Micron Opens State-of-the-Art Training Center in Boise to Strengthen America’s Semiconductor Workforce

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Micron Technology Inc., the only U.S.-based manufacturer of memory and storage solutions, opened a 60,000-square-foot Micron Training Center (MTC) in Boise, a strategic investment to strengthen the skilled talent pipeline, support advanced semiconductor manufacturing and expand education and apprenticeship pathways in Idaho.

Located near Micron’s Boise campus, this unique, collaborative training facility accelerates new-hire readiness through an intensive onboarding boot camp and hands-on training in fab operations and manufacturing systems. The center also serves as a site for community college students and career seekers pursuing semiconductor pathways through the College of Western Idaho (CWI).

The MTC supports Micron’s broader commitment to invest more than $250 billion in U.S. semiconductor manufacturing, building the workforce needed to support high-volume production of advanced memory technologies. Those efforts are expected to create more than 90,000 American jobs.

“Our community invests in our people, and the Micron Training Center is proof of that promise. This center is built to skill up the next generation of Idahoans, whether they’re just starting out or making a career pivot,” said Boise Mayor Lauren McLean. “With strong partners standing beside us, we’re filling today’s jobs and preparing our workforce for the future. That’s what it means to build a city where everyone has the opportunity to grow right here at home.”

Strategic collaboration and unique approach for workforce development

The MTC houses up to 20 semiconductor process tools that replicate a fab environment — the same equipment trainees will use on Micron’s fab floor. Industry partners including Applied Materials, Lam Research, SCREEN, Kokusai Electric, Tokyo Electron and others have supported the installation of equipment that will also be used for hands-on vendor training, helping both their teams and Micron’s ramp up faster on the tools that drive production.

The center also expands Micron’s long-standing partnership with CWI to bring semiconductor training directly into the education pipeline. Starting this fall, CWI will deliver its Advanced Mechatronics Engineering Technology (AMET) and Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology (SMT) programs at the MTC, alongside its Nampa campus offerings. The MTC will serve as the new location for the technical instruction component of Micron’s Registered Apprenticeship Program, while continuing to host CWI coursework for the broader student community.

To support this partnership, Micron and the U.S. Department of Commerce have provided $3 million to CWI for educator pay, equipment and classroom space.

“CWI and Micron have built a training environment where students learn on the same equipment they’ll operate in a world-class fab,” said Gordon Jones, president of the College of Western Idaho. “This is what a decade of partnership looks like — a shared facility, tools, and commitment to building careers that matter for Idaho.”

“A strong semiconductor industry depends on a strong talent pipeline,” said April Arnzen, executive vice president and chief people officer, Micron Technology. “The Micron Training Center is a strategic investment in workforce development, helping build the skilled talent needed to support advanced manufacturing and sustain U.S. leadership in semiconductor innovation. By combining state-of-the-art facilities with degree programs, certifications, apprenticeships and clear career pathways, we are creating opportunities for Idahoans while strengthening the workforce that will power Micron’s growth and the future of the industry.”

“America’s ability to lead the world in semiconductor manufacturing depends on building a highly skilled workforce ready to support the factories and technologies of the future,” said Bill Frauenhofer, executive director of semiconductor investment & innovation at the U.S. Department of Commerce. “Micron’s new Boise training center is an example of what is possible when federal investment, private-sector leadership, and education partners work together to meet that challenge. As Micron executes on its more than $250 billion commitment to U.S. manufacturing and R&D, the CHIPS Program Office is proud to support Micron’s new training center and help build the talent pipeline needed to create meaningful pathways into essential careers, strengthen our domestic talent pipeline, and ensure this country remains at the forefront of innovation and advanced manufacturing.”

“Micron’s training center and their investment in apprenticeships and career pathways are helping keep Idaho’s workforce and economy at the forefront. This exciting announcement builds on the investments we’ve made to strengthen Idaho’s workforce, including Idaho LAUNCH. Together, we’re helping Idahoans gain the skills and training they need to succeed in high-demand careers. We challenged Idaho employers to step up and partner with us, and Micron has answered that call,” Governor Brad Little said.

At today’s event, Micron celebrated Cohort 6 of its registered apprenticeship program — its largest Boise cohort to date and is building toward triple-digit enrollment by the end of fiscal year 2027. Developed with CWI and the Idaho Manufacturing Alliance, the earn-and-learn model directly supports Gov. Brad Little’s goal to double Idaho’s registered apprentices statewide by 2029.