Creating Pathways to Semiconductor Careers: Intel Launches SEPP

As the semiconductor industry continues to drive innovation across nearly every aspect of modern life, Intel is investing in the next generation of talent through the launch of the Semiconductor Education Pathways Program (SEPP) — a comprehensive workforce development initiative designed to strengthen education pathways from K-12 through post-secondary education and into semiconductor careers.

SEPP is an Intel-funded program focused on building a stronger, more resilient semiconductor talent pipeline in regions that support Intel's U.S. manufacturing footprint. Through investments in students, educators, institutions and community partners, SEPP helps create opportunities for learners at every stage of the education journey while supporting America's long-term competitiveness in semiconductor manufacturing.

 Building the Workforce of Tomorrow

The semiconductor industry relies on a highly skilled workforce spanning engineering, manufacturing, research, technician roles and emerging technology fields. Meeting future workforce needs requires collaboration across education, industry and government.

SEPP brings together universities, community colleges, K-12 school systems and nonprofit organizations to create meaningful learning experiences, strengthen educational programs and increase awareness of careers in the semiconductor industry.

The program supports five core areas:

• K-12 STEM and Career Technical Education (CTE)
• Student experiential learning opportunities
• Curriculum development
• Faculty development and educator training
• Graduate scholarships and fellowships

By investing across the education continuum, Intel is helping students gain the knowledge, skills and hands-on experiences needed to pursue careers in microelectronics and semiconductor manufacturing.

A Regional Approach to Workforce Development

SEPP investments support programs across Arizona, New Mexico, Ohio and Oregon, states that play important roles in Intel's U.S. operations and the broader semiconductor ecosystem.

The program's regional focus allows Intel to work closely with local educational institutions and community partners to address workforce needs unique to each area while creating scalable models that can benefit the broader industry.

Examples of supported initiatives include:

• Undergraduate research experiences focused on semiconductors and microelectronics
• Faculty training programs in semiconductor manufacturing, artificial intelligence and quantum computing
• Community college transfer and technician pathway programs
• Student design challenges and capstone projects
• Educator externships and industry immersion experiences
• Career-connected learning opportunities for K-12 students

SEPP is one element of Intel's broader higher education portfolio that includes research collaborations and initiatives with U.S. National Science Foundation and the Semiconductor Research Corporation that reach community colleges and universities in over 32 U.S. states.

Intel invests in K-12 education through a robust outreach portfolio that supports national nonprofits, school districts, and local organizations to strengthen learning opportunities for students and educators. More details on education programming can be found in Intel’s latest Corporate Responsibility Report.

Creating Hands-On Learning Opportunities

A key component of SEPP is expanding access to experiential learning opportunities that connect classroom instruction with real-world applications.

Across participating states, students are engaging in research experiences, design challenges, earn and learn opportunities, boot camps and hands-on laboratory activities that provide valuable exposure to semiconductor technologies and careers.

These experiences help students develop technical skills while building awareness of the wide range of opportunities available within the semiconductor industry—from research and design to manufacturing and advanced packaging.

 Supporting Educators and Institutions

Educators play a critical role in preparing students for future careers. Through SEPP, Intel is investing in faculty and teacher development programs that help educators strengthen their understanding of semiconductor technologies and bring relevant content into classrooms.

The program also supports curriculum development and collaboration among educational institutions to ensure learning pathways align with evolving industry needs. By equipping educators with new tools, resources and industry insights, SEPP helps create lasting impact that extends well beyond a single cohort of students.

 Investing in Long-Term Impact

SEPP reflects Intel's ongoing commitment to workforce development and education. The program includes support for graduate scholarships and fellowships, higher education partnerships, student experiences, and K-12 initiatives.

These investments are intended to strengthen workforce readiness, expand access to semiconductor education and help create sustainable talent pipelines for years to come.

 Working Together to Grow the Semiconductor Ecosystem

Strengthening the semiconductor workforce requires collaboration across sectors. Through SEPP, Intel is working alongside educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, community partners and industry stakeholders to build pathways that help more students discover and pursue opportunities in microelectronics.

As demand for semiconductor talent continues to grow, programs like SEPP play an important role in helping students, educators and communities participate in the future of technology and manufacturing.

By investing in people today, Intel is helping create a workforce that will power tomorrow's innovations.