Arizona’s Semiconductor Boom: Empowering the Next Generation of Talent
By Danny Fisher, Dean of Manufacturing, Industrial Technology, and Trades, GateWay Community College
This past October, I had the privilege of representing GateWay Community College at SemiCon West in Phoenix, participating in a panel titled “Arizona: Supplying the Next Generation of Talent.” The event brought together education, industry, and government leaders from across the semiconductor ecosystem to discuss how Arizona is leading the nation in building a sustainable, highly skilled workforce for this rapidly expanding industry.
Our panel—moderated by Kolu Wilson of the Arizona Commerce Authority and joined by Nick Irigoyen of the SEMI Foundation and Scott Holman from Amkor Arizona—focused on one key question: How is Arizona preparing the next generation of semiconductor talent?
At GateWay, that answer is rooted in collaboration and access. As part of the Maricopa County Community College District, we are building direct pathways from classroom to cleanroom—connecting students with hands-on technical training that aligns with industry needs. Through partnerships with leading semiconductor companies and regional workforce initiatives, we are ensuring students can step into high-demand roles in fabrication, maintenance, and advanced manufacturing.
The momentum is undeniable. Arizona is home to some of the world’s largest semiconductor investments, and with that growth comes a profound responsibility—to make sure our local communities benefit from these opportunities. GateWay’s role is to help students see themselves in these careers, no matter their background or starting point.
Our programs are designed to be industry-responsive, accessible, and future-focused. Whether it’s through accelerated technician training, upskilling opportunities for incumbent workers, or partnerships with high schools and correctional facilities, we are building an ecosystem where every learner can find their place in this transformative industry.SemiCon West reaffirmed what many of us already know: Arizona’s strength lies in collaboration. When education, industry, and government work together, we don’t just fill jobs—we create pathways to lifelong success.
GateWay Community College is proud to be part of that vision, preparing the workforce that will power the technologies of tomorrow.