Parents

Why Tech, Why Now?

It’s no secret that we’re in a technology boom in our current day and age. New innovations are coming out every day, and the demand for tech skills is higher than ever in the workforce. Semiconductors are often the powerhouse behind many of today’s technologies, and we’re finding new opportunities to bring in young talent into our field. Your child could have the opportunity to be a part of a movement that offers long-term stability, upward mobility, and high starting wages. Hands-on experience can start as early as middle school! The possibilities are endless for your child, and there are so many pathways before them. Whether they want to go to college, trade school, or work straight after graduation, there’s a place for everyone in our field. With our provided resources, you can guide your child toward exciting tech career opportunities for students their age.

The Etch Advantage

So, who is Etch, and how can we help set your child up for a successful tech career? Etch is a statewide initiative in Florida that is backed by industry and education leaders to help advance the semiconductor industry in our state. Our goal is to bring young, new talent into the workforce when they’re ready to begin their careers, promoting innovation and fresh ideas within our state’s industry. To help foster an environment for learning and new talent, our team at Etch connects students with real-world skills, internships, and job opportunities right in their local community. We want students to be able to stay connected with where they grew up or live; many of our students are able to gain experience without leaving home or moving far away!

A Career Pathway for Every Child

We know your child has unique talents and passions, and the semiconductor industry is a great place for their skills to thrive and grow. There are a variety of career pathways in our field, ranging from techy to creative to hands-on work.

Engineering & Design

Is your child quick to find solutions and enjoys creative problem solving? They may be tomorrow’s engineers and designers!

Manufacturing & Production

Perfect for your hands-on learner who is curious about how things work and wants to be part of making it happen.

Research & Development

If your child is always coming up with the next big idea and loves to learn new concepts, guide them towards a career in research and development.

Supply Chain & Logistics

Great for organized minds who enjoy planning, problem-solving, and making systems work efficiently.

Building & Construction

Does your child love building with toys or on online games? Are they ecstatic about a completed project? They’ll love a career in building and construction!

A Career Pathway for Every Child

We know your child has unique talents and passions, and the semiconductor industry is a great place for their skills to thrive and grow. There are a variety of career pathways in our field, ranging from techy to creative to hands-on work.

Engineering & Design

Is your child quick to find solutions and enjoys creative problem solving? They may be tomorrow’s engineers and designers!

Manufacturing & Production

Perfect for your hands-on learner who is curious about how things work and wants to be part of making it happen.

Research & Development

If your child is always coming up with the next big idea and loves to learn new concepts, guide them towards a career in research and development.

Supply Chain & Logistics

Great for organized minds who enjoy planning, problem-solving, and making systems work efficiently.

Building & Construction

Does your child love building with toys or on online games? Are they ecstatic about a completed project? They’ll love a career in building and construction!

Addressing Your Questions & Concerns

Does my child need to go to a 4-year college?

Whether your child can’t wait to go to college or they would prefer to jump right into the workforce, there’s a place for every path in the semiconductor industry. Many positions in our field don’t require a 4-year degree, and your child can gain experience through internships, certifications, or trade school. On the other hand, there are plenty of positions that would benefit from a 4-year degree. Either way, your child can choose the best path for them and end up in a high-wage, successful tech career.

What types of jobs are available?

The semiconductor field offers diverse job opportunities. From engineering positions to lab research to supply chain management to construction jobs, the semiconductor industry is providing a variety of local jobs for incoming talent. If you want to browse positions and internships near you, check out our job network!

Find Local Positions

What's the long-term outlook for the semiconductor industry?

The future of the semiconductor industry is bright. More and more technological advancements are relying on semiconductors, and we’re furthering innovation through AI breakthroughs and quantum research. We’re at the dawn of the golden age for semiconductors, allowing your child to have a stable, bright career if they work in the field.

What can we be doing outside of school hours to prepare for a career in the semiconductor industry?

Etch hosts events throughout the states, so young students can engage with the industry and learn more about the possibilities. These are a great way to help prepare your child for a career outside of our school programs. For high school and college students, we also have a network of internships that can be a great way to gain work experience while completing their education!

How early should my child start thinking about careers?

Every child is different and may not be ready to start thinking about a long-term career at a young age. But you know your child best. If your child is curious about potential options, we have programs and initiatives for students as young as middle school. Our middle school programs are also designed to be fun and exciting, so it may also be a great opportunity for a more hesitant student who needs a gentle push in the right direction! Luckily, the semiconductor industry is open to everyone, and anyone, at any age, can start their journey in a tech career.

Support Your Student’s Future with Etch