BACKGROUND
The Virginia Alliance for Semiconductor Technology (VAST) is a "grant-funded network of partners working to advance semiconductors in Virginia." It grew out of the CHIPS and Science Act signed into law in 2022 which authorized about $280 billion in new funding to boost domestic research and manufacturing of semiconductors in the U.S.
CHALLENGE
The Director of Communications was "just getting started on their marketing and communications efforts and could use some assistance." She inherited the existing materials and thought the overall look-and-feel was too "heavy" for the technology industry.
SOLUTION
PHASE 1: fact sheet refresh and marketing collateral proposal
PHASE 2: Two program tri-fold brochures for job fairs
PHASE 3: overview brochure and brand guide
OUTCOME
In 2025, the VAST partnership introduced the nation’s first statewide semiconductor fabrication access platform (VFAB). It supports over 100 active users, a 1:6 staff-to-equipment ratio, and more than 65,000 square feet of lab space — positioning it as a scalable node in the national innovation ecosystem.
Student Testimonial:
"Backed by my Associate Degree, the 10-week hands-on training [in the Chip Fabrication certificate program] gave me the skills and confidence to find a job as a Semiconductor Technician at Northrop Grumman, starting May 5, 2025. Transitioning from a Walmart job to this role is life-changing for me and my family. Thank you for opening this door and preparing me for an exciting and rewarding career in semiconductor technology."
Shiva Adhikari, VAST Chip Fabrication Program '24
