Syracuse University has launched Q-SUCCEED-CNY, a workforce development initiative designed to help adult learners in the Central New York region explore and transition into careers in semiconductor, photonics, and emerging quantum technologies.
The program’s full name – Quantum and Semiconductor Upskilling for Career Change through Experiential Education Deployment in Central New York – reflects its core mission: providing accessible, hands-on pathways into some of the region’s fastest-growing industries.
Addressing a Critical Workforce Gap
As historic investments reshape Central New York’s economic landscape – most notably Micron Technology’s major expansion in North Syracuse, which is expected to generate thousands of high-tech jobs – many local workers remain unaware of the career opportunities available to them or lack access to the relevant training needed to pursue them. Q-SUCCEED-CNY was created to bridge that gap.
The program specifically targets adult learners who may not have considered careers in the technology sector, including blue-collar workers, mid-career non-technical professionals, veterans, and individuals without prior STEM backgrounds. Through industry-aligned workshops, career exploration activities, and hands-on experiential learning, participants gain the foundational technical skills, confidence, and industry connections needed to enter these rapidly growing fields.
“Through this project, we raise awareness about the impact of emerging technologies on our local community with the hope of inspiring more community members to pursue careers in emerging tech sector,” says Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Professor Mo Hasanovic. “We are trying to tap into a larger community that has no prior technical background and awareness of this field, not those community members who already have tech background or who have already decided to pursue tech careers.”
Program Structure and Support
Q-SUCCEED-CNY offers structured exposure to semiconductor, optics, and quantum technology careers through a combination of educational programming and direct industry engagement. Upon successful completion of the program, participants receive a $2,400 stipend.
The initiative is led by a multidisciplinary team at Syracuse University:
- Professor Moamer Hasanovic, Principal Investigator, brings expertise in quantum computing and semiconductor education.
- Professor Ethan Arnault, Co-Principal Investigator and Assistant Professor of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, specializes in superconducting devices, quantum technology, and quantum sensing.
- Professor Alex K. Jones, Co-Principal Investigator and Klaus Schroder Endowed Professor, serves as Chair of the Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Department.
- Anusha Ghimire, Project Coordinator, oversees program operations, participant engagement, and coordination with community partners.
Community Partnerships
Q-SUCCEED-CNY is supported by a broad network of affiliated organizations committed to regional workforce development, including Micron, Onondaga Community College, Syracuse City School District Adult Education, Westcott Community Center, Manufacturers Association of Central New York, NY CREATES, Cornell University, Toptica Photonics and Jubilee Homes.
How to Apply
Interested individuals are encouraged to apply through the program’s official website at q-succeed-cny.org/apply.html. Applicants will be asked to provide basic personal information and submit a resume or CV.
For more information about the program, visit q-succeed-cny.org or contact the Q-SUCCEED-CNY team by email at mhasanov@syr.edu or anghimir@syr.edu.
