MFG Austin Ep. 20: Rebuilding the Workforce Pipeline, Semiconductor Training, CTE Revamp & Advanced Packaging (Feat. Alyssa Reinhart)

In this episode of the Manufacturing Austin Podcast, host Kevin Fincher sits down with Alyssa Reinhart, Director of Workforce Development at the Texas Institute for Electronics (TIE), to explore how Texas is leading the charge in rebuilding America’s semiconductor workforce and reshaping the landscape of technical education.

They delve into:

Alyssa’s unique career journey—from a family-run nondestructive testing business to driving state-level workforce development policy.

How TIE emerged from UT Austin’s nanotechnology research and now serves as a national leader in advanced semiconductor packaging and heterogeneous integration.

The revival of U.S. chip manufacturing through CHIPS Act funding and Texas’ bold legislative support.

Why advanced packaging is the next frontier and how Texas is positioning itself at the center of this revolution.

The evolving role of Career & Technical Education (CTE), and how Texas is embracing dual credit, stackable credentials, and real-world externships to better align education with industry needs.

Whether you're in manufacturing, education, or workforce policy, this episode offers a powerful look into the future of American industry and how Central Texas is at its forefront.