A new $500,000 National Science Foundation grant will help three Alabama community colleges prepare more students for careers in the growing semiconductor industry. The funding will support a three-year collaboration focused on expanding STEM education and creating pathways into advanced technology careers.

Drake State Community & Technical College will lead the initiative in partnership with Lawson State Community College and Trenholm State Community College. The project, known as SEED, will run from Oct. 1, 2026, through Sept. 30, 2029.

Semiconductor chips power everything from smartphones and vehicles to medical equipment and defense systems. The industry includes workers who design, manufacture, test and maintain those tiny components, making it one of the nation’s fastest-growing technology fields.

The three historically Black community colleges will work together to introduce more students to science, technology, engineering and mathematics while creating new pathways into semiconductor manufacturing and other advanced technology careers. The initiative also will strengthen STEM programs and connect students with career opportunities in an industry expected to continue growing in Alabama and across the country.

“This award reflects a shared commitment among our institutions to broaden participation in STEM education and create transformative opportunities for students,” Drake State President Patricia Sims said.

“Through collaboration, innovation, and a focus on student success, we are positioning our students to thrive in the high-demand careers that will shape the future economy.”

Lawson State President Cynthia Anthony said the partnership will provide students with the technical skills, industry exposure and professional connections needed to pursue careers in the semiconductor and advanced technology industries.

Trenholm State President Kemba Chambers said the collaboration also will expand access to STEM education for students.

“By collaborating with fellow Historically Black Community Colleges, we are broadening participation in STEM fields and ensuring that talented students from our communities have access to emerging opportunities in the semiconductor industry,” Chambers said.

The grant supports the Semiconductor Exposure, Exploration and Development (SEED): Collaborative to Broaden Participation in STEM Education, an initiative designed to encourage student engagement, career exploration and workforce development while helping the colleges align their programs with the needs of semiconductor and advanced manufacturing employers.

The grant will support the partnership through September 2029 as the three colleges work to expand STEM education and create new pathways into semiconductor manufacturing and other advanced technology careers.

Sherri Blevins is a reporter for 256 Today.

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