APACHE JUNCTION, AZ – Apache Junction high school seniors have been offered an opportunity to participate in a free training program through Grand Canyon University that could lead to employment at TSMC, the semiconductor manufacturer in Phoenix. Superintendent Dr. Robert Pappalardo learned about the program at a leadership conference at TSMC. He announced it at the January 27, 2026 governing board meeting.
The 11-week course begins next week. Students who complete training and are selected after interviews could earn a starting salary of $55,000 per year.
Free College Credit and Job Pipeline for Students
Grand Canyon University will provide the training at no cost to students. Participants can earn 16 hours of college credit while still in high school.
“There’s no charge for them to attend this program,” Pappalardo told the board. “They can earn 16 hours of college credit.”
Classes are expected to meet Monday through Friday from 5:00 to 7:30 p.m.
TSMC Hiring Plans Create Long-Term Opportunity
TSMC plans to hire 100 to 200 people per year for this role. Students who complete training must then interview with TSMC. Those selected will start at $55,000 per year.
Pappalardo emphasized the career advancement potential. “The pitch is that they get in on the ground floor so they can become managers, supervisors, et cetera,” he said.
The high school presented the opportunity to seniors on Monday morning. Interested students must sign an agreement with Grand Canyon University to participate.
TSMC Arizona Investment Drives Workforce Demand
TSMC’s Arizona complex represents one of the largest foreign investments in U.S. manufacturing history. The company has announced plans to invest $165 billion for a “gigafab” cluster in Phoenix. This cluster will include six fabrication plants, two advanced packaging facilities, and a research and development center.
The first fab began high-volume production of four-nanometer chips in late 2024. Construction on the second fab is complete. Meanwhile, a third fab is currently under construction.
TSMC targets production of three-nanometer chips by 2028. Two-nanometer chip production is targeted for the end of the decade.
Program Begins Next Week
Apache Junction seniors interested in the program must sign an agreement with Grand Canyon University. Classes begin next week.
