Chancellor J. Michael Haynie delivered remarks and moderated a conversation during the first Micron Day in 2025.
This Foundational Course Opens Doors for Veterans in the Microchip Industry
An is opening doors to one of the country’s fastest-growing industries for veterans, transitioning service members and their spouses, thanks to a partnership between Syracuse University’s (IVMF) and .
To date, more than 1,000 veterans and military-connected members have explored the semiconductor manufacturing industry through the IVMF’s introductory Semiconductor Foundations course. Since January, enrollment in the class has increased by 100%.
Participants leave with a foundational understanding of semiconductor manufacturing, fabrication operations and discovering the important role semiconductor jobs play in the economy and national security.
“We are proud of the momentum this course and our partnership with Micron has generated, but our goal has always been bigger than enrollment,” says . “We’re building an ecosystem that brings together industry, higher education and military-connected talent to strengthen the semiconductor workforce and national security implications for years to come.”
What Participants Learn
The Semiconductor Foundations course was developed in collaboration with Micron subject matter experts and the . Participants learn how a semiconductor fab operates, gain the skills and background that facilitate a transition from active military service to semiconductor manufacturing and become equipped to progress from course completion into the job market.
Since its launch in September 2024, cohorts have been offered both online and in-person, providing a flexible educational setting that brings the lessons to veterans on their terms. Those who complete the course receive access to a national employer network and hiring connections across New York, Virginia and Idaho.
“Veterans, transitioning service members and military spouses bring valuable experience, adaptability and a strong commitment to mission-driven work—qualities that are vital to the future of the semiconductor industry,” says , vice president of global talent acquisition and workforce at Micron Technology.” The Semiconductor Foundations course is opening doors for military-connected talent to explore rewarding careers in semiconductor manufacturing. In addition, they’re building an understanding of the powerful role this industry plays in advancing innovation and strengthening our economy. It’s exciting work that is only possible when we collaborate with our partners. That’s why we truly appreciate Syracuse University and the D’Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families. They are creating pathways that connect talented individuals to new opportunities that are building the future-ready workforce our industry needs.”
The course is available for free to transitioning service members, veterans and military spouses who are currently enrolled in , the IVMF’s career training program that has served more than 100,000 veterans and military spouses since 2011 and helps military connected individuals prepare for civilian careers through industry-recognized certifications and evidence-based workforce programming.
No prior semiconductor experience is required to take the class. Upon completion, participants will receive a certificate from Syracuse University.
The effort, offered through the IVMF’s Semiconductor Hub, is creating a veteran workforce pipeline that prepares participants for promising new careers in the chips industry.
“For nearly two decades, the IVMF has helped employers recognize the value veterans bring to emerging industries,” Toenniessen says. “Semiconductors represent the next chapter. As this industry grows nationwide, partnerships that align military talent with workforce demand will become increasingly important.”
From Classroom to Career
Course graduates gain access to the IVMF’s employer network, where Micron serves as the inaugural semiconductor employer partner. The network is designed to connect qualified military talent with employers across the growing semiconductor ecosystem while supporting future expansion into additional manufacturing regions.
The IVMF continues to expand relationships across the semiconductor ecosystem, including discussions with GlobalFoundries, SEMI and the Semiconductor Industry Association, while strengthening educational pathways through regional institutions including Onondaga Community College and Jefferson Community College.
Micron says it will start producing chips at its new manufacturing site in four years. It plans to build up to four chip making factories in the Town of Clay to manufacture billions of the tiny computer chips that are needed for everything from cell phones and cars to artificial intelligence and household appliances.
