SEMI Foundation Gains U.S. Department of Labor Approval as National Apprenticeship Sponsor for Semiconductor Industry

The SEMI Foundation has received official approval from the U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL) as a National Apprenticeship Sponsor. The designation, announced on January 20, 2026, enables the organization to support registered apprenticeship programs in the U.S. semiconductor sector.

The approval allows the SEMI Foundation to collaborate directly with employers to design, register, and expand apprenticeship initiatives that address industry requirements and provide structured career pathways combining paid work and training.

SEMI member companies will have priority access to sponsorship services, technical assistance, and program development resources. The Foundation plans to extend participation to additional employers in the semiconductor supply chain over time.

Under the national sponsorship structure, the SEMI Foundation will handle administrative and regulatory processes for employers establishing apprenticeships, promote standardized frameworks aligned with industry standards, facilitate multi-state implementation, and maintain compliance with federal quality requirements while keeping programs employer-led.

The initiative coordinates with the National Network for Microelectronics Education (NNME), an NSF-funded program managed by the Foundation. Through NNME's regional nodes, apprenticeship efforts will connect to local employer needs, educa...