CHIPS for America Program Update: Leadership Announcements and Membership Growth

CHIPS for America Program Update: Leadership Announcements and Membership Growth

by | Apr 7, 2025 | Innovation

The National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC) continues to make significant strides in implementing the CHIPS for America program, with two recent developments.

New Leadership at EUV Accelerator

Natcast has appointed Dr. Craig Child as Director of the CHIPS for America EUV Accelerator, an NSTC Facility. This appointment marks a crucial step in advancing America’s semiconductor manufacturing capabilities, particularly in extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography technology.

NSTC Reaches Significant Milestone

The National Semiconductor Technology Center has surpassed 100 members, demonstrating the growing collaboration between industry, academia, and government in strengthening America’s semiconductor ecosystem. This expansion reflects the increasing momentum behind the CHIPS initiative.

Building on Recent Progress

This news builds upon recent developments in semiconductor workforce innovation, as highlighted in our recent coverage of Arizona’s initiatives. As discussed in our March 28th article, higher education institutions are playing a crucial role in developing the skilled workforce needed to support America’s semiconductor manufacturing renaissance.

The Presidents Forum will continue to monitor and report on developments in the CHIPS for America program, particularly as they relate to higher education’s role in workforce development and innovation.

Department of Education Announces Intent to Begin Negotiated Rulemaking on Student Loan Programs

Department of Education Announces Intent to Begin Negotiated Rulemaking on Student Loan Programs

by | Apr 4, 2025 | Policy

The Department of Education has announced its intent to commence negotiated rulemaking on several key student loan programs, including Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF), Pay As You Earn (PAYE), and Income-Contingent Repayment (ICR) plans.

Negotiated rulemaking is a process where the Department works with stakeholders to develop proposed regulations. Through this process, the Department convenes a committee of representatives from interested groups to negotiate the text of proposed regulations, with the goal of reaching consensus on their content.

Key Information:

  • Currently, only a notice of intent has been published. The official Negotiated Rulemaking notice is forthcoming.
  • Once published, there will be a 30-day written comment period for public input.
  • Public hearings are scheduled for:
    • April 29, 2025
    • May 1, 2025

Registration information for the public hearings has not yet been released. The Presidents Forum will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as more information becomes available.

For more information, visit the Department of Education’s Negotiated Rulemaking for Higher Education 2025-2026 page.

April Update

April Update

by | Apr 3, 2025 | Policy

April Update

The big picture:

After March’s federal policy focus, the Forum is pivoting to the theme of “accountable innovation” for April, emphasizing practical solutions in higher education.

Why it matters:

The Presidents Forum is building momentum after productive meetings with Congress and internal strategy sessions focused on student success.

Developing Semiconductor Workforce Imperative to National Security

Developing Semiconductor Workforce Imperative to National Security

by | Mar 28, 2025 | Innovation

Developing Semiconductor Workforce Imperative to National Security

The big picture

Rio Salado College and the University of Arizona are creating a unique ecosystem for semiconductor workforce development, partnering closely with industry to create agile, responsive training programs.

Key Takeaways

  • Stronger Industry Partnerships
    • Monthly meetings with 15 semiconductor companies
    • Direct industry input shapes curriculum development
    • Real-time feedback loop with manufacturers
  • Educational Innovation
    • Flexible, modular learning approach
    • Quick adaptation to industry changes
    • Focus on continuous education

The bottom line

The partnership between Arizona institutions and semiconductor manufacturers represents a new model for workforce development in rapidly evolving industries.