Syracuse Sun

The inaugural Micron Day took place at Syracuse University on February 25, highlighting the partnership between Micron Technology and the university. This event emphasized Micron's substantial investment in Central New York and its collaboration with Syracuse University to foster innovation and workforce development.

"Today is more than just the event. It’s about building a future, a future where innovation thrives, where opportunities abound and where our community prospers," stated Jeff Rubin, senior vice president for digital transformation and chief digital officer.

Micron has committed $100 billion to transform Central New York into a leading hub for semiconductor fabrication. Syracuse University plays a significant role in preparing the workforce for Micron's memory megafab in Clay, New York.

The event drew hundreds of participants, including university faculty, staff, students, local high school students, community members, and Micron employees. They explored various collaborations between the university and Micron Technology.

One highlight was an announcement from Micron and Syracuse University's D’Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF). Ninety transitioning servicemembers, veterans, and military spouses completed a semiconductor certificate through IVMF’s Onward to Opportunity program.

An alumni panel featured Kim Burnett ’91, Joe Nehme ’11, and Savion Pollard ’25. Moderated by Sarah Newton-Klitz of Micron’s strategic workforce programs division, the panel discussed their roles at Micron. "You can see here that this is just a sampling of the different job opportunities that Micron has available," said Newton-Klitz.

Burnett emphasized providing good-paying jobs for families: "I want to be sure that folks... have an opportunity for a good paying job." Nehme highlighted his connection to Upstate New York: "To work for a company that is committed to reshoring semiconductor manufacturing back to the United States... I saw no better opportunity."

In closing discussions moderated by J. Michael Haynie of Syracuse University were April Arnzen of Micron Foundation and Scott Gatzemeier from Micron's U.S. expansion team. They focused on future growth driven by artificial intelligence. "That’s what’s driving huge amounts of demand for our product," said Gatzemeier.

Arnzen spoke about workforce challenges: "We started partnering early... scaling up existing pathways—engineering, science and math programs—is going to be very important."

The commitment to veterans was also noted as a key factor in choosing Central New York as part of their strategy: "We knew that this ecosystem existed," Arnzen remarked.

"We know that a healthy and thriving community is important for a healthy and thriving business," she added. "This is definitely an Erie Canal moment... We have the opportunity to do this well."