Semiconductor Careers
Get ready! Intel is arriving in Ohio.
Get the Training and Knowledge You Need at COTC
In collaboration with
Central Ohio’s emergence as a semiconductor hub, fueled by Intel’s arrival, presents an exciting opportunity for people of all backgrounds aspiring to pursue a career in this rapidly evolving industry. Our electrical engineering technology associate degree provides students with world-class education and training — aligning curriculums with industry demands — and ensures graduates are well-prepared for the booming semiconductor landscape.
With abundant career opportunities, excellent salaries and a thriving tech ecosystem, attending COTC and exploring a semiconductor career in central Ohio is a decision that promises a bright future filled with innovation and growth.
Coursework in COTC’s program was developed in collaboration with semiconductor leader Intel Corp so you will be well prepared upon completion. Choose from a two-year associate degree in semiconductor manufacturing engineering technology with courses specific to Intel or an industrial electrician certificate for career readiness in nine months.
Why a Career in the Silicon Heartland Holds Promise
Semiconductor Manufacturing Engineering Technology
Introduction
The Associate of Applied Science in Semiconductor Manufacturing Engineering Technology helps students gain the necessary high-tech career skills to join the workforce of tomorrow — for both established and new industries. With input from existing local employers, this degree is designed to give students a well-rounded base of education that will allow them to move into any type of high-performance leadership position. Leaders at many of the region’s advanced manufacturing companies started their careers as engineering technicians, with an associate degree like those offered by COTC.
Students learn hands-on working with circuits and equipment in COTC’s engineering labs. They will gain important manufacturing skills, such as safety, technology integration, leadership and project management — skills that are essential to any advanced manufacturing organization.
Program Overview
Credit Hours: 65
Tuition: $13,910
Textbooks and Supplies: $1,200
Overview of courses:
First Semester
- Composition I
- Introduction to Engineering & Occupational Safety
- Computer Apps for Engineering
- College Algebra
- Engineering Graphics with AutoCAD
- Critical Thinking
Second Semester
- Industrial Controls/Automation
- Intro to Semiconductors
- Elementary Physics
- Circuits I
- IT Project Management
- Fundamentals of Communication
Third Semester
- Circuits II
- Environmental Science
- Fluid Mechanics & Fluid Power
- Introduction to Vacuum Systems
- Digital Electronics I
Fourth Semester
- Quality Control / Assurance
- Technical Writing
- Engineering Technology Co-Op
- Statistical Process Control
- Engineering Technology Capstone
All you need is a high school diploma, and our guidance counselors and tutors will walk you through what it takes to succeed.
Career Outlook
Due to Intel’s announcement of investing $20 billion in two semiconductor manufacturing facilities in Licking County, creating 3,000 permanent jobs, the region’s high-tech industrialization will continue to accelerate rapidly. Intel plans to hire 70% of its Ohio workforce at the associate degree level. Leaders at many of the region’s advanced manufacturing companies started their careers as engineering technicians, with an associate degree such as offered by COTC.
While earning an associate degree does not guarantee employment, COTC’s semiconductor manufacturing engineering technology degree positions individuals extremely well for roles at Intel and many other manufacturing firms.
Why Central Ohio Technical College?
Relevant: Over 90% of our graduates are hired in their field within six months.
Affordable: Several exclusive grants and more than $1 million in scholarships help you pay for college. We believe college should be affordable for everyone.
Flexible: About 80% of our students are part time. You are busy. We help you juggle your job, family and education with flexible programs.
Personal: Our small classes provide great opportunities for faculty-student interaction and mentorship.
Academic Advising: From your first semester until you graduate, academic advisors work with you to provide guidance on developing meaningful academic and career goals.
Student Success: Many free programs such as student success coaching, tutoring, disability services and career development.
Counseling Service: Free and confidential counseling on campus, face-to-face, to help you get through college and life.
Emergency Grants: Life happens. Students who are facing a temporary financial struggle may be eligible for financial assistance.
This Isn’t Your Parent’s Manufacturing
What Students are Saying
“I like that anytime I needed help, it was there. There was Math Lab, which was awesome. I like that I did most of my classes online because I have a son, so it was convenient. I literally went to school throughout my entire pregnancy, had him and started two weeks later so that was awesome to have online classes.”
Brittany Klinkert
“Now, as I enter my career, it’s comforting to know that I have options here in central Ohio — that there are jobs that will allow me to stay close to my family, buy a house, build a family of my own, and save up for a comfortable retirement.”
Maddix Curliss
“[COTC] helped me prepare for a lot of things in life. It’s something I wish I would have done sooner. But I believe everything happens for a reason, so I don’t look on anything as it was a regret. I learned a lot of obstacles and, you know, I mean, it’s a great experience and I’ll never forget it. I’m bigger.”
Nicole Loudermilk
Intel Scholarship for Women in Technology
Intel Corporation has established a scholarship program to assist women who plan to enroll in a two-year associate degree or one-year semiconductor certificate program in the state of Ohio. If selected as a recipient, the student will qualify for a $5,000 award. Up to 25 awards will be granted. Awards are for qualified education-related expenses (e.g., tuition, fees, books and required expenses) and other critical required expenses, such as transportation and childcare, incurred in the 2024-2025 school year.
The application program will be available again in December.