When people think about the future of work, they often picture tech companies, artificial intelligence, and smart devices. But behind the scenes, semiconductors and modern manufacturing processes are powering much of that innovation.
If you are looking for a career that feels meaningful but are not sure where to start, this could be the opportunity you have been waiting for.
In this post, we explain the growing demand for semiconductor talent, what advanced manufacturing really involves, and how Merit America’s new Career Track can help you start a high-tech career—without needing a college degree or full-time availability.
What Is a Semiconductor and Why Does It Matter?
A semiconductor is a small chip that helps power the electronics you use every day, like phones, laptops, cars, and appliances. These chips are essential to how modern technology functions.
Making semiconductors is complex. It requires advanced tools, careful attention to safety, and precise manufacturing steps. As demand grows, the United States is investing heavily to bring chip production back home, creating many new job opportunities.
The CHIPS and Science Act, passed in 2022, invested more than $52 billion to support this effort. By 2030, experts expect over 115,000 new jobs to be created in this industry.
But there is a problem. A recent study by Oxford Economics found that nearly 60 percent of these jobs could go unfilled if we rely only on traditional degree programs.
The good news: many of these roles do not require a four-year degree. Entry-level opportunities include:
- Production Technician
- Process Technician
- Equipment Technician
These jobs offer a clear path for people making a career change. On average, production technicians earn around $43,320 per year, with strong potential for future growth.
What is the Semiconductor & Advanced Manufacturing Career Track?
Merit America’s Semiconductor & Advanced Manufacturing Career Track is specifically designed for people who want to upskill without upending their lives.
This hybrid program blends online learning with three in-person lab days in the Austin area. Over the course of 14 weeks, you’ll gain both technical knowledge and professional skills that prepare you for real job opportunities in the field.
Here’s what’s included:
- 3 full-day in-person labs at Austin Community College (ACC)
- 70+ hours of professional skills training (like communication, job search, and workplace readiness)
- 100+ hours of technical training in manufacturing systems, safety protocols, and equipment handling
- A chance to earn an Occupational Skills Award
And the best part? The program is 100% funded for eligible learners in the upcoming cohort.
What You’ll Learn
This isn’t just theory. You’ll gain real, job-ready skills that prepare you to work in manufacturing environments right away.
Course 1: Manufacturing Production Essentials
- How to work safely in cleanrooms and high-tech environments
- Basic tool use and safety procedures
- OSHA compliance and industry safety standards
- Quality control systems and production workflows
🧪 Lab preview: soldering, gowning, virtual safety simulations
Course 2: Maintenance and Quality Principles
- Introduction to electrical and pneumatic systems
- How to measure precisely and work within tight tolerances
- Basic maintenance procedures for industrial equipment
- Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement principles
🧪 Lab preview: electronics testing, pneumatics setup, measurement tools
By the end of the program, you won’t just understand how these systems work—you’ll have practiced using the same tools and methods used in the industry today.
Live in the Austin Area? This Program Was Made for You
This program is open only to learners near Austin, Texas because of the required in-person lab days. These sessions are held on select Fridays or Saturdays at ACC’s Highland, Round Rock, and Riverside campuses.
The rest of your coursework takes place online, giving you the flexibility to study between shifts, on weekends, or in the evenings—whatever fits your schedule.
To join the program, you’ll need to meet a few basic requirements:
- Be 18 years or older
- Have a high school diploma or GED
- Be fluent in English (reading, writing, and speaking)
- Be authorized to work in the United States
- Be available for three full-day labs in Austin
- Be actively seeking full-time employment after the program
You do not need prior manufacturing experience. You do not need a college degree. You just need a willingness to learn and grow.
How This Program Compares
Once you complete the program, you’ll be ready to apply for entry-level roles in high-demand fields like semiconductor production and advanced manufacturing.
You can step into roles that offer stability, strong wages, and opportunities to grow into more specialized or leadership positions over time.
And if you’re wondering how this compares to other options like community college, here’s a quick look:
| Feature | Merit America | Community College |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 14 weeks | 1–2 years |
| Format | Hybrid: online + in-person labs | Fully in-person |
| Part-time friendly | Yes | Varies |
| Cost | $0 upfront | Tuition due upfront |
| Career support | Yes | Varies |
| Credential | Occupational Skills Award + CPT | Varies |
Ready to Start? The Next Cohort Is Coming Up
The world runs on semiconductors—and someone has to build them. That someone could be you.
If you’re looking for Austin tech jobs or want to take the first step into a fast-growing industry without starting over, Merit America’s Semiconductor & Advanced Manufacturing Career Track is the path forward.
In just 14 weeks, you’ll gain practical experience, personalized career coaching, and an industry-recognized credential—all while staying in your current job.
✅ No degree required
✅ Fully funded for eligible learners