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Jefferson Community College Awarded $750,000 from
Micron to Launch Semiconductor Workforce Training
Published: April 02, 2026 at
08:30 a.m.
By: Press Release
from Jefferson Community College
Jefferson Community College Awarded $750,000 from
Micron to Launch Semiconductor Workforce Training
Watertown, N.Y. - Jefferson
Community College (JCC) has been awarded $750,000 from
Micron Technology to support the development of new academic programming
and workforce training opportunities in the rapidly growing semiconductor
industry. The funding will help position Jefferson as a key regional
partner in preparing students for high-demand careers tied to Micron’s
historic investment in New York State.
Beginning in Fall
2027, Jefferson anticipates launching new academic programming in
mechatronics designed to prepare students for immediate employment in
semiconductor and advanced manufacturing fields. As part of this effort,
the college will relocate and expand its computer science/cybersecurity
programming into the newly renovated Dulles Building, creating a dedicated
space equipped with industry-relevant tools and technologies.
The initiative
will also feature pre-program “bootcamps” to introduce students to the
semiconductor industry, including hands-on experience with equipment and
foundational technical skills. These early training opportunities are
designed to build confidence and readiness before students formally begin
their degree programs.
“This investment
from Micron represents a transformative opportunity for Jefferson and the
North Country,” said Dr. Daniel J. Dupee, II, President. “By aligning our
programs with emerging workforce needs, we are creating clear, accessible
pathways for our students particularly those with military connections to
enter high-demand careers. This initiative strengthens our region’s economy
while ensuring our graduates are prepared to succeed in a rapidly evolving
industry. We are also grateful to Governor Hochul for her leadership in
advancing the Green CHIPS program, which helped bring Micron’s investment
to New York and made opportunities like this possible.”
David Males, JCC
Board of Trustees Chair, states, “This investment not only solidifies
Jefferson Community College’s role in higher education but also in
workforce development, which is a key component of our strategic planning
and long-term development.” Mr. Males also serves as Chair of the
Communications Committee for New York Community College Trustees (NYCCT).
He adds, “The ripple effect Micron is having across our entire state is
especially transforming for Community Colleges.”
Jefferson’s
programs will emphasize both access and workforce impact. Approximately 50
percent of seats will be reserved for military and military-affiliated
students, reflecting the College’s longstanding commitment to serving the
Fort Drum community. Currently, 32 percent of Jefferson’s enrollment is
comprised of military and military-affiliated students. The college is also
recognized as a 2026 Military Friendly® and
Military Spouse Friendly® school as well as a 2025 Best for Vets
school.
The Micron award
complements additional investments through the Next Move New York
initiative, as well as support from Jefferson County toward capital
improvements and workforce training. Together, these efforts aim to
strengthen the local talent pipeline and support economic growth across the
region.
Each month,
approximately 300 service members transition out of the military at Fort
Drum, with roughly one-third choosing to remain in the area. Jefferson’s
new programs will be designed to provide those individuals, and local residents, with viable, in-demand career
opportunities that encourage them to live and work in the North Country.
Jefferson will
also partner with regional BOCES programs to create early college
opportunities, allowing high school students to begin building skills and
credentials aligned with semiconductor careers.
With plans to
enroll two initial cohorts and potential for future expansion, Jefferson’s
mechatronics programming represents a significant step forward in the
college’s academic offerings and its role in supporting regional workforce
development.
For more
information about Jefferson Community College and its programs, visit www.sunyjefferson.edu.
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About Jefferson
Community College
Established on
November 7, 1961, Jefferson Community College was the area’s first
institution of higher education. Supervised by the State University of New
York (SUNY), Jefferson offers more than 50 associate degrees, certificates,
and microcredentials for career preparation and
transfer. The college also provides local access to bachelor’s and advanced
degrees through partner institutions; lifelong learning through workshops
and seminars; business and industry training; community-based research;
forums for the productive discussion of ideas and regional issues through
the Center for Community Studies; and cultural enrichment opportunities
that serve the entire tri-county region—Fort Drum’s military installation
among them. Jefferson, accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher
Education, currently serves approximately 2,400 students, many of whom are
service members and their families. Visit www.sunyjefferson.edu for
more information.
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