PATHS is an NSF-funded 8-week training program designed to prepare autistic individuals for careers in the semiconductor industry. The curriculum integrates online lectures, VR-based hands-on training, in-person cleanroom and lab experiences at the University of Florida, and mentorship from industry experts at Micron, AMD, Intel, and GlobalFoundries.
Selected participants gain access to internships with semiconductor and defense technology companies with stipends up to $10,000 fully covered by the university.
Week one consists of an in-person workshop at the University of Florida, where participants get direct exposure to cleanroom and lab environments. Weeks two through seven feature online lectures with integrated VR training and one-on-one mentorship—participants receive VR headsets for remote training modules. Week eight is an online employment bootcamp hosted by industry experts and CARD staff, focused on preparing participants for internship and career opportunities.