Break into a new career in

Semiconductor

Gain semiconductor manufacturing skills near Austin, TX, and earn an industry-recognized certificate in 14 weeks without quitting your job—$0 upfront.

  • 14 weeks
  • 3 in-person labs
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Why Semiconductor and Advanced Manufacturing

Why Semiconductor and Advanced Manufacturing?

Considering a career change into a high-tech, fast-growing industry? Semiconductor and Advanced Manufacturing offers a stable and lucrative career path in the cutting-edge world of electronics, technology, and industrial production. With demand for semiconductors skyrocketing, companies need skilled professionals to support innovation, production, and supply chain efficiency.

In-Demand Careers: With billions invested in domestic chip production and the CHIPS and Science Act allocating $52 billion to boost U.S. semiconductor manufacturing, job opportunities are rapidly expanding. This industry growth is creating thousands of new roles in engineering, operations, and production, offering continuous career advancement in both small and large tech-driven organizations.

Fulfilling Work: Engage in roles that blend hands-on technical skills with problem-solving innovation, allowing you to work on cutting-edge technology that powers everything from smartphones to electric vehicles. Our alumni are prepared for roles such as Manufacturing Technicians, Production Specialists, Quality Control Technicians, Equipment Technicians, Wafer Fabrication Technicians, Test Technicians, and more!

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Eligibility
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Start Your Journey in Semiconductor & Advanced Manufacturing – Cohort Begins July 15!

This unique training opportunity is designed for learners in the Austin area and includes three required, full-day in-person labs held at Austin Community College (ACC) – choose from the Highland, Round Rock, or Riverside Rock Campus. To ensure this program is the right fit, please complete this quick eligibility check before starting your application.

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Can you commit to attending three in-person lab days in Austin, TX during the program?

These full-day, hands-on lab experiences take place on select Fridays or Saturdays and are a key part of your training.

Our alums work for the world’s top tech companies

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Flexible Schedule

Work life balance

Your third-party coursework and Merit America career coaching services are online. Live meetings are only 3–5 hours per week, and you can complete your coursework between work shifts or on weekends—whatever works for your life.

To support your hands-on learning, you’ll also participate in three full-day, in-person lab sessions held at Austin Community College (ACC), where you’ll gain real-world practice with the tools, technology, and processes used in advanced manufacturing, scheduled on the weekends that work best for you.

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My Calendar

Monday, January 10

Merit America Program

  • At Work  8am – 3pm
  • Online Coursework  3pm – 5pm
  • Daycare pick-up  5:15pm
  • Family Dinner  6pm
  • 1:1 Career Coaching  8pm
Supported Learning

Work with a team dedicated to your success

Meet regularly with a career coach and squad of your peers to keep you on track. After you finish, you’ll join a network of thousands of Merit America alumni.

Chat

  • Michael, Career Coach

    How’s your coursework going this week?

  • Cora

    I’m really struggling with my resume…

  • Michael, Career Coach

    You’ve got this! Let me connect you with our job success coach, Teresa.

    Also, something to look forward to: you’re only one week away from completing your Google Certificate!

How does Merit America compare?

Merit AmericaCommunity College
Course Length14 weeks1–2 years
Learning FormatHybrid: online + 3 in-person lab daysIn-person
Part-time? 20 hours/week Varies
Payment$0 upfront, with no payments until at least three months after you complete or exit your programTuition paid upfront
Credential Earned Occupational Skills Award Yes
Organization TypeNon-profit (Merit America collaborates with for-profits)For-profit or Non-profit
Coaching and Job Search Support Yes Varies
Downside Protection Yes No
Curriculum

14 weeks of hybrid learning

FAQ
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Semiconductor & Advanced Manufacturing
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Frequently Asked Questions

Resources
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