Onondaga Community College (OCC) has officially opened its new Micron Simulation Lab, a 3,000-square-foot training facility designed to prepare students for careers in the semiconductor industry. The lab, which simulates a real-world cleanroom environment, was funded through a partnership involving Micron Technology, New York State, and Onondaga County.
Key Takeaways
- Onondaga Community College launched a 3,000-square-foot Micron Simulation Lab on October 1.
- The facility aims to provide hands-on training for students entering semiconductor and microelectronic careers.
- Funding included a $5 million gift from Micron, which was matched by both New York State and Onondaga County.
- The lab allows students to work with industry-standard equipment in a replicated cleanroom environment.
A Strategic Partnership for Workforce Development
Onondaga Community College celebrated the opening of its state-of-the-art Micron Simulation Lab with a "wire-cutting" ceremony on Wednesday. The facility represents a significant step in preparing a skilled workforce for the growing semiconductor industry in Central New York.
The project was made possible by a $5 million contribution from Micron Technology. This investment was matched by both New York State and Onondaga County, bringing the total funding to $15 million and underscoring a regional commitment to technological education and job creation.
April Arnzen, Micron’s executive vice president, highlighted the importance of this collaboration. She stated that the region's strong educational ecosystem was a key factor in Micron's decision to establish operations in Clay, New York.
"The incredible workforce and the training and the educational ecosystem are actually one of the reasons we chose Central New York and Clay," Arnzen said. "Getting them the semiconductor experience is very important, so they can start contributing on day one."
Inside the Advanced Training Facility
The new simulation lab spans 3,000 square feet and is equipped with advanced machinery identical to that used in professional semiconductor manufacturing facilities. This setup provides students with a safe, controlled environment to gain practical experience before entering the workforce.
What is a Cleanroom?
A cleanroom is a controlled environment with a low level of pollutants such as dust, airborne microbes, and chemical vapors. These rooms are essential in semiconductor manufacturing, where even microscopic particles can ruin microchips.
According to OCC President Dr. Warren Hilton, the curriculum focuses on practical skills. Students will learn how to operate and troubleshoot the sophisticated tools used to maintain cleanrooms and produce microchips.
"They’re learning how to problem-solve and analyze things," Hilton explained. This emphasis on analytical skills is designed to ensure graduates are prepared for the technical challenges of the industry.
From Classroom to Career a Student's Journey
The impact of this program is already evident in the experiences of students like Nick Hay. A 2018 graduate of Onondaga Central High School, Hay initially pursued automotive technology at OCC but soon realized his passion lay elsewhere. After working for over five years as an electronic technician, a visit to a Micron exhibit at the New York State Fair inspired a new career path.
Hay re-enrolled at OCC in the spring of 2024, joining the Electromechanical Technology degree program. This decision led to a summer internship at Micron's plant in Virginia, where he gained firsthand experience in a professional cleanroom.
"I was working in the cleanroom on the machines; it was a life-changing experience that helped with everything with knowledge, and I grew more as a person," Hay shared.
Now in his final semester, Hay is training in the new simulation lab, an environment that closely mirrors his internship experience. His story illustrates the direct pathway the program offers from education to high-demand technical careers.
Student Pathway Facts
- Student: Nick Hay
- Previous Career: Electronic technician at United Radio for 5+ years.
- New Program: Electromechanical Technology at OCC.
- Hands-on Experience: Internship at Micron's Virginia plant.
Preparing for Future Job Growth
The opening of the Micron Simulation Lab is timed to meet the anticipated demand for skilled technicians in the coming years. As Micron expands its presence in Central New York, the need for a well-trained local workforce will become increasingly critical.
The lab is designed to serve a diverse group of learners, including recent high school graduates, adults seeking to change careers, and current professionals looking to upgrade their skills. By providing accessible, hands-on training, OCC and its partners aim to build a robust talent pipeline that can support the region's economic growth.
The program's focus on real-world application ensures that students are not just learning theory but are actively preparing to step into jobs that are vital for the future of technology in the region and beyond.