organization’s upward trajectory and ability to address global chip-centered challenges,” said Dr. Douglas Grose. “On behalf of the NY CREATES board, I also extend my gratitude to Kristin Proud for her outstanding dedication to this organization while acting as its interim board chair, and I welcome her continued contributions to the board of directors.”

Dr. Grose’s return to NY CREATES follows his support of the American Semiconductor Innovation Coalition (ASIC) during the last two years.

“We are delighted to welcome Dr. Grose back to NY CREATES as our returning Board Chair,” said Dave Anderson, President of NY CREATES. “His extensive industry expertise and proven leadership will be instrumental in further guiding our organization as we engage in our next phase of growth and establish North America’s only non-profit-led, public-private High NA EUV Lithography Center where sub-2 nanometer computer chip components will be produced. This will enable NY CREATES to continue to innovate, train the 21st century workforce, and create rewarding high-tech careers.”

The Northeast Region of the U.S., with New York State as a semiconductor hub, has a strong history of public-private partnerships and is well positioned to support the federal government’s commitment to semiconductor R&D, including the CHIPS Act. The centerpiece of the region’s national strategy is NY CREATES’ Albany NanoTech Complex, the most advanced, non-profit owned 300mm semiconductor R&D facility in North America and one of the most advanced sites in the world. At the site, globally recognized semiconductor industry leaders are developing the materials, technologies, and processes for next-gen chips which will be used in everyday applications in approximately five to seven years.

Dr. Grose’s distinguished career in the semiconductor industry included more than 20 years at IBM before he became the Senior Vice President of Technology Development, Manufacturing, and Supply Chain at Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), later helping to direct the formation of GlobalFoundries, where he served from 2009 to 2011 as CEO.

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About NY CREATES

NY CREATES serves as a lab-to-fab bridge for advanced electronics, fostering public-private and industry-academic partnerships for technology development and innovation. NY CREATES attracts and leads industry-connected innovation and commercialization projects that secure significant investment, advance R&D in emerging technologies, and generate the jobs of tomorrow. NY CREATES runs some of the most advanced facilities in the world, boasts more than 2,700 industry experts and faculty, and manages public and private investments of more than $20 billion—placing it at the global epicenter of high-tech innovation and commercialization. Learn more at www.ny-creates.org.

News Coverage

Times Union: After two years, Doug Grose back as NY CREATES board chair

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NY CREATES Veteran Semiconductor Training & Experience Program (Vet S.T.E.P)

While you may know NY CREATES is dedicated to fostering workforce development in the semiconductor industry, you may not know how we’re also supporting our military servicemembers. That’s why we’re excited to shine a spotlight on our Veteran Semiconductor Training & Experience Program (Vet S.T.E.P.), an initiative designed to equip soon-to-be veterans with valuable skills in the semiconductor technology.

Vet S.T.E.P. is a recognized Department of Defense SkillBridge program and the United States Army Career Skills Program, funded by the National Science Foundation (N.S.F.), and hosted by NY CREATES to prepare transitioning service members for technician careers in the semiconductor ecosystem (fabs, equipment and/or material suppliers). This 10-week program consists of a two-week, hands-on training, followed by an 8-week internship with one of our company partners.

Empowering Success in Semiconductor Technology

Transitioning from military service to civilian life can be challenging. At NY CREATES, we provide program participants the tools they need to thrive in the high-demand semiconductor workforce. The Vet S.T.E.P. program offers hands-on training, mentorship, and industry connections, ensuring that participants are equipped with technical knowledge and supported throughout their transition. 

VET S.T.E.P. classroom at the Albany NanoTech Complex

Targeted Training

Our program provides veterans with hands-on training in semiconductor technology, allowing them to develop practical skills that are highly sought after in the industry. For instance, participants will gain a deep understanding of advanced manufacturing practices, essential electronics operations, mechatronics troubleshooting, and pneumatics technology, which are necessary for roles such as semiconductor process engineer or equipment technician.

Impactful Mentorship

Each servicemember learns directly from industry experts, typically experienced professionals who provide guidance, support, and valuable insights throughout the program. Our mentors are committed to helping the class participants navigate the complexities of the semiconductor industry, explain specific engineering terminology, and offer advice on career development, networking, and professional growth. Mentorship plays a crucial role in the success of our program.

Industry Connections

In addition to hands-on training and mentorship, the Vet S.T.E.P. program helps transitioning servicemembers build connections within the semiconductor industry. Through this program, participants can interact with partnered companies and potential future employers. These connections enhance the participants’ job prospects and foster a strong sense of community and belonging within the industry, making them feel part of something bigger.

Fostering Personal Growth and Industry Advancement

At NY CREATES, investing in our transitioning servicemembers benefits them individually and contributes to the advancement of the semiconductor industry. By equipping them with valuable skills and enabling their transition into the workforce, we’re not just filling critical talent gaps and driving innovation in semiconductor technology, but we are also fostering personal growth and career transformation.

VET S.T.E.P. students doing electrical work at Albany NanoTech Complex

Supporting Our Transitioning Military Servicemembers and Veterans

The Vet S.T.E.P. program at NY CREATES is more than just a training initiative—it’s a commitment to empowering transitioning military servicemembers and strengthening workforce development in the semiconductor industry. This program is a memorable experience and a meaningful difference for those who have served our country and ensured a brighter future for the semiconductor industry.

Are you a member of the military or veteran interested in this program? Learn how you can participate by contacting Vet S.T.E.P Program Manager, Dan Cochran, dc******@ny********.org

Learn more about the program here: https://ny-creates.org/vetstep

Stay tuned for more updates and success stories from the Vet S.T.E.P. program at NY CREATES.

Recent news:

Governor Hochul News Release: “Governor Hochul Announces Launch of $10 Million Mohawk Valley Empowers Grant Program to Address Regional Challenges to Workforce Participation.”

Quad-C building

Read Governor Hochul’s Press Release Here

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the launch of Mohawk Valley Empowers, a three-year, $10 million initiative designed to strengthen the Mohawk Valley’s regional workforce ecosystem. This new program prioritizes empowering people by recognizing the need to increase workforce participation, expand wraparound services, and redefine career readiness. Mohawk Valley Empowers resulted from extensive collaboration across six counties, nine colleges and BOCES, industry experts and 22 non-profit partners. Through in-depth data analysis and stakeholder engagement, Mohawk Valley Empowers identified actionable solutions to address the core challenges hindering workforce participation in the region. Potential applicants seeking funding must submit a Consolidated Funding Application, which will be accepted through Friday, June 28.

“The Mohawk Valley is becoming a destination for semiconductor manufacturing and research, and this initiative will empower New Yorkers to take part in the transformative economic potential and future that lies ahead – both in this industry and beyond,” Governor Hochul said. “Our strategic partnerships with educational and industry stakeholders will help to develop a robust talent pipeline, create accessible pathways to jobs, and make the Mohawk Valley a place for New Yorkers to build their careers.”

Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado, Chair of the Regional Economic Development Councils said, “The cornerstone of our regional economic development process is collaborative, community-led projects that will build a stronger future for New Yorkers statewide. Mohawk Valley Empowers showcases the importance of bringing our regional workforce together to create the job trainings and employment opportunities needed to build a 21st century economy.”

Since 2011, the Mohawk Valley’s workforce participation rate has remained relatively flat at less than 60 percent. Additionally, 74 percent of the region’s current working-aged population do not have bachelor’s degrees. Mohawk Valley Empowers will support projects that aim to go beyond skills training by empowering individuals through culturally sensitive and community-driven approaches to meet the demands of the growing tourism, agribusiness, and STEM sectors while creating pathways for families to rise out of poverty. Innovative, catalytic projects and programs that address fundamental barriers to employment, advance professional skills development, empower individuals, and promote workplace participation are encouraged. Proposals will be prioritized based on their ability to meet people where they are on their career journeys, dismantle structural inequities within the workforce pipeline, and consider the holistic needs of participants. Program guidelines, including a full list of eligible entities, are available here.

Complementing today’s workforce development initiative launch in the Mohawk Valley, Empire State Development has awarded a $4 million capital grant to support SUNY Polytechnic Institute’s $26.5 million Semiconductor Processing to Packaging Research, Education and Training Center in the NY CREATES Quad C building, currently occupied by Semikron Danfoss, to serve as an epicenter for semiconductor research, education and training, with a goal to increase graduates across advanced manufacturing disciplines by 10 percent in the next four years.

The plans for this new facility were announced by Governor Hochul in 2023 as part of a $44 million state investment in SUNY Polytechnic Institute. This new lab and other investments at SUNY Poly will allow this campus to become the State and nation’s premier public polytechnic and continues SUNY Poly’s evolution as a leader in STEM and the health sciences.

Semiconductor and supply chain companies Wolfspeed, Danfoss, Micron, Indium, Marquardt Switches, Menlo Micro and NoMIS Power, along with NY CREATES, will be collaborating with SUNY Poly, as well as Working Solutions – the Workforce Development Board of Utica, Fulton Montgomery Community College, Mohawk Valley Community College, and Onondaga Community College to establish a curriculum with wraparound services for in demand jobs in the industry that includes device processing for power electronics, optoelectronics and clean energy applications as well as their unique packaging needs.

The creation of a single center covering research, education and training capabilities across semiconductor processing to packaging will provide students and the future workforce with both the depth of knowledge as well as breadth to more fully understand the workflow and attention to detail needed to produce these complicated devices. The facility will have approximately 5,000 square feet of cleanroom space and the first floor will have 2 classrooms seating 30 students along with office space for scientists, postdocs, and students. The Center will train both traditional and non-traditional students, training up to 150 students annually.

SUNY Polytechnic Institute President Dr. Winston Soboyejo said, “We are grateful for the investments New York State has been making in SUNY Poly and for the Mohawk Valley Empowers program, which will simultaneously elevate individual lives and the economy of our region. SUNY Poly’s new Semiconductor Processing to Packaging Research, Education, and Training Center will have a transformational impact on the Mohawk Valley, New York State, and beyond. We look forward to working with our partners to meet the workforce needs of the rapidly growing semiconductor industry – and to helping individuals access the education they need to benefit from the opportunities associated with this growth.”

Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Ensuring that New York State has a well-trained and ready workforce is vital to State’s economy and one of the top concerns I hear from companies looking at where to locate their business. Both the Mohawk Valley Empowers initiative and SUNY Poly’s Semiconductor Processing to Packaging Training Center in NY CREATES’ Quad C building builds on Governor Hochul’s efforts to invest in workforce development and grow key industries across New York State. Thanks to the work of our REDCs and partners, we are creating jobs that will make a difference, not only in the region, but throughout the state.”

NY CREATES President Dave Anderson said, “Today’s announcement further builds on Governor Hochul’s steadfast focus on meeting the workforce needs of this fast-growing semiconductor cluster. We are proud that research, education, and career preparation in areas such as device processing, packaging, and testing, will take place at NY CREATES’ Computer Chip Commercialization Center, home to Danfoss, where SUNY Poly students will now be able to gain the skills that translate directly to success in the semiconductor industry. Combined with the Mohawk Valley Empowers Fund, this expansion of the school-to-fab career pipeline is yet another testament to this region’s ability to support the continued growth of the industry across the northeast and the nation, as well as the resulting job opportunities.”

MVREDC Co-Chairs Lawrence T. Gilroy III, President of Gilroy, Kernan & Gilroy, Inc. and SUNY Cobleskill President Dr. Marion Terenzio said, “We know what the Mohawk Valley is made of – and Mohawk Valley Empowers will help the region’s residents become partners in the jobs and growth this funding will support. This initiative will build the workforce required by the many high-growth industries New York State is attracting, and create a success story for our region both now and for the future.”

State Senator Joseph Griffo said, “I am pleased that SUNY Polytechnic Institute will be receiving funding for its Semiconductor Processing and Packaging Research, Education and Training Center and that the collaborative Mohawk Valley Empowers initiative will be launching. This investment in state funding will enhance and support the semiconductor manufacturing industry in the Mohawk Valley while also empowering people and strengthening the workforce in the region.”

Assemblymember Marianne Buttenschon said, “I am pleased in the Governor’s investment in our secondary and higher educational institutions to launch the MV Empowers Fund. This funding includes the key stakeholders to promote workforce development in many key areas of advancement. I look forward to working together with future employees that utilize this opportunity.”

Oneida County Executive Anthony Picente said, “Today’s announcement continues to solidify Oneida County and the Mohawk Valley as the premier hub of the semiconductor and advanced manufacturing industry,” said Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. “The new center at SUNY Poly will be the epicenter of semiconductor processing and packaging research education and training, producing the next generation of advanced manufacturing workforce right here in Oneida County. That workforce will be strengthened through the MV Empowers Fund, that will allow this county and its regional partners to supercharge the local ecosystem. I thank the State of New York for this investment and I applaud SUNY Poly for its vision.”

Additional Media Coverage: 
 
 
 
 

NY CREATES Featured in News Release: Governor Hochul and Majority Leader Schumer Announce Start of Construction for Edwards Vacuum’s $319 Million Semiconductor Supply Chain Facility in Genesee County

Governor Hochul and Majority Leader Schumer Announce Start of Construction for Edwards Vacuum’s $319 Million Semiconductor Supply Chain Facility in Genesee County

 

NY CREATES was recognized in the latest NYS Governor’s press release, as Governor Hochul and Majority Leader Schumer announce the commencement of construction for Edwards Vacuum’s groundbreaking $319 million semiconductor supply chain facility in Genesee County, NY. As a pivotal partner in advancing New York State’s semiconductor ecosystem, NY CREATES celebrates this significant milestone, poised to further bolster the state’s workforce development and economic growth.

 

View Governor Hochul’s Press Release Here

NY CREATES Pres. Dave Anderson’s Statement on Micron’s CHIPS Act Announcement

NY CREATES Pres. Dave Anderson Statement on Micron’s CHIPS Act Announcement

“NY CREATES applauds today’s announcement regarding our partner, Micron, receiving $6.1 billion in CHIPS Act grants to support new fabs, including those to be built in New York State. With such announcements, what we are seeing is a landmark moment in the advancement of semiconductor manufacturing, R&D and innovation-focused workforce development in the U.S. Micron’s expansion in New York is made possible by Governor Hochul’s leadership establishing the region as a semiconductor hub, and by Senate Majority Leader Schumer’s trailblazing U.S. CHIPS Act, which is strategically investing in America’s high-tech future. President Biden’s visit to the site of Micron’s future fabs underscores the significance of this transformative project, and we simultaneously look forward to Micron’s collaboration and involvement with NY CREATES’ recently announced High NA EUV Center. This fast-growing ecosystem is propelling the U.S. into a new technological era and driving economic prosperity.” 

– Dave Anderson

President, NY CREATES

View Micron’s News Release Here

View Governor Hochul’s Press Release Here

Gov. Hochul News Release: $500 Million Capital Investment at NY CREATES’ Albany Nanotech Complex to Jumpstart $10 Billion Partnership


As part of the FY 2025 Budget, Governor Hochul has secured a $500 million capital investment for NY CREATES’ Albany Nanotech Complex to jumpstart a $10 billion partnership and bring a cutting-edge High NA EUV Lithography Center to the Complex. The Governor announced the partnership with IBM, Micron, Applied Materials, Tokyo Electron, and other leaders from the semiconductor industry last year as part of her commitment to establishing a global hub for semiconductor manufacturing in New York. Once completed, this new center will build on other semiconductor-related investments to make New York home to the first publicly owned High NA EUV Lithography Center in North America, support the long-term growth of New York’s tech economy, and create and retain thousands of direct, indirect, and union construction jobs.

Read News Release Here

Spectrum News: Vet S.T.E.P. by NY CREATES aims to help veterans get employment in technology industry

Spectrum News

“The semiconductor industry is hiring veterans. A program called VET S.T.E.P. aims to help veterans get employment in the technology industry, and training is ongoing at NY Creates in upstate New York. 

It’s an exciting time for technology and the semiconductor industry for veterans and active-duty military personnel. Some are working to provide opportunities where these individuals can use the skills and discipline obtained through their military experience. So, funded by the National Science Foundation and hosted by NY Creates, this is a 10-week program with hands-on training at the Albany Nanotech Complex.”

Watch the story here