The semiconductor industry is currently facing a myriad of challenges in recruiting skilled workers amid a tight labor market. As the competition for talent continues to intensify and funds from the CHIPS and Science Act are allocated to boost domestic production, companies in the industry are finding it increasingly difficult to find qualified individuals to fill crucial roles. According to projections, the U.S. chips industry is expected to experience a shortage of 67,000 technicians, computer scientists, and engineers by 2030, while the broader U.S. economy is anticipated to face a shortfall of 1.4 million such workers.
A recent study by the Semiconductor Industry Association revealed that the talent crunch in the semiconductor space could worsen due to the global economic environment and ongoing supply chain issues. This poses a significant challenge for companies like GlobalFoundries, the third-largest chipmaker globally, as they strive to meet the growing demand for their products. GlobalFoundries is actively recruiting talent from a variety of sources, including veteran candidates, its own workforce reentry program, and initiatives aimed at promoting diversity in the industry.
To address the talent shortage, GlobalFoundries launched the semiconductor industry’s first registered apprenticeship program in 2021. This program offers full-time paid positions with benefits, training at no cost to the apprentice, and can be completed in two years or less. It is open to individuals with a high school diploma or equivalent who have an interest in the mechanical field. The company has successfully onboarded 50 apprentices through the program and is actively recruiting graduates with technical associate degrees and veterans transitioning out of the military.
In addition to recruiting new talent, GlobalFoundries recognizes the importance of training and retaining existing workers to meet the demands of the industry. Employees like Morgan Woods, who started as a technician and has since transitioned into a training and development analyst role, highlight the opportunities for advancement within the company. Woods emphasizes the significance of compliance as GlobalFoundries expands into new markets and works with major clients like General Motors.
GlobalFoundries has introduced initiatives to support its employees, such as a benefit that provides eligible U.S.-based employees and new hires with a tax-free lifetime total of $28,500 toward student debt. This program has exceeded expectations, with over 200 applicants seeking financial relief. Employees like Woods view these benefits as instrumental in achieving future financial goals, such as homeownership and starting a family.
Funding from the CHIPS and Science Act is expected to fuel growth for GlobalFoundries’ manufacturing fabs in New York and Vermont. The company announced $1.5 billion in planned CHIPS funding to expand manufacturing capacity, which is projected to create 1,500 manufacturing jobs and 9,000 construction jobs over the lifetime of planned projects. This investment aims to address worker shortages in manufacturing and construction while attracting new talent to the industry.
As the semiconductor industry grapples with a tight labor market and talent shortage, companies like GlobalFoundries are innovating in their approach to workforce development. By offering apprenticeship programs, financial benefits, and opportunities for advancement, these companies are working to attract and retain top talent in a competitive environment. The industry’s growth and success will hinge on its ability to adapt to changing workforce dynamics and provide a welcoming environment for employees from diverse backgrounds.