NEMC launches $1.2M workforce development program

BOSTON - The Northeast Microelectronics Coalition (NEMC) Hub has launched the POWER Program, a $1.2 million initiative to advance education, training programs and workforce development throughout the Northeast.

The POWER Program, also known as the Preparing Our Workforce for Microelectronics Resiliency Program, is funded through the Microelectronics Commons Program and is intended to provide grant funding to a wide range of organizations, including nonprofits, private companies and local governments, to address existing workforce barriers. The grants will support and grow regional partnerships, internship programs, curriculum development and mentor programming.

"The NEMC Hub is building a regional microelectronics ecosystem that is dynamic and prepared to take on new challenges with the launch of this new program," said Massachusetts Economic Development Secretary Eric Paley. "The POWER Program will strengthen the microelectronics workforce at the ground level and provide upcoming professionals with the skills they need to drive new innovation and industry growth."

"The National Network for Microelectronics Education projects over 115,000 new U.S. semiconductor jobs by 2030," said NEMC Hub Director Mark Halfman. "The POWER Program will help address this pressing microelectronics industry need."