Semiconductor Manufacturing Internship at the Silicon Carbide Innovation Alliance (SCIA)

STRIVE is a 14-week SkillBridge internship hosted at Penn State’s Silicon Carbide Innovation Alliance (SCIA). It trains veterans in semiconductor crystal growth, wafer processing, and quality control, offering hands-on experience aligned with the CHIPS Act and national security needs.

ABOUT THE JOB

Interns will operate semiconductor manufacturing equipment, conduct materials analysis using advanced tools (XRD, SEM, Raman), and participate in workforce development projects related to the semiconductor supply chain.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Operate semiconductor manufacturing equipment
• Conduct materials analysis using advanced tools such as XRD, SEM, Raman
• Participate in workforce development projects related to the semiconductor supply chain

QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or GED required
• Some college coursework in STEM fields (desired, but not required)
• Basic Computer Proficiency: Ability to use email, simple spreadsheets, and web-based learning tools
• Interest in advanced manufacturing, semiconductors, or materials science
• Ability to follow technical procedures and work in a hands-on laboratory/factory environment
• Willingness to engage in physical tasks (e.g., operating machinery, wafer handling, lifting up to 35 lbs)
• Strong work ethic, attention to detail, and ability to work in a team
• Commitment to complete the 2–4 month training program
• Willingness to engage in resume building, mock interviews, and career coaching as part of the program

ADDITIONAL ELIGIBILITY

Education:o High school diploma or GED requiredo Some college coursework in STEM fields (desired, but not required)Recommended Technical Background (Preferred but Not Required):o Basic Computer Proficiency: Ability to use email, simple spreadsheets, and web-based learning tools.o Electronics or mechanical systems maintenanceo Aviation, radar, or power systems repair (as reflected in MOCs)o Prior training in basic safety (e.g., OSHA 10-hour or equivalent) is a plus.Aptitude and Interest:o Interest in advanced manufacturing, semiconductors, or materials scienceo Ability to follow technical procedures and work in a hands-on laboratory/factory environmento Willingness to engage in physical tasks (e.g., operating machinery, wafer handling, lifting up to 35 lbs)Soft Skills and Commitment:o Strong work ethic, attention to detail, and ability to work in a teamo Commitment to complete the 2–4 month training programo Willingness to engage in resume building, mock interviews, and career coaching as part of the program

BENEFITS

• Training in semiconductor crystal growth, wafer processing, and quality control
• Hands-on experience aligned with the CHIPS Act and national security needs

OTHER

The internship is hosted in the only open-access SiC crystal manufacturing and training center in the U.S. The focus is on transitioning veterans into high-tech roles in advanced manufacturing. If you are interested in being considered for this SkillBridge Internship opportunity at Penn State University, please complete this interest form for service members: https://forms.office.com/r/SMbv7jfM05