Yesterday, eleven adult learners were recognized at a graduation ceremony for completing the inaugural Semiconductor Technician Bootcamp in partnership with Advance 2 Apprenticeship® and Onondaga Community College. The intensive 12-week direct-entry program prepared participants for careers in advanced manufacturing through a combination of classroom instruction, hands-on technical training, and career readiness development.
The Semiconductor Technician Bootcamp ran from February 23rd through May 15th and was designed to equip participants with industry-aligned skills and validated technical competencies needed for entry-level technician roles in semiconductor and advanced manufacturing environments.
Developed through a collaborative, industry-informed process, the program incorporated input from regional manufacturers and semiconductor companies across New York State, including Micron Technology, GlobalFoundries, Wolfspeed, onsemi, Belden, INFICON, and Tessy Plastics.
Participants completed hands-on modules covering foundational manufacturing and semiconductor-related skills, including motors and encoders, hydraulics and pneumatics, robotics, and cleanroom simulation training in Onondaga Community College’s Micron Cleanroom Simulation Lab. Graduates also participated in employer tours, mock interviews, resume development, and guaranteed job interviews with regional employers.
“The combination of technical training and professional development has created a powerful pathway for students entering advanced manufacturing,” said Professor Dave Bzdak, Faculty Lead for the Semiconductor Bootcamp at Onondaga Community College. “We’ve seen tremendous growth in student confidence, collaboration, and technical ability throughout the program.”
The bootcamp served participants from a wide range of professional and educational backgrounds, united by a shared goal of building careers in a rapidly growing industry.
“When I saw this program, I was very excited,” said graduate Cyrille Kayembe Asagnion. “I’ve learned a lot. The program has been very helpful.”
Program graduate Aaron Unger said the program offered an opportunity to transition into a field with long-term growth potential. “With the way the world is headed with AI and semiconductors, I thought it would be a good idea to get involved in this type of work,” Unger said. “Everyone’s been very supportive.”
Through the Advance 2 Apprenticeship® program model, participants received supportive services designed to reduce barriers and help set them up for success both during the program and as they transition into employment. Program benefits included transportation and childcare assistance, help with clothing and work supplies, milestone incentives, OSHA 10 certification, job-readiness workshops, and guaranteed interviews with up to four companies.
“Advance 2 Apprenticeship® is proud to serve as a foundational component of the inaugural Semiconductor Technician Bootcamp.” said Colleen Blagg, Director of Pre-Apprenticeship at MACNY, The Manufacturers Association. “By combining supportive services with hands-on semiconductor training provided through our partnership with Onondaga Community College, this program created a strong pathway for participants to build in-demand skills, gain confidence, and connect directly with career opportunities in a growing industry.”
The Semiconductor Technician Bootcamp also creates a built-in education pathway for participants. Graduates are eligible to receive three credits toward OCC’s Electromechanical Technology certificate or degree program.
The program is supported by funding from the State University of New York Transformation Fund, the SUNY Future of Work Center CNY, Empire State Development, the Maritime Industrial Base (MIB), and the NSF Energy Storage Engine in Upstate New York.