The semiconductor industry is at the heart of modern technology, powering everything from smartphones and medical devices to communication systems and transportation. However, to sustain its rapid growth and innovation, the industry faces a pressing challenge: a growing talent gap. Addressing this issue requires collaboration between academia and industry to ensure that students are not only equipped with the necessary skills but also have clear pathways into the workforce.
That’s where SEMI On Campus comes in. Launched in March 2025 by SEMI Europe, this new initiative is designed to bring together the semiconductor industry and universities, fostering collaboration that benefits students, educational institutions, and companies alike. With its first edition in Poland, SEMI On Campus is already making waves by reaching over 150 students and strengthening industry-academia connections.
First Stop: Poland
The inaugural SEMI On Campus event took place at Gdańsk University of Technology and The University of Gdańsk, where key representatives from SEMI Europe—Bernard Capraro (Senior Manager, University Partnerships & Talent Initiative), Victoria Cummings (Senior Manager, Workforce Development & EU Projects), Maria Daniela Perez (Senior Manager, Business Development), and Kartikey Srivastava (Senior Specialist, Communications)—met with deans, professors, and students from various faculties.
The Power of Industry-Academia Collaboration
Collaboration between universities and the semiconductor industry is crucial in ensuring students gain practical knowledge, hands-on experience, and direct access to job opportunities. Companies, in turn, benefit from a steady pipeline of skilled graduates ready to drive innovation and meet industry demands.
During the event, Bernard Capraro shared his own journey, from an engineering internship in Germany to leading research and development initiatives at Intel. His experience highlighted how diverse skill sets and career paths can lead to impactful roles in the semiconductor industry.
“Yes, the industry needs mechatronics engineers, data scientists, chemists, physicists, and computer science professionals. But it also needs media experts, gamers, biologists, environmentalists, public policy professionals, and communicators. It’s all about transferable skills and finding your area in this dynamic and diverse industry,” said Capraro.
Expanding Opportunities with the European Chips Skills Academy
One of the key initiatives supporting the semiconductor industry’s workforce development is the European Chips Skills Academy (ECSA). Designed to tackle skills shortages and propel industry growth, the Academy builds on the goals of the Microelectronics Pact for Skills and the EU Chips Act. With backing from 18 partners, including vocational training providers, research organizations, and industry leaders, ECSA aims to:
- Attract new talent into microelectronics
- Foster collaboration between educational institutions and industry
- Provide training and certification opportunities to enhance workforce readiness
Victoria Cummings emphasized how the initiative offers mentorship programs and access to leading companies and events. ECSA also builds on the student ambassador initiative, empowering institutions to support students in developing ideas and connecting them with mentors who can help shape their careers.
Driving Diversity with the European Chips Diversity Alliance
Diversity, equity, and inclusion are key to strengthening the semiconductor workforce. Kartikey Srivastava highlighted the European Chips Diversity Alliance (ECDA), a collaborative effort between academia and industry that aims to lower barriers to participation for underrepresented groups.
With 11 partner organizations, the ECDA seeks to enhance inclusivity in the microelectronics sector, ensuring that the industry remains competitive and accessible to all. By fostering inclusive talent pipelines, the initiative is helping shape a more equitable and innovative future.
A Successful Launch with a Bright Future
The first SEMI On Campus event was a tremendous success, not only for the students who gained valuable insights and networking opportunities but also for universities and industry leaders looking to strengthen their collaboration. By building bridges between academia and industry, SEMI On Campus is paving the way for a more skilled and dynamic semiconductor workforce in Europe.
If you’re interested in hosting a SEMI On Campus initiative or inviting an industry representative to speak at your institution, please reach out to [email protected]. Let’s work together to inspire the next generation of semiconductor leaders!
