Hands-On High TechVeterans build new skills with OSU semiconductor training program.

In a semiconductor training facility lined with soldering stations, Oregon State student and U.S. Army veteran Garret Lacy leaned over a circuit board, experimenting with unfamiliar parts and piecing together a design of his own making. He and the others in his cohort were told only the basics: create a circuit.

And that was the point — to let curiosity drive the work.

“We found parts we’d never seen, asked how they work, tried to implement them into our circuits and just had fun doing it all,” said Lacy, who is majoring in mechanical engineering. “In an expanding electrical world, I think it’s important for any engineer to have this skill.”

According to Lacy, those moments of creativity were highlights of VETS-UP, a veterans’ semiconductor upskilling program. The eight-week paid training opportunity provides access to the facility at Analog Devices, Inc., a global semiconductor leader that bridges the physical and digital worlds.

For most, it’s a first look into a field they see as full of possibility.

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The program at ADI’s Beaverton campus combines classroom learning, hands-on lab exercises and mentorship from industry professionals, offering participants technical and professional skills.

Lacy was one of 11 participants in the first training cohort, all of them veterans, active-duty service members or military dependents who are pursuing STEM degrees at OSU or an Oregon community college. The variety of learning experiences they’re given is designed to excite them about jobs related to semiconductors and robotics.

“I see the semiconductor industry as a place for innovation and growth with many sub-industries that are involved,” Lacy said. “Even if you don’t want to work directly with the manufacturing of chips, you can still be a part of the process in a support role like robotics.”

VETS-UP is the student-centered outcome of a $1 million workforce grant OSU received from the state’s Higher Education Coordinating Commission. Along with a stipend, participants receive housing for the full eight-week training, career services and academic support.

For most, it’s a first look into a field they see as full of possibility. For others, like nuclear engineering major Laurence Heiges, the experience builds on technical skills he honed during his time in the Navy, such as electronics maintenance and control systems logic.

Managing director José J. Garcia says ADI’s 12,000-square-foot facility in Beaverton is perfect for workforce development training, and the company is looking forward to continued collaboration with Oregon State. “The partnership with OSU is like hand in glove,” Garcia said. “We set up the facility for top-skilling, and it’s a great way to get early-career professionals attracted to semiconductors.”

Jessica DuPont, associate vice provost for market development and the student experience in OSU’s Division of Educational Ventures, said VETS-UP aims to fill a gap in Oregon’s workforce and support an important, skilled group of students. “Initiatives like this not only honor the service of our veterans, but also equip them with the tools they need to thrive in the workforce and beyond,” DuPont said.

The success of the first cohort this summer set the stage for two more sessions for veterans in the months ahead.

“Their military service combined with this intensive training will give them an advantage in their career planning, whether through internships or their first job out of college,” said Julie Brandis, executive director of strategic partnerships in the College of Engineering. “ADI is a terrific partner. It’s a company that is very invested in the success of OSU students.”