Press Release

Orlando Economic Partnership unveils Semiconductor Manufacturing in Central Florida White Papers  

A new series of white papers outlines strategies to tackle workforce challenges, build robust talent pipelines, and solidify Central Florida’s role in the global semiconductor industry. 

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The three-part series includes: Part I – Ecosystem Overview; Part II – A Skills-Based Approach to Workforce Development; Part III – A Review of the Education Ecosystem.

Orlando, Fla. – The Orlando Economic Partnership (OEP), in collaboration with regional partners, is spearheading efforts to establish Central Florida as a globally competitive semiconductor industry cluster. With its vital role in the nation’s economic and national security, the semiconductor sector is poised to make transformative contributions to the regional economy and the United States’ technological resilience. 

Backed by over half a billion dollars in federal and state grants, including substantial funding from the CHIPS Act, the region is quickly becoming a critical hub for reshoring semiconductor production. This collaborative approach by Osceola County, BRIDG, University of Central Florida, Valencia College, CareerSource, imec, and the University of Florida solidifies Central Florida’s role in ensuring the U.S. remains a global technological leader while bolstering national security and economic prosperity.  

To further explain the impact this has in our region, the OEP released three groundbreaking white papers intended to present a path forward for workforce development in semiconductor manufacturing, addressing challenges and showcasing opportunities within this vital industry. 

“These white papers highlight the incredible opportunities within Central Florida to address the semiconductor workforce challenges through innovative education pathways and skills-based hiring.

Tammy Humphrey, Ed.D., Senior Director of Talent Development

“By aligning our regional talent ecosystem with industry needs, we are creating a sustainable foundation for growth and ensuring Central Florida’s leadership in this critical sector,” added Humphrey.

The series, Semiconductor Manufacturing in Central Florida, offers a comprehensive analysis of the region’s evolving role in the global semiconductor ecosystem: 

Part I – Ecosystem Overview 

This introductory white paper lays the groundwork for understanding Central Florida’s position as a semiconductor leader. It details the life cycle of a semiconductor, global supply chain dynamics, and the region’s competitive advantages. Highlights include: 

  • Central Florida’s successful attraction of over $500 million in federal and state investments under the CHIPS and Science Act, including a $50.8 million Build Back Better Regional Challenge award to support NeoCity. 
  • Insight into the U.S.’s role in semiconductor research and design and how Central Florida’s capabilities align with reshoring efforts. 
  • An exploration of NeoCity’s infrastructure and its potential to transform the region into a global hub for advanced semiconductor manufacturing and innovation. 

Part II – A Skills-Based Approach to Workforce Development 

This second installment confronts the pressing talent shortages in the semiconductor industry and offers a skills-based solution. Key takeaways include: 

  • Analysis of the three major job categories in semiconductor manufacturing: Operators, Technicians, and Subject Matter Experts. 
  • Identification of more than 103,000 Central Florida workers with skills compatible with semiconductor jobs, emphasizing transferable skills from other industries. 
  • Strategies for leveraging skills-based hiring practices to attract and retain talent, including pathways for nontraditional workers such as baristas and computer repair technicians to enter the industry through upskilling initiatives. 

Part III – A Review of the Education Ecosystem 

The final paper in the series highlights Central Florida’s robust education pipeline, which is designed to meet the growing demand for semiconductor talent. Notable elements include: 

  • A detailed map of Central Florida’s education and workforce ecosystem, from K-12 magnet programs like NeoCity Academy to Valencia College’s cutting-edge semiconductor technician training programs. 
  • Insight into partnerships between local colleges and industry leaders, such as Valencia College’s 22-week robotics and semiconductor technician program co-developed with SkyWater Technology. 
  • Plans for new degree pathways, such as Valencia College’s Associate of Science in Semiconductor Engineering Technology and the University of Central Florida’s forthcoming bachelor’s degree in semiconductor technology. 

Why These Papers Matter 

The reports collectively spotlight Central Florida’s unprecedented opportunity to lead in reshoring semiconductor manufacturing, a $52 billion national priority under the CHIPS Act. By addressing talent pipeline constraints, the region is positioned to drive innovation, attract investment, and secure its place as a semiconductor powerhouse. 

Click here to download the white papers. For media inquiries or to arrange interviews, please contact: Jennifer Marcial Ocasio |Director of Communications | jennifer.marcial@orlando.org | 407-902-0221.

About the Orlando Economic Partnership

The Orlando Economic Partnership (the Partnership) is the Orlando region’s economic and community development organization that is seizing the moment to advance Broad-based Prosperity® by growing the diversity of the economy and driving investment into the region. The Partnership catalyzes the collaborative ethos of the region to fuel regional leadership and improve the region’s competitiveness. Learn why opportunity in Orlando is Unbelievably Real™ at InvestOrlando.org