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Semiconductor Degree & Training Programs
Connecting tomorrow's innovators to careers.
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In a July 2023 report, the Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA) projected that the nation’s semiconductor workforce talent recruitment needs will grow 33 percent (115,000 jobs) by 2030. They also warned that 58 percent of those new jobs risk going unfilled due to a lack of properly trained and educated candidates.
The Florida Semiconductor Engine is working to close that gap. We are creating a robust statewide educational ecosystem that prepares students and working professionals alike for a career in this high-growth industry. From introducing K-12 students to the idea of semiconductors to recruiting PhDs to conduct groundbreaking research, we’re building a talent pipeline that will turn Florida into a hotbed for high-tech companies and the high-paying jobs they offer.
In partnership with the Engine and Florida Semiconductor Institute, the Florida Advanced Technical Education center offers paid internships for students to work at semiconductor-related companies. This program will allow university, state college, technical college, and even high school students from across the state to participate in paid internships for up to 12 weeks. For more information on how to apply for internships or if your company is interested in participating in the program, please contact Ernie Friend at FLATE at Ernie.Friend@flate.org.

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Degree Programs

Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
Embry-Riddle
The Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering provides hands-on experience in engineering through systems thinking, circuit theory and control systems.
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Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology
Embry-Riddle
The Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology program at Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University leaves its graduates with deeper problem-solving skills, design techniques and engineering judgment, as well as fundamental industry knowledge and research experience. Program faculty members have extensive backgrounds in engineering, technology and related disciplines, and non-technical core courses are taught by subject matter experts in their corresponding disciplines.
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Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
Embry-Riddle
The Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering at Embry‑Riddle prepares graduates for a wide variety of engineering careers in fields such as aerospace, robotics, energy, automotive, biomedical and manufacturing.
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Master of Science in Electrical & Computer Engineering
Embry-Riddle
The Master of Science in Electrical & Computer Engineering allows students to gain technical proficiency and the ability to execute systems-level design, preparing them for advanced careers in industries where increasing reliance on systems-level design has created a high demand for electrical, computer, software and systems engineers.
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Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering
Embry-Riddle
Featuring specialized labs and facilities, this program prepares students to design and implement mechanical systems to meet the needs of a wide range of industries.
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Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering & Computer Science
Embry-Riddle
Mentored by expert faculty, candidates in this program build knowledge, practical skills and research expertise needed for careers in academia or a range of industries. As Ph.D. candidates, students will gain practical experiences in cutting-edge facilities and labs, such as the Next-Generation Advanced Research (NEAR) Lab, Cybersecurity Engineering Lab, Radar and Microwaves Lab, and Intelligent Systems Lab.
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Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering
Embry-Riddle
Housed in the Department of Mechanical Engineering of the College of Engineering, the Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering program is research oriented and will prepare graduates for careers in research and development in the corporate, government, or academic arenas.
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Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
Florida Tech
As an academic discipline, it focuses on the analysis, design, fabrication, testing and installation of systems—machines, engines, products and technologies.
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Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
Florida Tech
A versatile field covering components as small as a microchip and systems as vast as a major metropolitan power grid.
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Master of Science in Electrical Engineering
Florida Tech
The master’s in electrical engineering program prepares graduates to meet the technological challenges of the 21st century. Electrical and computer engineering graduates are sought by every major industry in the economy from aerospace, automotive, medical and nuclear companies to electronic, computer, power and communications organizations.
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Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering
Florida Tech
The learning experience includes system/system design, manufacturing and testing, computational fluid dynamics and simulation, and research and development of complex systems. The university is surrounded by thriving organizations such as NASA/Kennedy Space Center, Patrick Air Force Base, Boeing, Northrop Grumman, Embraer, GE, Harris, and Piper Aircraft, who provide internship and employment opportunities.
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Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering
Florida Tech
PhD in electrical engineering students find a culture of innovation at Florida Tech, with an opportunity to delve into research topics that best align with their particular area of specialization. The second largest engineering program at the university, electrical engineering doctoral students find themselves in an attractive position for employment with Florida Tech's location among one of the largest high-tech workforces in the nation.
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Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering
Florida Tech
Five areas of specialization are offered to students in the mechanical engineering PhD program: automotive engineering; dynamic systems: robotics and controls; hydrogen and fuel cell technology; solid mechanics and materials; or thermal fluid sciences. Prior to beginning the program, candidates map out their own course of study with a faculty mentor whose professional field is aligned to the student's career goals and interests.
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Associate Degree, Engineering Technology
Santa Fe College
This 60-credit program prepares students for engineering/manufacturing technology support positions dealing with PLCs, automation and control systems in high-tech production, manufacturing, production/inventory control, instrumentation, hydraulics, pneumatics, and semiconductors.
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Associate in Science, Computer Programming, and Analysis
Seminole State College
Students in this program will learn skills in computer technology and IT design and building.
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Associate in Arts, Photonic Science, and Engineering
Seminole State College
This program allows students to develop light-dependent technologies for the semiconductor industry.
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Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology
Seminole State College
This degree will give students the skills to design infrastructures and systems with the support of local construction leaders.
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Associate of Science, Engineering Technology
St. Petersburg College
This comprehensive degree program was developed in part by the Florida Advanced Technological Education (FLATE) Center to give manufacturers and advanced technology industries qualified, highly skilled workers. The program offers four sub-plans including Advanced Manufacturing and Electronics.
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Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
University of Central Florida
This degree program prepares students to innovate, design and maintain electrical devices and systems.
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Master of Science in Nanotechnology
University of Central Florida
This degree program will prepare students for industries that include product development and commercialization in nanotechnology research.
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Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
University of South Florida
The program offers study in all areas fundamental to electrical engineering and the electrical sciences - circuit analysis and design, electronics, communications, electromagnetics, controls, solid state, system analysis, MEMS, bioelectrical devices, and power engineering.
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Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
University of South Florida
Mechanical engineering is a discipline that applies the principles of physics and materials science for analysis, design, manufacturing, and maintenance of mechanical systems. It is the branch of engineering that involves the production and usage of heat and mechanical power for the design, production, and operation of machines and tools. It is one of the oldest and broadest engineering disciplines.
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Master of Science in Electrical Engineering
University of South Florida
The department research areas are supported by state of the art facilities for nano/micro fabrication, metrology and characterization, as well as industry-standard computer-aided-design and simulation software. We also emphasize the professional development of students through high-quality scholarly publications, presentations at international conferences, and participation in grant proposal development.
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Master of Science in Materials Science and Engineering
University of South Florida
Materials science applies the fundamental principles of physics and chemistry to engineering materials, with a focus on the interrelationship between material structure, their properties, and the means by which they are processed. Mse impacts multiple facets of our economy, such as aerospace, electronics, transportation, communication, construction, recreation, entertainment, environment and energy.
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Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering
University of South Florida
Materials science applies the fundamental principles of physics and chemistry to engineering materials, with a focus on the interrelationship between material structure, their properties, and the means by which they are processed. Mse impacts multiple facets of our economy, such as aerospace, electronics, transportation, communication, construction, recreation, entertainment, environment and energy.
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Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering
University of South Florida
The dept. Research areas are supported by state-of-the-art facilities for nano/micro fabrication, metrology and characterization, as well as industry-standard computer-aided-design and simulation software. We also emphasize the professional development of students through high-quality scholarly publications, presentations at international conferences, and participation in grant proposal development.
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Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering
University of South Florida
Areas of research include robotics, biomedical and tissue engineering, nanomaterials and nanomanufacturing, micro electromechanical systems, biosensors and biofluids, clean energy technologies, compliant mechanisms, rehabilitation engineering, system dynamics and vibrations, composite materials, and sustainable designs.
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Associate in Science, Semiconductor Engineering Technology
Valencia College
This degree program is designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in the semiconductor industry. It also provides the opportunity for individuals currently working in the field to upgrade skills and knowledge for career advancement. The program will soon offer an A.S. to B.S. Track (expected launch Fall 2027), which provides students the opportunity to complete the bachelor’s degree in Semiconductor Engineering Technology at the University of Central Florida.
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Certification and Training Programs
Advanced Manufacturing and Production Technology
Lake Technical College
Students learn automation, robotics, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), electronics, and sensors—all transferable skills to the growing semiconductor and manufacturing sectors. They will also train in quality assurance/control, production processes, robotics, and automation and learn industry fundamentals in mechanisms, electrical control systems, and fluid power.
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Mechatronics Technology
Orange Technical College
Mechatronics is a multidisciplinary field of engineering designed to provide graduates with a high-tech skill set and knowledge in electronic, mechanical systems, fluid power/pneumatic systems, electrical, Program Logic Controller (PLC) programming, and repair of PLC / computer controlled, automated machines and robotic systems. Students will take the following certification exams: Certified Production Technician – Manufacturing Skill Standards Council and Industrial Technology Maintenance – National Institute for Metalworking Skills.
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Mechatronics
Seminole State College
This program assists students in learning robotics technology for semiconductor manufacturing. Students who earn the 30-hour certificate “will learn the skills to troubleshoot, maintain, and repair complex mechanical equipment.”
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Automation
Seminole State College
This certificate program gives students the skills to monitor, maintain, and repair complex systems for the manufacturing industry.
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Engineering Technology
St. Petersburg College
This program was developed to give manufacturers and advanced technology industries the qualified, highly skilled workers they need. Students will learn at the Collaborative Center for Emerging Technologies on the Clearwater Campus, which offers a state-of-the-art open manufacturing training facility where they can practice hands-on skills for emerging and advanced manufacturing technologies.
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Mechatronics: Soldering Certification
St. Petersburg College
The Soldering IPC-A-610 CIS Certification and Soldering IPC J-STD-001 CIS certification programs provide individuals with valuable, portable credentials that recognize their advanced knowledge and understanding of the Acceptability of Electronic Assemblies. Certification is required throughout the medical, aerospace and military manufacturing industry as a condition of employment.
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Semiconductor Engineering and Manufacturing Instruction Undergraduate Certificate
University of Central Florida
This new program is part of $3.1 million in recurring investment into UCF’s semiconductor manufacturing program capabilities. New faculty are being hired from across the country, new equipment is being secured, and the program itself will include year-round, on-campus cleanroom co-op positions in partnership with the local industry.
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Technology Management Graduate Certificate
University of South Florida
Fully online or on campus | this certificate program teaches students how to combine qualitative approaches with quantitative methods resulting in a strengthening of engineering credentials and the development of managerial competency.
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Precision Optics, Photonics, and Fiber Optics
Valencia College
This program trains students in optics fabrication, optical assembly, photonics, and fiber optics. The program was designed with industry input, including partnerships from Lockheed Martin, LightPath, Ocean Insights, Critical Frequency, Jenoptik, Chronosphotonics, and other members of the Florida Photonics Cluster.
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Workforce Development Partners
CareerSource Brevard Flagler Volusia
CareerSource Brevard Flagler Volusia combines the power of the region’s job creators with the power of trained and experienced talent to create life-enhancing economic opportunities for individuals, businesses, and communities.
CareerSource Central Florida
CareerSource Central Florida helps with everything from career exploration and professional development to training opportunities and helping people find a job or internship that meets their goals.
Florida Advanced Technological Educational Center (FLATE)
Florida Advanced Technological Educational Center (FLATE), a National Science Foundation Center of Excellence in high-technology manufacturing, is the go-to organization for manufacturing and advanced technical education, best practices and resources supporting Florida’s highly skilled manufacturing workforce.
Orlando Economic Partnership
Orlando Economic Partnership is an economic and community development organization that works to advance Broad-based Prosperity®.
UF Florida Semiconductor Institute (FSI)
UF Florida Semiconductor Institute (FSI) serves as the statewide hub for research, development, and workforce initiatives in semiconductor technologies.
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Additional Resources
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Anita: At Home in a Promising New Role
After overcoming a period of homelessness to return to school and earn her GED, Anita completed the Mechatronics program at Valencia College. Her training landed her a Maintenance and Control Technician position at the theme parks and an exciting invitation from Valencia–to come teach the program she graduated from. There, she met a SkyWater Technology employee who referred Anita for a paid internship which eventually led to a full-time position as an Equipment Maintenance Technician.
