Advancements in semiconductor integrated circuit (IC) “chip” technology over the past 60+ years have enabled exponential growth in chip functionality with exponential reduction in cost per transistor, resulting in the proliferation of information and communication devices and systems, with revolutionary impact on society; today cloud computing, big data and artificial intelligence are driving the digital transformation of all industries. As fundamental limits approach for transistor miniaturization, alternative, more innovative approaches to improving chip performance will be needed. In this talk I will give some examples of such approaches and discuss opportunities to collaborate in diversifying talent development pathways to meet the growing innovation and workforce development needs of the U.S. semiconductor microelectronics industry, spurred by the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022.