Build the Skills High-Tech Employers Need
Start on your pathway toward a career in the semiconductor industry.
Written By
Brenda Decker
Senior Digital Content Specialist,
Grand Canyon Education
Start on your pathway toward a career in the semiconductor industry.
The semiconductor industry plays a pivotal role in modern tech, powering many devices or systems. GCU's MSI Pathway helps you explore semiconductor manufacturing and related technical field careers with hands-on experience and industry participation.
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The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Grand Canyon University. Any sources cited were accurate as of the publish date.
The semiconductor industry is widely regarded as one of the fastest-growing and most influential sectors in today’s economy.(See disclaimer 1) From powering smartphones and electric vehicles to supporting advancements in AI and renewable energy, semiconductors drive much of the technology we rely on every day. For students with technical training or an interest in technology, this field offers immersive learning experiences and opportunities for long-term professional growth.(See disclaimer 1)
In Arizona, there were 2,060 employed professionals working as semiconductor processing technicians, ranking the state among the top five in the U.S. for highest employment levels in that occupation.(See disclaimer 2)
Global semiconductor sales are projected to reach nearly $700 billion in 2025 and potentially hit $1 trillion by 2030.(See disclaimer 5) This means more potential job openings and a higher need for trained workers in manufacturing, engineering and technical roles.(See disclaimer 5,6)
Chips power virtually every device we use — smartphones, laptops, smart appliances, cars, medical devices and more. The need for advanced chips (such as those used for AI, cloud computing or autonomous vehicles) is accelerating, which in turn fuels the need for skilled individuals who make and maintain them.(See disclaimer 5) Working in semiconductor manufacturing or design means you’re directly contributing to the technology that keeps our world connected and running smoothly.
With AI and smart automation transforming chip design and production, the job growth for semiconductor processing technician roles is expected to increase by 11% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than average, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).(See disclaimer 7)
Arizona ranked among top 5 in the U.S. for highest employment levels in semiconductor processing.(See disclaimer 2)
Whether you’re interested in automation and robotics, industrial engineering, equipment operation, microelectronics or supply chain and production systems, the need for skilled trade workers is high.(See disclaimer 8) With about 60% of semiconductor firms seeking talent skilled in advanced manufacturing and data analysis, developing these capabilities is the first step in how to get into semiconductor industry roles.(See disclaimer 9)
Employers in the semiconductor sector seek candidates with the right mix of skills, education and a strong foundation in automation, process control and data analysis. Top requested skills include:(See disclaimer 10)
A variety of educational pathways may lead to a semiconductor career, such as:(See disclaimer 11)
The MSI Pathway integrates education and career development, providing you with the insight, knowledge and experience to potentially stand out in the rapidly evolving field of semiconductor manufacturing.(See disclaimer 12) This pathway is best suited for those who:
Completing this pathway also gives students valuable experience and potential career opportunities, including:
Grand Canyon University’s Manufacturing Specialist Intensive (MSI) Pathway, sponsored by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited (TSMC) Arizona, offers a one-semester path into advanced manufacturing. The MSI Pathway bridges the gap between education and workforce readiness in manufacturing — helping you build the skills, confidence and credentials to join one of the world’s most advanced industries.
The MSI Pathway at GCU is designed to prepare students for immediate roles in advanced manufacturing through focused training and industry experience. In just 11 weeks, participants will complete four courses, study industry-recognized skills and participate in an interactive observation experience at the TSMC facility in Arizona.
“You are the future of Arizona — you are going to build the future of Arizona right here. Just think of the economic impact you all are going to be making; it’s significant.”
-Randy Gibb, PhD, GCU Provost
As the need for advanced electronics continues to surge, companies offering careers in the semiconductor industry are investing heavily in production and workforce development.(See disclaimer 3,4) Continue reading to learn more about what the Manufacturing Specialist Intensive (MSI) Pathway at Grand Canyon University offers and how to get into the semiconductor industry.
This pathway experience culminates in a one-week, field-based shadowing opportunity at TSMC Arizona’s facility, where you’ll observe semiconductor manufacturing in action and apply classroom concepts in a professional environment. This direct exposure to innovative operations builds confidence, skill and a deeper understanding of how advanced manufacturing functions on a global scale.
“We plan to hire 100-200 people from the pathway each year to support our $165 billion investment commitment in TSMC Arizona, and look forward to seeing local talent join us and grow with us together.”
— Jacque Fan, Manufacturing Department Manager, TSMC Arizona
GCU and TSMC launched this career-ready program to help professionals who may not want to earn a traditional college degree take the first step toward a new career. TSMC Arizona plays a key role in developing the next generation of skilled manufacturing professionals through its partnership with the MSI Pathway at GCU. This partnership connects learners with industry opportunities and aims to prepares them to contribute to the nation’s growing advanced manufacturing landscape.(See disclaimer 12)
"Developing technology is one of the clearest paths to peace and promise. When we are making microchips, we are developing tools for emergency services, the prevention of crime or even natural disasters.”
-Riley Shoemaker, MSI Pathway Completer
Semiconductor manufacturing offers strong entry points for individuals with technical training, such as the MSI Pathway or associate-level education.(See disclaimer 6) Common roles include manufacturing technicians, equipment operators and process assistants, which often focus on:
• Monitoring production equipment
• Inspecting wafers
• Maintaining clean-room standards
• Supporting efforts to improve yield
As automation advances, future roles such as process engineers, design engineers and mechanical engineers will require additional skills in robotics, AI-driven monitoring and data management — along with a bachelor’s degree in a relevant engineering field. This MSI Pathway can serve as an early steppingstone for building foundational skills that may support long-term goals in this industry.
This industry-funded career pathway is designed to connect you with interactive training, academic support and direct exposure to leading employers in the semiconductor industries and advanced manufacturing. The MSI Pathway at GCU can also help you strengthen critical thinking, problem-solving and technical communication skills — essential for working in fast-paced, innovation-driven environments.
You will have access to GCU’s Career Connections platform to help you build your resume, explore job opportunities and prepare for interviews. Our Center for Workforce Development further strengthens this support, with 439 students having completed all required courses in GCU’s Center for Workforce Development pathways (2022 to Spring 2025).
