The Florida Semiconductor Engine Partners with The Florida Semiconductor Institute to Strengthen Workforce Development In Florida

September 1, 2026

The U.S. National Science Foundation Florida Semiconductor Engine (FSE) and the Florida Semiconductor Institute (FSI) are launching a Request for Proposals (RFP) inviting education partners across all 23 counties in the FSE region of service to create, expand, and enhance semiconductor workforce development programs that strengthen Florida’s economy. Opening on September 1, 2026, with submissions due by October 16, 2026, the RFP will prioritize hands-on, industry-informed programs, including new academic pathways, recruitment initiatives, internships, and other work-based learning opportunities designed to prepare the next generation of Florida’s semiconductor workforce.

All awards issued under this RFP are structured as one-year contracts of up to 12 months, with individual funding capped at $100,000 and partner awards capped at $175,000. Applicants must identify the workforce level and target audience their project serves. Interested applicants can find full RFP details and application information here: https://semiconductorengine.org/fse-workforce-development-request-for-proposals/

“This RFP is an invitation for education partners to become active builders of Florida’s semiconductor ecosystem. By connecting classrooms directly to industry needs, through hands-on training, internships, and applied learning, we’re not just preparing students for jobs; we’re strengthening the talent pipeline that will sustain semiconductor innovation in this state for decades to come,” said Dr. Ronald F. Piccolo, CEO, Florida Semiconductor Engine

“This RFP represents a unique and exciting opportunity to support a wide range of novel semiconductor-industry-driven workforce initiatives led by our partners in education and the broader ecosystem. Building a robust talent pipeline requires both innovation and successful teaming to inspire the next generation of trainees, expand educational opportunities, and prepare a highly skilled workforce to support the continued growth of Florida’s semiconductor industry,” saud Dr. Jack Judy, Deputy Director of Workforce Development, Florida Semiconductor Institute

The Florida Semiconductor Institute serves as the statewide hub for research, development, and workforce initiatives in semiconductor technologies. It is dedicated to making Florida a global leader in specialty electronics, focusing on emerging materials, chip design, process development, microsystems, heterogeneous integration, advanced packaging, and cybersecurity to meet growing industry demands.

The U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) Florida Semiconductor Engine aims to transform the U.S. semiconductor industry through advanced and specialty packaging by fostering collaborative research and translational innovations, developing a world-class technical workforce, and driving regional economic prosperity.