The OMA and the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) will launch two new microcredentials for the semiconductor industry in 2026. Co-developed with Intel, Tosoh, and Micron, the credentials target two critically demanded positions: equipment technicians and facility technicians. Together, these industry leaders identified the critical knowledge, skills and abilities in these two areas and worked with education providers to develop standards, performance measures, and knowledge checks to design the two credentials.

In the final step of the development process, industry subject matter experts, faculty and students in semiconductor-related programs will pilot the credentials for finalization and deployment to the field for the 2026-27 school year. The credentials will be available for instruction in K-12 and postsecondary programs to validate the critical skills needed in this industry sector. 12/10/2025