Vet S.T.E.P. (Semiconductor Training & Experience Program) - Hands-on training & Internship Program
Internship All branchesDefense Industrial BaseNational Security
Website provided by the program.
At a glance
- Open to
- All branches
- Format
- In person
- Length
- Duration not listed
- Locations
- 9 locations in California, North Carolina, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon…
- Job locations
- Arizona, Massachusetts, Minnesota, North Carolina, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Texas, Virginia, Vermont
- Career field
- Installation, Maintenance, and Repair, Production
- Target MOS/ratings
- This program seeks those with hands on technical experience, or military occupational specialties with electrical, mechanical, aviation, maintenance, electronics, or other technician backgrounds.
About the program
Launched in 2022 with multiple cohorts throughout the year, Vet S.T.E.P. (Veteran Semiconductor Training & Experience Program), funded by the New York Center for Research, Economic Advancement, Technology, Engineering, & Science (NY CREATES) and the Northeast Regional Defense Technology Hub (NORDTECH), builds a robust pipeline of skilled, disciplined talent for New York and the U.S' expanding microelectronics ecosystem, while supporting veterans’ meaningful transition to stable, high‑tech civilian careers. Hosted and managed by an experienced NY CREATES team, this 10‑week, no‑cost training internship program equips transitioning service members and military veterans with in-demand technical skills and hands-on experience necessary for careers in the semiconductor industry. The program begins with two weeks of classroom instruction at the state‑of‑the‑art NY CREATES Albany NanoTech Complex, covering key areas such as semiconductor manufacturing practices, basic AC/DC and electronics, vacuum systems, sensors, and diagnostics and troubleshooting. Following training, participants engage in an eight‑week immersive internship with NY CREATES’ industry partner companies across the country, especially upstate New York, where they gain real‑world experience in roles supporting manufacturing operations.
Jobs this program prepares you for
Manufacturing Technicians, Field Service Technicians, Equipment Technicians, Automation Technicians, Industrial Facilities Technicians: Program graduates will be placed into intern roles, depending on program partnerships and available internship collaborations. The training is targeted at E-3 through E-6, (but others may apply), to fill roles in process, supply chain, operations, applications, R&D, S&M, test, field service, installation, repair and maintenance, packaging, semiconductor manufacturing, verification, and integration, as either a technician or engineer.
Eligibility & prerequisites
High school diploma/GED, but no formal degree required; transitioning service members eligible under DOD SkillBridge/Career Skills Program. Military veterans and active-duty spouses can also qualify on a case-by-case basis for the 2-week hands-on training.
Candidates must be active-duty service members in last 180 days of service under DOD SkillBridge Career Skills Program or veterans with the ability to relocate to Albany, NY, for on-site training; physically able to conduct technical training and background check clearable* for access to fabrication facilities. If you have pending litigation, we need to discuss how it would impact your training. Usually, you must be eligible to be approved by your (O-4) Major or LCDR or higher for the full program. *Security Clearances are helpful, but not necessary for most roles.
Locations & contacts
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- Freemont, CA 94539Dan Cochrandcochran@ny-creates.org
- Durham, NC 27703Dan Cochrandcochran@ny-creates.org
- Ewing, NJ 08618Dan Cochrandcochran@ny-creates.org
- Albuquerque, NM 87124Dan Cochrandcochran@ny-creates.org
- Albany, NY 12203Dan Cochrandcochran@ny-creates.org
- Utica, NY 13501Dan Cochrandcochran@ny-creates.org
- Hillsboro, OR 97124Dan Cochrandcochran@ny-creates.org
- Austin, TX 78746Dan Cochrandcochran@ny-creates.org
- Essex Junction, VT 05452Dan Cochrandcochran@ny-creates.org
How to apply
- Contact the provider using the website or email above. Ask about openings, start dates, and the application.
- Confirm eligibility. SkillBridge is generally for service members within 180 days of separation who have their command's approval.
- Get your unit commander's authorization following your branch's SkillBridge process. Start early; approvals take time.
- Read reviews from past participants on Rate My SkillBridge.
Policy details: official DoW SkillBridge site · our FAQ