Education

UF’s PATHS program trains autistic adults for semiconductor careers using VR

The University of Florida has launched a certificate program called PATHS that prepares neurodivergent adults for careers in semiconductor manufacturing using virtual reality, hands-on cleanroom training, and one-on-one mentoring with industry professionals. The inaugural spring 2026 class enrolled 16 students from across the country, with the goal of converting internships into full-time employment. The National Science Foundation-funded initiative is driven partly by a national shortage of semiconductor workers and the fact that up to 85% of neurodivergent adults are unemployed or underemployed.

Sources: UF News