Austin Community College District’s (ACC) Advanced Manufacturing program received a first-of-its-kind national certification from the National Institute for Industry and Career Advancement (NIICA). The certification program ensures graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce by aligning education and training with the needs of the semiconductor and advanced manufacturing industries. 

“This certification is more than just a seal of approval—it’s a promise to our students and our community,” says Dr. Russell Lowery-Hart, ACC Chancellor. “At ACC, we don’t just train students for jobs. We prepare them for lifelong careers that can transform their futures. This recognition reaffirms that our programs give students the skills, confidence, and opportunity they need to thrive in high-demand industries in Central Texas.”

Certification through NIICA is based on an evaluation that looks at the curriculum and monitors how well it adapts to meet the evolving needs of the semiconductor and advanced manufacturing sectors.

“Manufacturing is evolving rapidly with advances in automation, robotics, and semiconductor production, creating a pressing demand for skilled technicians and engineers. This certification represents ACC’s training for students and local employers,” says Dr. Laura Marmolejo, Dean of Advanced Manufacturing. “This is about building stronger career pathways for our students and securing a skilled workforce to keep Central Texas at the forefront of innovation.”

For students, this certification signals that ACC’s training meets the highest industry standards, providing a clear pathway to in-demand, high-paying careers. For local employers, it ensures a skilled, job-ready workforce capable of meeting the needs of Central Texas’ rapidly growing economy.

What do Advanced Manufacturing workers do?

• Operate and maintain high-tech machinery in production environments.
• Program and troubleshoot automated systems for precision manufacturing.
• Work in cleanroom environments, especially in semiconductor manufacturing.
• Conduct quality control inspections to ensure products meet industry standards.
• Advance into supervisory or engineering roles with additional education and experience.

ACC’s Advanced Manufacturing Program offers programs from a six-week certificate and associate degree all the way to a Bachelor of Applied Technology in Manufacturing Engineering Technology. ACC’s programs include hands-on training in state-of-the-art facilities. The curriculum covers computer-aided design, production processes, quality control, and electronics. Strong partnerships with local employers such as Samsung Semiconductor, Applied Materials, NXP, and more provide students real-world experience and potential employment opportunities.

For more information on ACC’s Advanced Manufacturing and Technology programs, visit austincc.edu/manufacturing.

Tags: Advanced Manufacturing, manufacturing, National Institute for Industry and Career Advancement