New Boise Facility Furthers Chipmaking Jobs

ABM Industries announced the opening of a new training center in Idaho. The South Boise-based facility is designed to prepare people with no industry experience for work in semiconductor plants, as chipmakers struggle to find enough qualified workers.

According to ABM Executive Darrell McDaniel, experienced engineers spend significant time onboarding a steady stream of replacements. The course aims to lighten this load, with classes at the facility running four days, with 10 students each week, allowing about 500 trainees a year. A comparable ABM program in Austin, Texas, has certified 300 people.

Students first explore a plant through virtual reality, then practice in a simulated clean room while wearing protective gowns. Lessons include tool handling, basic electrical concepts, pneumatic systems, and safety procedures. Following the program, graduates can seek jobs with Micron or other chipmakers statewide and elsewhere.

"People can take one week out of their life and actually change not just the trajectory of their career, but the trajectory for their family," says Ed Marcil, ABM's President of Manufacturing and Distribution.

Demand for chip workers is rising locally and nationally. Micron plans a second Boise plant, and Boise State University is heading a regional workforce education effort. Consulting firm McKinsey estimates the U.S. could be short 127,000 to 157,000 semiconductor workers by 2030.

"By bringing hands-on training and industry-recognized credentials to Boise, ABM is helping build the skilled workforce we need to support innovation, strengthen our economy, and keep Idaho at the forefront of America's semiconductor future," shares Gov. Brad Little in a written statement. "Idaho is a national leader in advanced semiconductor manufacturing, and investments like ABM's Technical Training Center ensure we are preparing Idahoans to fill the good-paying jobs that industry is creating."