Watertown schools expand hands-on technology classes with Micron support

New York State Education Commissioner Betty Rosa visited Watertown to meet with local superintendents and education leaders while students took part in hands-on technology classes supported in part by Micron. The classes are designed to connect classroom learning with skills used in the technology and semiconductor industries.

At Case Middle School, students use 3D printers to develop product ideas. At Watertown High School, students learn to build electrical circuits and use them to create light. The program is in its third year, and Watertown City School District Superintendent Dr. Larry Schmiegel said Micron provides the curriculum and materials.

The work is part of a broader advanced-technology effort announced in 2023 by the American Federation of Teachers, New York State United Teachers, the United Federation of Teachers, Micron and Gov. Kathy Hochul. The $4 million framework is funded equally by New York state and Micron. The pilot began in fall 2024 and is intended for students in grades 10 through 12 across 10 pilot districts and BOCES programs.

Micron is building a semiconductor facility in Clay and says the site is expected to employ 9,000 people. The company broke ground on its first New York fabrication plant in January 2026 and expects initial wafer production in 2030.

The classes give North Country students an early introduction to design, electronics and manufacturing skills. Jefferson Community College also received a $750,000 Micron grant and plans to begin mechatronics degree programming in fall 2027.

The college's free semiconductor bootcamp runs from Oct. 20 through Dec. 10, 2026, on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 to 9 p.m. in Building 3. Registration is available through Jefferson Community College's online form. Questions can be directed to David Snow at dsnow@sunyjefferson.edu or (315) 786-2297.