Article: LCJVS Steps Up to the CHIPS Challenge

LCJVS Steps Up to the CHIPS Challenge

Lorain County JVS Steps Up to the CHIPS Challenge: Building Ohio's Semiconductor Talent Pipeline

Lorain County JVS is proud to announce its submission to the CHIPS Challenge, a transformative initiative aimed at bolstering the semiconductor industry in Ohio and nationwide. With an unwavering commitment to innovation and inclusivity, Lorain County JVS’s proposal leverages Ohio's robust CHIPS and MEMS ecosystem to create pathways for diverse, underrepresented talent.

Addressing Ohio’s Semiconductor Workforce Needs

Ohio has rapidly positioned itself as a national leader in semiconductor manufacturing, driven by programs like Intel's Semiconductor Education and Research Program (SERP) and statewide partnerships facilitated by Ohio TechNet. The state’s ecosystem includes over 91 employers engaged in workforce development, 238 semiconductor job placements, and comprehensive MEMS Earn-and-Learn models. Lorain County JVS builds on this momentum, collaborating with Lorain County Community College (LCCC), Cuyahoga Community College, and its Adult Career Center to strengthen high school-to-postsecondary pathways.

As Tracy A. Green, Vice President of Strategic and Institutional Development at LCCC, emphasized, "This initiative integrates a hands-on, earn-and-learn model that directly addresses the needs of industry while preparing students for high-demand careers. The CHIPS Challenge enables us to expand pathways that combine education with real-world experience".

Expanding Opportunities for All

Lorain County JVS’s proposal is intentionally designed to engage underrepresented groups, including women of color, justice-impacted individuals, rural students, and other marginalized populations. Key initiatives include:

Curriculum Development: New training programs focused on semiconductor fabrication, cleanroom maintenance, and safety.

Experiential Learning: Internships, apprenticeships, and mentorship opportunities with leading employers in Ohio’s semiconductor sector.

Industry Credentials: Collaboration with the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association (OMA) to integrate semiconductor-specific credentials into training.

Jessica Borza, Managing Director of Workforce Services at OMA, noted, "Lorain County JVS’s program aligns seamlessly with Ohio’s semiconductor competency model, creating a sustainable pipeline of skilled talent. This collaboration exemplifies how education and industry can partner to meet critical workforce needs”.

A Collective Effort Backed by Key Supporters

The strength of Lorain County JVS’s submission is bolstered by letters of support from regional leaders. The Ohio Manufacturers’ Association, Greater Cleveland Partnership, and Lorain County Community College all underscore the initiative’s alignment with statewide workforce development strategies and its potential to catalyze economic growth.

Gina Cheverine, Senior Vice President for Strategic Development, Greater Cleveland Partnership, shared, "This project represents a unique opportunity to position Ohio as a leader in the semiconductor industry while creating equitable opportunities for Greater Cleveland students. We are proud to support Lorain County JVS in this critical endeavor".

Fueling Ohio’s Economic Growth

Lorain County JVS’s submission aligns with Ohio's broader economic development efforts to grow the advanced manufacturing sector. By expanding education, training, and job placement in semiconductor manufacturing, this initiative not only addresses workforce shortages but also accelerates regional economic development. Ohio’s microelectronics ecosystem, supported by partnerships with the Midwest Microelectronics Consortium and programs like MEMS cleanroom training, ensures that students receive cutting-edge education.

As Tracy A. Green, Vice President of Strategic and Institutional Development, stated, "This initiative will enable students to access high-quality training and meaningful career opportunities, empowering them to thrive in Ohio’s fast-growing semiconductor industry."

Building a Brighter Future

With the CHIPS Challenge, Lorain County JVS is poised to lead a transformative effort that addresses the workforce needs of the semiconductor sector while creating equitable access to high-wage, high-growth careers. By leveraging Ohio's thriving ecosystem and fostering collaboration across education, industry, and government, Lorain County JVS is helping to build a brighter future for students and

the state.

For more information about Lorain County JVS’s programs and initiatives, visit Lorain County JVS.

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