OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. — Schools, colleges, workforce organizations and other education partners across Florida are being invited to apply for funding to create or expand training programs that prepare students and workers for careers in the semiconductor industry.
The U.S. National Science Foundation Florida Semiconductor Engine and the Florida Semiconductor Institute are accepting proposals from eligible organizations throughout the Engine’s 23-county service area.
The application period opened Sept. 1, and proposals must be submitted by Oct. 16.
The initiative will support industry-informed programs offering hands-on training, new academic pathways, student recruitment, internships and other work-based learning opportunities. Applicants must identify the workforce level and audience their proposed project would serve.
Awards will be structured as contracts lasting up to 12 months. Individual projects may receive up to $100,000, while partner projects may receive as much as $175,000.
“This RFP is an invitation for education partners to become active builders of Florida’s semiconductor ecosystem,” Florida Semiconductor Engine CEO Dr. Ronald F. Piccolo said. “By connecting classrooms directly to industry needs, through hands-on training, internships and applied learning, we’re not just preparing students for jobs; we’re strengthening the talent pipeline that will sustain semiconductor innovation in this state for decades to come.”
Dr. Jack Judy, deputy director of workforce development for the Florida Semiconductor Institute, said building a strong talent pipeline will require innovative programs and collaboration among education and industry partners.
The Florida Semiconductor Institute coordinates semiconductor research, development and workforce initiatives across the state. Its areas of focus include emerging materials, chip design, process development, microsystems, advanced packaging and cybersecurity.
The Florida Semiconductor Engine is working to strengthen the nation’s semiconductor industry through collaborative research, workforce development and regional economic growth.
Complete proposal requirements and application information are available at SemiconductorEngine.org.
