YOUNGSTOWN — Eastern Gateway Community College is part of a collaborative effort involving 16 community colleges and technical schools in Ohio to develop semiconductor education and workforce programs for tech giant Intel.

As part of the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Incubator Network, EGCC will provide workforce and career accelerator training courses as a gateway to in-demand fields.

The effort is part of a $17.7 million investment Intel will make over the next three years to colleges and universities in the state to create semiconductor-focused education and workforce programs.

Intel made the announcement on the funding ­ part of its $50 million pledge over 10 years ­ on Friday before it broke ground on a leading-edge $20 billion computer chip factory in New Albany.

EGCC has been working with the other schools in the group and Intel and Dell Technologies to provide area and regional students training and job opportunities.

The funding is intended to help bridge semiconductor manufacturing workforce shortages and technical challenges to develop new capabilities in making chips.

“EGCC will be developing AI labs, with guidance from Dell Technologies, which will be in-person, online, or hybrid options. Dell will work with EGCC on career skills and employability for AI-related careers. We will continue to respond to our local workforce demands to create growth opportunities for our students,” said Arthur Daly, EGCC senior vice president and chief development officer.

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