edfas.org ELECTRONIC DEVICE FAILURE ANALYSIS | VOLUME 28 NO. 3 26 LEADING THE CHARGE IN BUILDING TODAY’S MICROELECTRONICS WORKFORCE Errol Flynn Midwest Microelectronics Consortium (MMEC), Beavercreek, Ohio eflynn@mmeconsortium.org EDFAAO (2026) 3:26-28 1537-0755/$19.00 ©ASM International® INTRODUCTION The microelectronics industry is one of the most powerful engines driving technological advancement, economic growth, and national security. It powers nearly every aspect of modern life—smartphones, cars, the internet, medical devices, artificial intelligence systems, and satellites just to name a few. It is also at the center of a global technology race. Nations are investing billions to secure leadership in semiconductors and related technologies. Yet the U.S., at one time the undisputed leader in semiconductor manufacturing, has seen its share of global production decline over the past three decades. The U.S. has responded with initiatives, such as the CHIPS and Science Act, to rebuild domestic manufacturing capacity, strengthen research, and reduce dependence on vulnerable supply chains. But technology alone isn’t enough. To lead in microelectronics, we must also lead in talent, and that is one of the biggest challenges. The estimated numbers are sobering: • The U.S. semiconductor industry will need tens of thousands of new skilled workers in the next decade. • Many experienced professionals are nearing retirement, and replacing their decades of expertise will take time and training. In just a few short years, the MMEC has delivered measurable national impact through an ecosystem that rapidly connects innovation, expertise, tools, and talent to mission needs.
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