Temple College Board of Trustees approves initial $2.6 million investment
Temple, Texas – In a significant move to bolster workforce development in the semiconductor industry, Temple College and Texas A&M University-Central Texas (TAMUCT) announce the introduction of the first Roots Education Semiconductor & Advanced Manufacturing Training System in Texas.
This innovative program and cutting-edge technology will be housed in Temple College’s new Visual Arts and Workforce Building, which is currently under construction and is scheduled to open in January. The Temple College Board of Trustees approved an initial $2.6 million investment in the program during its meeting last week.
“The program will equip students and professionals with the essential skills needed to thrive in one of the fastest-growing sectors in the nation,” said DeDe Griffith, Temple College’s Vice President for Workforce Development. “The complete training system and the new degree pathways will be available at Temple College’s main campus in Temple, Texas, and at the Temple College campus in Taylor, Texas, just a few miles from Samsung.”
The semiconductor industry is at the forefront of technological advancement, powering everything from smartphones to electric vehicles. As demand for skilled workers continues to rise, Temple College and TAMUCT aim to bridge the skills gap by providing a comprehensive pathway.
“The new Temple College Semiconductor and Advanced Manufacturing Center will provide the instructional environment that is the first of its kind in Texas,” Griffith said. “The new Temple College and TAMUCT co-designed and co-delivered Semiconductor & Advanced Manufacturing pathway will include industry-recognized credentials, short-term workforce training, a military transition training program, stackable credentials, an associate degree, a bachelor’s degree and beyond. The Center will also serve as a testbed for research.”
The Roots Education specialized training system, secured through Advanced Technology Consultants, includes two major components, the Semiconductor Wafer Processing System housed in a mock clean room and the Medallion Line, a manufacturing line that incorporates integrated robotics, robotics maintenance, metallic 3D printing, CNC production, programmable logic-controlled systems, packaging and logistics.
This initiative is projected to create high-quality job opportunities for Texans and provide a major boost to the semiconductor and advanced manufacturing talent pipeline in Central Texas, Griffith said.
“I am thrilled to witness the bold initiatives being taken by the leadership at Temple College and TAMUCT. Their forward-thinking approach directly addresses the growing demand for skilled professionals in semiconductor and advanced automation fields,” said Jeff Kondel, President of Roots Education. “We at Roots Education are proud to support these efforts with our cutting-edge training technologies. Through our patented Semiconductor Processing System and Medallion Line, we are equipping students and professionals with hands-on, real-world experience needed to thrive in this critical sector. We’re excited to see the lasting impact this will have on both Texas’ workforce and economy.”
“Temple College is excited to partner with Texas A&M University-Central Texas to bring this essential training program to our region,” said Dr. Christy Ponce, President of Temple College. “By investing in education and workforce development, we are not only preparing our students for successful careers but also supporting the economic growth of Central Texas.”
Dr. Richard Rhodes, President of Texas A&M University-Central Texas, said, “The semiconductor industry is crucial for our nation’s technological future. By implementing the Roots Education Semiconductor Training System, we are fostering a new generation of skilled workers who will drive innovation and economic growth in Texas and beyond.”
Enrollment in the new pathway is expected to begin in August 2025.
“This partnership marks a pivotal step in addressing the growing demand for semiconductor professionals and reinforcing Texas’s position as a leader in technology and education,” Griffith said.
About Temple College
Temple College is “Your Community’s College,” a dynamic and growing community college that equips thousands of Central Texas students with the knowledge and skills for 21st-century success. Temple College, which has campuses in Temple, Hutto, Taylor and Rockdale, offers more than 80 degree and certificate programs to students who seek to earn credits for transfer, graduate with an associate degree or complete a certificate for fast entry into the workforce.
Founded in 1926, Temple College has enjoyed a reputation for academic excellence for 98 years. It is nationally recognized for its exceptional programs, from visual and performing arts to competitive athletics. The College has become one of the state’s premiere institutions for healthcare providers’ education and training, advanced manufacturing, and workforce development programs. The faculty and staff are committed to providing exceptional quality instruction.
About Texas A&M University-Central Texas
Texas A&M University-Central Texas was established in 2009 as a member of The Texas A&M University System, one of the largest systems of higher education in the nation. A&M-Central Texas is an upper-level institution, fully aligned with regional community colleges and offering quality bachelor’s and master’s degrees with an emphasis on access and affordability.