The Orlando–Kissimmee–Sanford region ranks in the top quartile nationally for both the size of its microelectronics workforce and its recent growth. The region’s strong educational attainment, rapid training expansion, and long-standing aerospace and technology legacy position it well for federal semiconductor investments.

Workforce Snapshot

• 10,913 workers in microelectronics-related roles
• 28.6 percent workforce growth from 2020 to 2023
• 2,141 completions in 2023 across certificates and degrees
• 18 percent earned an associate’s degree
• 823 pre-baccalaureate certificates completed

A Region Built on Technology and Federal Partnerships

Orlando’s rise comes from decades of activity tied to NASA, the Kennedy Space Center, and a concentration of aerospace and communications companies. These industries rely heavily on advanced electronics and are supported by a robust training and university ecosystem.

This historical base created an environment where federal semiconductor investments can scale quickly.

Training Growth Accelerating Across Institutions

The region has seen a seven-fold increase in pre-baccalaureate microelectronics certificates since 2015.

In 2023, the region awarded 2,141 completions, up from 1,416 in 2015, with large increases in associate’s degrees, pre-baccalaureate certificates, and bachelor’s degrees.

Training expansion is widespread across institutions.

Between 2020 and 2023:

• Nearly every institution increased completions
• Full Sail University grew certificate completions by more than 500 percent
• Valencia College, Seminole State, Osceola Technical College, and others scaled microelectronics and technician programs

A Strong Network Powering the Talent Pipeline

The region’s progress is driven by collaboration among economic development organizations, universities, and technical colleges.

Key partners include:

• Orlando Economic Partnership
• Florida High Tech Corridor
• BRIDG / NeoCity
• University of Central Florida
• University of Florida
• University of South Florida
• Valencia College
• Seminole State College of Florida

This alignment has allowed the region to secure major federal wins, including a Build Back Better Regional Challenge award and an NSF Engine centered on NeoCity. Combined, regional initiatives have attracted over $500 million in federal and state funding.

Why Orlando Stands Out

Orlando’s success comes from:

• A large and fast-growing microelectronics workforce
• A rapidly scaling training pipeline
• Deep alignment across industry, higher education, and economic development
• Access to major federal and state investment opportunities