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OCC launches programs to prep workforce for Micron

Onondaga Community College

Onondaga Community College is launching new programs to help students get their foot in the door at Micron.

Starting this fall, students at OCC can work toward earning a two-year degree in electromechanical technology. The goal of the program is to provide an understanding of the tech used in advanced manufacturing and to be able to use that knowledge to troubleshoot any issues.

OCC will also offer a one-year certificate in electromechanical technology, too.

Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs Anastasia Urtz said the college has been working closely with representatives from Micron to make sure local students are ready for upcoming jobs.

"I think everyone recognizes that this is an enormous transformational opportunity for our institution and our region, and we're very excited to be a part of it," Urtz said.

Urtz said Micron is planning to have about 2,000 employees in their semiconductor plant. About half of them will be technicians, who can learn those skills while earning a two-year degree. The other half are engineers, who will need at least a four-year degree. Urtz said students will be able to start their engineering degree at OCC before transferring to a four-year school.

She’s hoping by being proactive, OCC can attract a number of new students, whether they’re right out of high school or mid-career looking for opportunities with Micron, or beyond.

"One of the things that we expect to happen all across the region is that other employers will come who are part of the larger supply chain, both for Micron and for other businesses like them, and that means lots and lots of jobs in these technical fields," she said.

Urtz said OCC is also launching other career-focused programs this fall that may help with the arrival of Micron, including construction management, architectural design, and supply chain management.

For more information about the programs, check out OCC’s website, or visit the college’s spring Open House on April 29.

Jessica Cain is a freelance reporter for WRVO, covering issues around central New York. Most recently, Jessica was a package producer at Fox News in New York City, where she worked on major news events, including the 2016 presidential conventions and election. Prior to that, she worked as a reporter and anchor for multiple media outlets in central and northern New York. A Camillus native, Jessica enjoys exploring the outdoors with her daughters, going to the theater, playing the piano, and reading.