On Friday, February 7, 2025 students in the very first Elevate Careers: Semiconductor Manufacturing cohort graduated at Mt. Hood Community College.

Funded in part by a Future Ready Oregon grant, Elevate Careers is modeled off the successful Quick Start to Semiconductor program that Worksystems developed in Washington County. This is the first program of its kind in Multnomah County.

“This was the largest 2-week paid semiconductor training program in Multnomah County. What a feather in East Portland’s cap,” said Mancin Boyd, Senior Project Manager and Elevate program lead for Worksystems.

Over the course of two weeks, students gained firsthand experience in what it takes to secure an entry-level job in the semiconductor industry. They engaged in technical and hands-on training while also building essential skills like resume writing. Elevate Career’s semiconductor partners—Microchip and onsemi—took learning beyond the classroom, hosting students at their facilities and conducting one-on-one interviews to prepare them for real-world opportunities.

“This program was a longtime in the making, and finally all the pieces fell into place,” said Dr. Skari, MHCC president. “It was designed to be rigorous, fast-paced and industry-focused. The need for a highly skilled workforce in this field has never been greater.”

An impressive 22 students graduated from the program, each receiving a $500 stipend for their time. Some will choose to enter the workforce immediately, while others may continue their higher education studies at MHCC. Nine graduates have already received hire offers.

Worksystems would like to thank the following partners for their dedication and collaboration in making Elevate Careers: Semiconductor Manufacturing a resounding success!

• Mt. Hood Community College: Dr. Lisa Skari, Kori Kajitsu, Charlotte Lehde and Stephanie Petersen
• Microchip: Lynn Stephan and Carly Petrovic
• onsemi: Molly Rex and Cheryl Cruz

There will be two more cohorts in Elevate Careers, the next slated for late spring or summer.

Photos courtesy of Nell Hart, Mt. Hood Community College