WASHINGTON, D.C., June 26, 2025 — Natcast, the purpose-built, non-profit entity designated by the Department of Commerce to operate the National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC) established by the CHIPS and Science Act, today announced the launch of the NSTC Top Workforce Solutions program. The latest initiative under the NSTC Workforce Center of Excellence (WCoE), this annual recognition program complements the recently announced 2025 NSTC Workforce Awards by evaluating and showcasing highly effective programs that strengthen the semiconductor workforce in the United States. By increasing the visibility of exemplary initiatives, this program will encourage investment in and facilitate the broader adoption of training, education, and workforce programs that effectively build the pool of talent required to support the growth and global competitiveness of the U.S. semiconductor industry.
“The success of the U.S. semiconductor industry depends on our ability to grow and sustain a world-class domestic workforce,” said John D. Ratliff, Executive Director of the NSTC Workforce Center of Excellence and Vice President at Natcast. “The NSTC Top Workforce Solutions program provides us with a new tool in this effort by shining a light on programs that are proven to effectively prepare Americans for highly skilled, in-demand jobs in the U.S. semiconductor industry, ultimately driving broader adoption and critical investment.”
In its first year, the pilot program will recognize certificate programs offered by community colleges or technical training providers that prepare participants for technician roles. Eligible applicants include universities, colleges, community colleges, career and technical colleges, workforce development organizations, regional training centers, and other providers of relevant technician training.
Recognized programs will receive a digital badge that can be displayed on their website and in promotional materials, which will enhance program appeal for students seeking reputable educational opportunities. Programs will also enjoy increased national visibility through promotion on the Natcast website and in NSTC and WCoE resources and publications, which will help broaden and attract program partnership opportunities. This year’s pilot program is part of a phased approach, with additional workforce segments and training format iterations to be incorporated annually.
“In order to close the critical skills and workforce gaps that the U.S. semiconductor industry currently faces, we must recognize, promote, and scale what works, which is our goal with the NSTC Top Workforce Solutions program,” said Lexie Waugh, Director, Workforce Grants and Recognition, at Natcast. “Through the pilot program and future expansion, we will ensure that effective, employer-driven workforce development initiatives receive the visibility, recognition, and support they need to scale, providing more students and workers across America with access to high-quality training to enter or advance their career in this vital industry.”
Natcast is accepting applications for the 2025 NSTC Top Workforce Solutions program through August 25, 2025. Applicants will be evaluated for recognition using criteria designed to assess program effectiveness, including quality of program design, industry alignment, program capacity, employment outcomes, learner outcomes, and program cost. Selection notifications will be made this winter.
For more information on the program’s eligibility requirements and to apply, visit natcast.org/workforce/solutions. Natcast is also holding a webinar on July 9, 2025, to provide an in-depth overview of both the NSTC Workforce Awards and the NSTC Top Workforce Solutions programs. To register, visit natcast.org/webinar-2025-workforce-awards-programs.