Creating Pathways to Semiconductor Careers: Intel Launches SEPP

Intel introduced the Semiconductor Education Pathways Program (SEPP), a workforce development initiative funded by the company to strengthen education from K-12 through post-secondary levels and into semiconductor careers. The program targets regions critical to Intel’s U.S. manufacturing operations, including Arizona, New Mexico, Ohio, and Oregon, by collaborating with local schools, colleges, and nonprofits. SEPP aims to address workforce needs in engineering, manufacturing, research, and technician roles by creating scalable models tailored to regional requirements. The initiative is part of Intel’s broader higher education portfolio, which includes partnerships with over 32 states and organizations like the U.S. National Science Foundation.

SEPP emphasizes experiential learning, offering students research experiences, design challenges, and hands-on lab activities to connect classroom instruction with real-world semiconductor applications. The program also provides earn-and-learn opportunities, boot camps, and internships to expose learners to careers in microelectronics, design, manufacturing, and advanced packaging. These experiences help students develop technical skills while increasing awareness of industry opportunities. SEPP’s regional focus ensures that learning pathways align with local workforce demands and industry trends.

The program invests in educator development, supporting faculty and teachers with training, curriculum resources, and industry insights to integrate semiconductor content into classrooms. SEPP fosters collaboration among educational institutions to ensure learning pathways remain relevant to evolving industry needs. By equipping educators with tools and knowledge, the program aims to create long-term impact beyond individual student cohorts. These efforts are designed to build sustainable talent pipelines for the semiconductor sector.

SEPP reflects Intel’s broader commitment to workforce development, including graduate scholarships, higher education partnerships, and K-12 initiatives. The program collaborates with educational institutions, nonprofits, and industry stakeholders to expand access to semiconductor education and prepare students for future careers. As demand for skilled semiconductor talent grows, SEPP plays a role in ensuring communities and students can participate in the technology and manufacturing sectors. Intel’s investments aim to create a workforce capable of driving future innovations in the industry.