Bloomington, Indiana – Ivy Tech Community College Bloomington is offering a unique hands-on opportunity this summer for high school students and adults interested in exploring a career in the fast-growing world of microelectronics. The college will host two free Introduction to Semiconductors workshops in July, designed to give participants a basic understanding of the field and open the door to potential job paths in the local semiconductor manufacturing industry.
The program includes two sessions — one tailored for high school students, scheduled for July 14 through July 18, and another for adult learners, running July 21 through July 25. Applications for both sessions are currently open and being accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
According to Michael Waterford, Microelectronics and Department of Defense Employer Liaison at Ivy Tech Bloomington, the workshops are built to be interactive and beginner-friendly. “Participants will get hands-on experiences that pave the way for careers in the growing field of semiconductor manufacturing,” Waterford said. “The workshops offer an entry-level overview for anyone who may be exploring career pathways or wanting to make a career change.”
Each day of the program features immersive activities and introductory lessons in essential microelectronics skills. Participants will get experience with circuit board assembly, soldering, robotics, and automation programming, along with cleanroom simulations to mimic real-world industry environments. Sessions will also include talks from local industry leaders, representatives from area companies, and hiring managers who can provide insight into job opportunities and career pathways in the field.
The workshops will take place at the Indiana Center for the Life Sciences, located at 501 N. Profile Parkway in Bloomington. Ivy Tech will provide lunch to all attendees, making the sessions not only informative but also fully accessible.
The demand for skilled workers in the semiconductor industry is on the rise both nationally and locally, as the U.S. expands its domestic microchip production capabilities. Ivy Tech’s summer program is part of a larger statewide initiative to train the next generation of workers in this critical sector. For many, this workshop can serve as a stepping stone to more advanced education or immediate employment opportunities in technology and manufacturing.
Ivy Tech Bloomington currently offers over 40 career-focused programs, including several in technology and advanced manufacturing. For those interested in short-term job training, the college also provides free, fast-track options throughout the year.
To sign up for the summer semiconductors workshops, visit: https://link.ivytech.edu/semiconsummer.
For more information on programs offered by Ivy Tech Bloomington, go to ivytech.edu/bloomington, call 812-330-6013, or email [email protected].
