US Chip-Making Dream Awakes To Labor Crisis Reality

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The push to bring semiconductor manufacturing back to the US faces a significant hurdle: a shortage of skilled workers .

The semiconductor industry is expected to need 300,000 engineers by 2030 as new plants are built. Without a well-trained workforce, these efforts will fall short, and the US will remain dependent on foreign suppliers.

This isn't just a problem for the tech sector – it affects every industry that relies on semiconductors, from auto manufacturing to defense contractors. Virtually every military communication, monitoring and advanced weapon system relies on microchips.

It's not sustainable or safe for the US to rely on foreign nations – especially adversaries – for the technology that powers its military.

For the US to secure supply chains and maintain technological leadership, I believe it would be wise to invest in education and workforce development alongside manufacturing expansion.

Next generation semiconductor engineers

Filling this labor gap will require a nationwide effort to train engineers and technicians in semiconductor research, design and fabrication . Engineering programs across the country are taking up this challenge by introducing specialized curricula that combine hands-on training with industry-focused coursework.

Clean rooms, a vital part of semiconductor factories, are also where the next generation of tech innovators conduct research. Here, a Ph.D. candidate is seen in an air shower room before entering a clean room at Tokyo University on May 1, 2024. Yuichi Yamazaki/Getty Images /The Conversation

Future semiconductor workers will need expertise in chip design and microelectronics, materials science and process engineering , and advanced manufacturing and clean room operations .

To meet this demand, it will be important for universities and colleges to work alongside industry leaders to ensure students graduate with the skills employers need .

Offering hands-on experience in semiconductor fabrication, clean-room-based labs and advanced process design will be essential for preparing a workforce that's ready to contribute from Day 1 .

At Missouri University of Science of Technology, where I am the chair of the materials science and engineering department, we're launching a multidisciplinary bachelor's degree in semiconductor engineering this fall.

Other universities across the US are also expanding their semiconductor engineering options amid strong demand from both industry and students .