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This summer, the SEMI Foundation brought together 16 high school students from Taiwan and four students from Pennsylvania for the inaugural SEMI Global Schools Academy, a five-day learning experience connecting sustainability, emerging technology, semiconductor careers, and global collaboration.The Academy is one part of the broader SEMI Global Schools model. Classroom and school-based programs give students opportunities to explore semiconductors, sustainability, artificial intelligence, and related careers where they already learn. The Academy builds on that approach by giving a smaller group of students a deeper opportunity to learn across institutions and communities.Students used Micro:bit sensors and AI-driven data analysis to explore environmental challenges including air quality, flooding, wastewater, and sea-level rise, with hands-on activities ranking among the most highly rated parts of the Academy.Following the Academy, nine in 10 participating students reported interest in the semiconductor industry—an encouraging indication that meaningful exposure can help young people see possibilities they may not have previously considered. Connecting Institutions Across BordersWhat made the Academy possible was not a single organization or campus, but a network of institutions working together.In Taiwan, schools, educators, government partners, and advisers helped prepare and support the participating students. In the United States, universities, local governments, educators, community organizations, and industry partners contributed expertise and learning opportunities.SEMI Global Schools serves as a connector across that ecosystem, bringing together institutions that already have strong relationships with students, communities, technology, and the semiconductor industry.That approach also makes the model adaptable. Rather than creating something entirely new in every region, Global Schools can build on the schools, universities, government partners, community organizations, and companies already there.Learning Through Technology, Sustainability, and CommunityStudents began their week at The College of New Jersey, where a sustainability professor from the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) introduced climate change, systems thinking, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.Throughout the week, students explored artificial intelligence, semiconductors, sensors, coding, micro:bits, environmental monitoring, and data. They considered how technology might help address real-world challenges involving air quality, energy, transportation, infrastructure, and community well-being.The goal was not to turn students into semiconductor experts in five days. It was to help them understand that the technologies they use every day are connected to a much larger ecosystem—and that there are many different ways to participate in it.Students also learned that the semiconductor workforce extends beyond engineering to areas including sustainability, data science, supply chain, business, communications, education, public policy, and workforce development.Learning Beyond the ClassroomThe Academy also gave students opportunities to experience that ecosystem firsthand.Students learned at The College of New Jersey and the New Jersey Institute of Technology, participated in outdoor environmental learning at the New Jersey School of Conservation, visited Princeton University, and engaged with technology and semiconductor professionals.They also interacted with Princeton Mayor Mark Freda and Chester Mayor Stefan Roots, connecting their learning to broader conversations about education, technology, workforce development, and community opportunities.Just as importantly, Taiwanese and American students worked together throughout the week, sharing perspectives, solving problems, and learning across cultural and language differences.Building on What Already WorksThe Academy is one part of a broader Global Schools model that also includes classroom and school-based programs. Those programs can reach students where they already learn, while experiences like the Academy provide a deeper opportunity to engage across institutions and communities.The inaugural Academy offered an early example of what that model can look like: students from Taiwan and Pennsylvania learning together about sustainability, AI, semiconductors, and community challenges while engaging universities, industry, educators, and civic leaders.As the semiconductor industry grows globally, helping young people understand that ecosystem earlier matters.That is the vision behind SEMI Global Schools: connect strong institutions and create meaningful opportunities for more students to see where they might fit in the technology workforce of the future.As the semiconductor industry expands, workforce development, education, community capacity, and strong local institutions will increasingly be part of the infrastructure that supports sustainable growth.Learn more about the SEMI Foundation and SEMI workforce development programs addressing the global semiconductor industry’s talent gap.AcknowledgmentsDr. Prabhakar Shrestha, Assistant Director of Sustainability, New Jersey Institute of TechnologyRandall Solomon, Executive Director, Sustainable Jersey for Schools The New Jersey School of ConservationMelissa Taggart, Senior Director, Project Learning Tree Development and StrategyMary Westlund, Manager, Education Systems, Project Learning TreeBia Hamed, Ph.D., is Program Manager, Global Education Initiatives at the SEMI Foundation, Dr. Yi-Hsuan (Tim) Hsu is Adjunct Professor at National Tainan University in Taiwan, and Justin Harris is Senior Advisor for Climate Equity Social Impact at SEMI.

The European Chips Diversity Alliance (ECDA), a European Union-funded initiative coordinated by SEMI Europe, hosted the third Inclusive Chips Forum Bratislava: Bridging Education and Industry for Inclusive Talent at the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology of the Slovak University of Technology in Bratislava on September 2, 2026. Co-organized with ECDA project partner Comenius University in Bratislava, the forum brought together educators, industry representatives, policymakers, and researchers to explore how collaboration between academic institutions and employers can open the semiconductor sector to a broader, more inclusive talent pool.The event addressed questions at the heart of Europe's semiconductor ambitions: how universities and employers can work together to attract and retain talent that is too often overlooked, what role institutional culture and leadership play in creating genuinely inclusive environments, and which models of cooperation are already proving effective across Europe and Slovakia. Through presentations, panel discussions, and exchanges of good practice, participants explored concrete approaches to building pathways into the semiconductor sector for people with a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. “Europe's semiconductor future depends on its ability to draw on the full depth of its talent,” said Cassandra Melvin, Senior Director, Business Development and Operations at SEMI Europe. “That means breaking down the barriers between education and industry, and making sure that the people who have historically been left out of this sector have a real path in."The program featured perspectives from across the ecosystem: from the counselling and psychological support systems that help students with diverse needs thrive in higher education, to the sharp decline in female enrolment at technical schools over recent decades, to what it means to build a semiconductor workforce that extends well beyond engineering. A closing panel, Connecting Education and Industry to Build Inclusive Semiconductor Talent, brought together representatives from SEMI Europe, the Czech and Slovak Semiconductor Centers, and onsemi Slovakia to discuss successful models of talent development and how education can better respond to the needs of a rapidly evolving sector.“Bringing educators and employers into the same room is necessary, not just useful,” said Janka Kottulová, Project Manager at Comenius University in Bratislava and co-organizer of the event. “The semiconductor sector cannot build the workforce it needs without universities and industry designing that future together, and forums like this one are where that work begins." SEMI Europe thanks the Slovak University of Technology in Bratislava, the Slovak Chips Competence Centre, and Comenius University in Bratislava for their partnership in organizing the Forum, with special thanks to Andrea Fábiková and Janka Kottulová for coordinating the event and its program.The Inclusive Chips Forum Bratislava is part of a series of events organized under the ECDA project, bringing together stakeholders across Europe to advance inclusion in the semiconductor sector. Information on upcoming forums will be announced shortly.About the European Chips Diversity AllianceThe ECDA is a collaborative initiative comprising 11 partners across Europe. ECDA works to expand access to training and employment in microelectronics by removing barriers for underrepresented and underserved communities, helping unlock the full spectrum of Europe's talent pool. Learn more at diversityinchips.eu or follow us on LinkedIn or Instagram. Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat is the Inclusive Chips Forum?The Inclusive Chips Forum is a series of public events organized by the ECDA bringing together educators, industry representatives, policymakers, and researchers to explore how diversity, equity, and inclusion can strengthen Europe's semiconductor talent pipeline. Each forum is hosted in a different European location and focuses on practical approaches to building more inclusive pathways into the sector.What topics were covered at the Inclusive Chips Forum Bratislava?The forum covered a wide range of topics, including inclusion practices in universities and companies, counselling and psychological support as tools for inclusion in higher education, gender representation in technical schools, diverse career pathways into the semiconductor sector beyond engineering, and how education and industry can collaborate more effectively to attract and retain underrepresented talent.Who attended the Inclusive Chips Forum Bratislava?The forum brought together educators and education managers from higher education and vocational training institutions, HR professionals and company representatives from the semiconductor sector, policymakers, and researchers from across Slovakia, Czechia, Austria, and wider Europe.How can educators and industry representatives get involved with ECDA?Organizations and individuals can engage with ECDA through its events, training programs, and online resources at diversityinchips.eu. ECDA welcomes participation from academic institutions, companies, and public bodies across Europe committed to building a more inclusive semiconductor workforce.When is the next Inclusive Chips Forum?Information on the next Inclusive Chips Forum will be announced shortly. Follow ECDA on LinkedIn and Instagram or visit diversityinchips.eu to stay up to date.Marta Scandella is Communications Coordinator for EU Projects at SEMI Europe.

The SEMI Quality Benchmark Consortium (QBC) met August 19–20 at Texas Instruments (TI) in Dallas, bringing together quality leaders from across the semiconductor industry to benchmark best practices and address common manufacturing challenges.Fern Yoon, VP of World Quality at Texas Instruments, hosted the latest face-to-face meeting, bringing together representatives from Infineon Technologies, STMicroelectronics, NXP Semiconductors, GlobalFoundries, and Intel Corporation for two days of technical discussions, benchmarking, and knowledge sharing.The QBC operates on a "give-to-get" philosophy, with members contributing survey data and participating in open discussions to build a shared library of industry best practices. This meeting centered on three topics: audit programs, failure analysis, and multi-source fab qualification.The office of Jack Kilby, inventorof the Integrated Circuit in 1958The meeting opened with an overview of Texas Instruments' business, global manufacturing footprint, and quality organization. Attendees also had the opportunity to tour Jack Kilby's historic office, offering a glimpse into the legacy of the co-inventor of the integrated circuit and the innovations that helped shape the semiconductor industry. Benchmarking Audit Programs and Quality SystemsThe first benchmarking session focused on internal audit programs and quality management systems. Participants compared how their companies qualify auditors, structure audit organizations, and comply with quality management standards. The discussion also covered supplier audits, management reviews, customer audits, and ways to improve audit effectiveness while reducing duplicate effort. Sharing Best Practices for Failure AnalysisThe second session focused on Electrical-Induced Physical Damage (EIPD), Electrical Overstress (EOS), and No Trouble Found (NTF) investigations. Participants compared failure analysis workflows, stress testing methods, customer communication practices, and criteria for closing investigations. Strengthening Multi-Source Fab QualificationWith manufacturers continuing to expand production capacity, multi-source qualification remains an important priority. Members compared strategies for technology transfer, risk assessment, customer communication, and qualification planning to demonstrate equivalent manufacturing capability across multiple fabs.Looking AheadThe meeting concluded with an update from the AI Product Quality Working Group, which is finalizing a white paper on AI-enabled Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA). Members also identified future benchmarking topics, including traceability, maverick lots, and quality at speed.Through open benchmarking and knowledge sharing, the SEMI Quality Benchmark Consortium continues to help members strengthen quality systems, improve manufacturing performance, and advance semiconductor quality across the industry. The consortium will continue its work at the upcoming meeting to be hosted by NXP in Eindhoven. Front row (left to right): Fern Yoon (Texas Instruments), Sumitra Sukumaran (Intel), Jens Luepke (Infineon), Lou Cerra (NXP), Roberto Lissoni (STMicroelectronics)Back row (left to right): Karim Somani (SEMI), Mark da Silva (SEMI), Eamonn McGovern (Intel), Mark Mason (Texas Instruments), Joe Beyer (NXP), Paul Tiner (Texas Instruments), Ivo Clerici (GlobalFoundries), Wesley Hirsch (TI)

The SEMI Startups for Sustainable Semiconductors (S3) program has announced 12 startups chosen as finalists for pitching to the industry at SEMICON West 2026 in San Francisco, California. The finalists were chosen from a field of 33 semifinalists after a virtual pitch event held over two days on July 29 and 30. Startups were evaluated by the organizing committee on five factors: the sustainability impact on our industry, commercial viability of product, company value proposition, the quality of the pitch and the startup team.The committee, made up of experienced Corporate Venture Capitalists (CVCs) from the global semiconductor industry and chaired by Micron, received submissions across four categories identified for 2026:Decarbonized Semiconductor ManufacturingDesign for Sustainability – Chips PackagingDatacenter Efficiency in Power Delivery and ThermalsNew Frontiers in Sustainable ComputingNow in its fifth year, the program is built around two strengths: exposure to semiconductor industry CVCs and the personal mentoring each startup receives. Mentoring topics are tailored to align with the greatest need of the startup and can range from a basic introduction to semiconductor manufacturing to connections with new funding sources. A full analysis of the program is available here.This year’s cohort spans six countries across four continents. The 12 finalists bring solutions across abatement, thermal management, water reuse, wafer inspection, power delivery, simulation, advanced packaging and memory architecture.The SEMI Startups for Sustainable Semiconductors pitch event will take place on the Sustainability Pavilion Stage on Wednesday, October 14, starting at 1:00 p.m. Andrew Byrnes, Director of Venture Capital for Artificial Intelligence at Micron Technology and chair of the S3 steering committee, will open the session and introduce the startup pitches.The finalist pitches will run through the afternoon, with each presenter given a 10-minute slot. Halfway through the pitch order, I will host a fireside chat with Steven Bakota, Corporate Vice President, Corporate Strategy and Corporate Development at Micron. The conversation will cover the role of startups in semiconductor sustainability and how they can build strong partnerships with large fabs.After the second group of pitches, votes for the winning startups will be tabulated during the S3 alumni panel, where past participants will inspire this year’s finalists with their stories of building partnerships in the semiconductor industry. An awards ceremony at 4:05 p.m., sponsored by Pangaea Ventures, will wrap up the S3 event and kick off the Sustainability Reception.Investors are welcome to attend the session at SEMICON West and to register their interest here to learn more about the 2027 program.2026 S3 FinalistsListed in presentation order.Rise Technology srlMilano, Lombardy, ItalyRise Technology develops next-generation semiconductor equipment based on its proprietary Dynamic Drop™ technology, overcoming the limits of conventional electroplating. The platform enables high-uniformity, high-throughput formation of interconnects, improving yield and enabling advanced architectures in heterogeneous integration, including chiplets, DRAM stacking, and 2.5D/3D packaging.KoolMicro, Inc.Dongtan, Gyeonggi-do, South KoreaKoolMicro is engineering the “Thermal Highway” for the AI era. The company develops Integrated Manifold MicroChannel (IMMC) modules that handle 4,000W and higher thermal loads. Its Direct-to-Chip solution uses vertically sprayed coolant to remove heat directly from the chip level, ensuring next-generation GPUs and CPUs never throttle.VEIR, Inc.Woburn, MA, USAVEIR develops superconducting power solutions, including cables and supporting infrastructure, from grid to rack.IWI Australia Pty LimitedSydney, NSW, Australia IWI Australia has developed and piloted a patent-pending catalytic quench of hydrogen peroxide in fab wastewater, particularly in complex water matrices with high peroxide load, extreme acidity and heavy metals. The company has also developed a patent-pending oxidation process for triazole, another pain point in fab operation and water reuse.enaDyneLeipzig, Saxony, GermanyenaDyne builds a fully electric, modular abatement system for semiconductor fabs based on non-thermal plasma catalysis. Its reactor destroys PFCs, VOCs, and NOx at greater than 99% destruction and removal efficiency through electron-impact chemistry at near-ambient temperature, fitting the same footprint as burn-wet for direct drop-in replacement. The same hardware extends to electrified chemical synthesis.Powerlattice Technologies Inc.Phoenix, AZ, USAPowerlattice has developed the first true monolithic integrated voltage regulator designed for high-wattage ASICs and XPUs operating above 1kW.UNISERSZurich, Canton of Zürich, SwitzerlandUNISERS has developed a novel wafer defect inspection and characterization technology to help fabs find and identify minute contaminants below 10nm, which are mostly invisible to currently used inspection equipment. As transistor nodes move to 3nm and below, these very small particles cause significant yield issues in state-of-the-art wafer fabs.CHIPADD, Corp.Binghamton, NY, USACHIPADD is the first to additively manufacture ultra-efficient copper cooling features directly onto the surface of GPU, CPU, and other high-power silicon chips. The company’s innovation includes materials and methods for robust bonding, manufacturing of solid and porous cooling features, enhanced materials for cooling, and manifold and precision jet design.FlexcomputeBoston, MA, USAFlexcompute builds a GPU-native physics simulation platform: Tidy3D for photonic and electromagnetic FDTD, PhotonForge for photonic design automation, Flexcompute RF for full-wave electromagnetics, and Flow360 for computational fluid dynamics and thermal analysis, delivering results 50 to 500 times faster than legacy CPU tools. FlexAgent, the company’s AI assistant, enables engineers to run and iterate simulations via natural language, accelerating chip and data center component design.HEXAspec Inc.Houston, TX, USAHEXAspec develops advanced molding compounds for semiconductor encapsulation using high-aspect-ratio hexagonal boron nitride nanosheets in polymers. Its scalable, patent-protected exfoliation process enables ten times higher thermal conductivity while maintaining electrical insulation, mechanical strength, and compatibility with standard OSAT and foundry packaging for HPC, automotive, and edge-AI applications.K1 SemiconductorChicago, IL, USAK1 Semiconductor creates engineered semiconductor wafers by peeling thin layers from high-quality single-crystal parent wafers. Its patented wafer splitting method releases a 5 to 50 micron-thick layer of single-crystal material from the parent wafer, which is then transferred and bonded to a handle wafer to create a custom semiconductor wafer.FS2Saint Louis, MO, USAFS2 is developing a monolithic 3D integration platform and memory, building next-generation stacked 3D SRAM and Process-on-Memory architectures. Its product delivers memory solutions with bandwidth, capacity, low latency, energy efficiency and cost advantages for AI workloads. Saifi Usmani is VP, Global Industry Sustainability Programs at SEMI.

The SEMI Energy Collaborative (EC) is proud to have earned a 2026 Renewable Energy Markets (REM™) Asia Award, one of the region’s most respected honours for organisations driving meaningful clean energy adoption. We received the Outstanding Initiative recognition during the REM Asia 2026 conference on April 21 in Singapore, where we also presented on South Korea’s evolving renewable energy market and policy landscape. This recognition reflects the collective effort of the entire SEMI EC community, member companies, and partners who have supported our mission to achieve 100% low-carbon electricity by 2040. The Story Behind the AwardThe SEMI EC was founded on a straightforward premise: no single company can solve the energy challenges of our industry alone. Decarbonising the semiconductor value chain, one of the most energy-intensive sectors in the world, requires collective action, aligned policy, and large enough demand signals to prompt market response. Since its launch, the SEMI EC has brought together a growing community of semiconductor manufacturers, suppliers, customers, and sustainability leaders to promote renewable energy procurement, policy reform, and clean energy access. Our work has spanned four key fronts:Developing concrete policy recommendations for affordable, low-carbon energy procurement by hosting regular roundtables with government and industry leaders across South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Singapore, and Malaysia.Building a clear roadmap that gives industry and government a shared understanding of our plan for achieving a low-carbon electricity supply by 2040. Advancing aggregated and group-buy procurement models that make renewable energy economically accessible, and deploying utility green tariffs to deliver more cost-effective and diversified procurement options.Providing the semiconductor supply chain with practical guidance on procurement vehicles, including power purchase agreements, virtual power purchase agreements, and energy attribute certificates, to accelerate informed adoption.One of our biggest milestones to date was SEMI’s November 2025 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Gyeonggi Provincial Government in South Korea to expand the semiconductor industry’s access to renewable energy. This MoU was created in partnership with Samsung, SK hynix, and the Korea Semiconductor Industry Association (KSIA). As a critical hub for the semiconductor value chain, expanding visible renewable energy supply in Gyeonggi Province will directly accelerate industry decarbonisation.Looking AheadThe SEMI EC is also working closely with the Semiconductor Climate Consortium (SCC) to help reach its Scope 2 goal of 100% low-carbon electricity for Asia-Pacific by 2040. To achieve this, we’re engaging with regulators and governments across Asia to shape policy and expand low-carbon energy supplies. Meanwhile, the SCC Scope 2 Working Group Renewable Energy Initiative is equipping supply chain companies with knowledge, tools, and renewable energy procurement pathways to help them act on their decarbonisation commitments. Asia stands at a critical inflection point in the global energy transition. Electricity demand is rising sharply, decarbonisation timelines are compressing, and the semiconductor industry’s role as a major energy consumer and technology enabler has never been more consequential.These considerations motivate us to go further. The pathway to scalable and affordable renewable energy requires sustained coordination between government and industry, but policy frameworks must catch up with industry needs. In addition, procurement costs remain a barrier for many in the microelectronics supply chain. To turn industry influence into policy traction, SEMI EC is helping to bridge these gaps. Thank YouOn behalf of the SEMI EC, we dedicate this award to every member company, partner, and government that has contributed to this journey. When industry comes together with a shared purpose, it can be a powerful force for a cleaner and more sustainable future. We’re grateful to the REM™ Asia community for recognising what this industry can accomplish when we work as one. We look forward to making continued progress with all of you.To learn more, download SEMI’s latest sustainability reports or visit the SEMI Energy Collaborative website.SoYoung Jang is Senior Manager, Energy Collaborative Consortium at SEMI.

This blog series explores how collaboration between industry and academia can empower the next generation of semiconductor innovators. Through insights from leaders, educators, and students, we’ll showcase effective strategies for bridging the talent gap, fostering innovation, and creating meaningful career pathways in the semiconductor industry.As innovation accelerates and new challenges emerge, the industry’s greatest breakthroughs will come from bold, curious students, young professionals, and lifelong learners ready to build what comes next. SEMI spoke with Professor Antonio Costa of the University of Catania about attracting the next generation to STEM, the emerging skills required in the semiconductor industry, and examples of impactful collaboration with local industry, along with many other insights.Costa shared his perspectives following his participation in the SEMI on Campus program, held on April 16, 2026, in Catania, Italy. SEMI: What emerging skills do you believe will be most essential for the next generation of semiconductor innovators, and how can industry and academia work together to nurture them?Costa: I firmly believe in the role of interdisciplinary skills. The next generation of semiconductor innovators will need a blend of deep technical expertise, cross-disciplinary thinking, and adaptability to rapidly evolving technologies specifically based on artificial intelligence. The future semiconductor innovator isn’t just a circuit designer. They’re a systems thinker, data scientist, and materials engineer rolled into one. The most successful ecosystems will be those where academia teaches fundamentals, and industry provides real-world constraints, tools, and scale. So, university and industry should work together to share their knowledge and technological infrastructures with the aim of supporting the next generation of semiconductor innovators. SEMI: In your work with young engineers and researchers, what approaches have you found most successful in nurturing creativity and sustaining curiosity in such a technically complex field? How do you think we can attract the next generation to enter the STEM studies?Costa: Curiosity and creativity are two major features for researchers and engineers in general. Over the years of teaching and coordinating research activity, I have been able to observe that students are increasingly drawn to challenges coming from the industrial world. In a way, one could say that complexity often stimulates curiosity, and when this happens, students are able to deliver their best performance in terms of creativity and quality of results. In my courses, students have always been required to tackle an industry-inspired project work to be eligible to pass the exam. Every year, I invite industry representatives from local manufacturing companies to present real case studies to the classroom, describing their key elements, constraints, and objectives. Students are then asked to solve the industrial case study by applying the problem-solving techniques learned during the course. Based on my experience, I believe that a greater intensity in the relationship between the industrial and academic worlds can further stimulate students' curiosity and the interest of new generations.SEMI: What do you believe are the most significant barriers for students entering the semiconductor industry today, and how can academia help bridge these gaps?Costa: As usual, the main barriers for students concern the gap between the theoretical study mindset developed during university courses and the demands of the industrial world in terms of teamwork skills, problem-solving abilities, and soft skills. Universities and industry should find greater opportunities for collaboration, for example by establishing shared laboratory activities or seminars during which managers from semiconductor companies, and beyond, illustrate the essential aspects of working life and the primary needs of the semiconductor industry. At the same time, it would be advisable to emphasize the employment and career opportunities that the semiconductor industry is currently able to offer. Hackathons, that have a competitive orientation, could also represent a valid stimulus that companies and universities could pursue jointly and on a regular basis.SEMI: How can universities and industry partners collaborate more effectively to create learning experiences that truly unlock students’ potential and prepare them for the sector’s evolving demands? Professor Antonia Costa, University of Catania and Daniele Pagano, STMicroelectronicsCosta: Shared laboratories, curricular and extracurricular internships scheduled on a continuous basis, and periodic seminars held by company representatives with diverse areas of expertise can make a positive contribution to rapidly and robustly unlocking the learning potential of today's students and tomorrow's new hires. In December 2021, the University of Catania and STMicroelectronics signed a framework agreement to strengthen collaboration in the field of power electronics, with a focus on advanced research and training. The agreement aims to support technological innovation and the development of professional skills in the semiconductor sector, including:Research and development: the launch of projects focusing on increasing power density, efficiency, and reliability of power modules. Training and talent: funds for students’ awards, mentorship programs, internships, thesis projects.Innovation: support for technological growth and the development of professional expertise in power electronics. Regional ties: consolidation of Catania's role as a hub for semiconductor research, with strong synergy between the university and the local ST production site. Curricular internships linked to Master’s degree theses, supervised by faculty members across disciplines, primarily within Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, and Chemistry programs.SEMI: Can you share other examples of collaborations? Costa: Over the past decade, the University of Catania has been an active partner in multiple European consortia, supporting the development of research projects funded through highly competitive national and European programs. Currently, the University of Catania is engaged in collaborative research with STMicroelectronics through two Horizon Europe projects.In the first project, HiCONNECTS, the Department of Engineering is developing a digital twin architecture aimed at optimizing wafer lot dispatching at STMicroelectronics’ manufacturing facility in Catania.The second project, GENESIS, brings together the Department of Engineering and the Department of Chemical Sciences to pursue an ambitious sustainability objective: the development of innovative methods to identify and reduce per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) generated by semiconductor manufacturing processes, thereby mitigating environmental impact."The role of universities is to help students recognize their potential and guide them toward fields where their abilities can truly flourish. Initiatives like SEMI on Campus are invaluable, as they inspire students through direct engagement with professionals, helping bridge the gap between theory and industrial practice." -- Professor Antonio Costa, University of Catania .custom-quote-block { border-left: 4px solid #d9d9d9; padding-left: 26px; margin: 24px 0; } .custom-quote-block blockquote { margin: 0; padding: 0; border: none; } .custom-quote-block p { margin: 0; font-size: 18px; line-height: 1.6; font-style: italic; color: #000; } SEMI: Looking ahead, what role do you see educators playing in shaping the future of semiconductor innovators? Costa: The role of educators, both in schools and, above all, in universities, is to help students recognize their own potential and develop the maturity needed to identify and pursue those fields of knowledge that best highlight their abilities.The SEMI on Campus initiative was immediately embraced by many universities and by myself, as it offers students from diverse academic backgrounds the opportunity to understand the key skills sought by players in the semiconductor industry, while also highlighting the employment and career paths available in this field.The opportunity to hear directly from prominent speakers who work daily in semiconductor design and manufacturing represents a powerful way to stimulate students’ curiosity and potential, while helping to bridge the gap between the theoretical knowledge acquired in university classrooms and the practical, results‑oriented approach required in an industrial environment.The benefits for students are broad and significant, as they can assess their own aptitudes and ambitions against the real demands of semiconductor companies, drawing inspiration and insight from firsthand accounts shared by industry professionals.Antonio Costa is a full professor at the University of Catania (DICAR Department). He teaches Production Planning and Control in the Master’s degree in Engineering Management, and Advanced Technologies for Manufacturing Processes in the Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering.His research activities are mainly focused on production scheduling, supply chain dynamics, manufacturing process optimization and Statistical Process Control (SPC). He is area editor for Computers Industrial Engineering, member of the Italian Association of Manufacturing Technologies (AITeM) and leads several research collaborations with STMicroelectronics.Interested in bringing SEMI On Campus to your institution or welcoming an industry expert as a guest speaker?Reach out to [email protected]. Let’s work together to inspire the next generation of semiconductor leaders!Related Initiatives:SEMI 20 Under 30: The SEMI 20 Under 30 Awards recognize exceptional young leaders in the semiconductor industry who are making significant contributions and driving innovation. Nominations are open!ChipQuest: The ChipQuest Challenge promotes the microelectronics industry to students to build future talent. University and high school students can participate and win amazing prizes! Serena Brischetto is Director Marketing and Digital Engagement at SEMI Europe.

The Rising Stars: 20 Under 30 blog series celebrates the brightest young leaders shaping the future of the semiconductor industry. These exceptional individuals have earned the SEMI Europe 20 Under 30 Award for making a remarkable impact across the supply chain—whether in engineering, sales, marketing, or R D. Nominations for the 2026 20 Under 30 Award are now open, providing the opportunity to recognize and honor the next wave of industry trailblazers.The series spotlights these rising stars for their career achievements, commitment to innovation, leadership skills, and dedication to driving both business success and community growth.Follow their inspiring journeys and discover how they are thriving and paving the way for future generations in the semiconductor world.Meet David Coenen, Senior Researcher at imecFrom an early curiosity about how things work to leading advanced research in photonics and thermal management, David Coenen has built his career around understanding and improving complex technologies. His interest in engineering first led him to study aerospace engineering, where he was introduced to nanotechnology and semiconductor systems. What initially seemed abstract gradually became an area he wanted to explore in depth.This growing interest led him to pursue a PhD, where he developed a strong foundation in semiconductor research. Today, Coenen contributes to advancing technologies that support high-performance computing, data centers, and AI applications, working at the intersection of multiple disciplines to address some of the industry’s most demanding challenges. SEMI: What inspired you to join the semiconductor industry? Coenen: I’ve been fascinated by technology for a long time. Ever since I was little, I’ve been eager to learn how things work, from machines to cars and airplanes. This motivated me to study aerospace engineering. During my studies, nanotechnology and semiconductors kept appearing. At first, it felt almost like magic that a piece of silicon could run complex programs. Over time, I developed a deeper understanding and wanted to explore research further. In Belgium, imec is a well-known R D institute, and I decided to pursue a PhD there to give my career a strong foundation. I also believe the semiconductor industry will have a major impact on the future of society, and I want to contribute to that.SEMI: How did your early experiences and education shape your career path?Coenen: When I was around nine or ten years old, I visited imec during a school trip and learned about computer chips. That experience stayed with me. Later, during my engineering studies, I was mentored by teachers who were passionate about science and technology. Their guidance encouraged me to push my boundaries and try things outside of my comfort zone.SEMI: Can you share a professional accomplishment you’re most proud of, and explain why it’s significant to you?Coenen: I received the Best Paper Award for a conference paper submitted to iTherm and was later awarded the Harvey Rosten Award for Excellence for the same work. This is particularly meaningful to me because the initial draft received very negative feedback. I was told it was not innovative enough and advised not to submit it to my preferred conference. From this experience, I learned an important lesson: know your worth and do not assume someone is right simply because they have more experience.SEMI: As a young professional in the industry, what is your greatest challenge? Coenen: I work in photonics and chip thermal management, which is a rapidly evolving field. Keeping up with the latest technologies and developments can be challenging. These chips are used in data centers and large AI and machine learning systems, which are in high demand. Another challenge is finding master’s or Ph.D. students to join my work. My research sits at the intersection of electronics, photonics, thermodynamics, and machine learning, which makes it highly specialized. SEMI: What advice would you give to younger generations aspiring to make an impact in this industry?Coenen: Rome was not built in one day. Developing skills and building a deep understanding of complex technologies takes time. Enjoy your studies and choose something you are passionate about. When you are passionate, learning becomes enjoyable. Think about how you want to impact the world and make it a better place. That gives you strong motivation to work hard. SEMI: How do you envision future work environments?Coenen: From my experience, having flexibility in how I plan my day and organize my work helps reduce stress. Not having a rigid schedule allows me to take breaks and reset my mind. Combined with hybrid working, this makes work more enjoyable and sustainable.SEMI: What impact has the 20 Under 30 Award had on your career? Coenen: I was very honored to receive this award. There are many researchers equally deserving, which makes it even more meaningful. The award allowed me to connect with people inside and outside my organization whom I would not normally interact with. It also increased my visibility and associated my name with excellence.Following 20 Under 30 JourneysDavid Coenen’s story highlights the curiosity, resilience, and commitment to excellence that define the next generation of semiconductor researchers. His work contributes to advancing technologies that support the growing demands of data processing and AI systems.The Rising Stars: 20 Under 30 blog series celebrates the exceptional talent and leadership driving the future of the semiconductor industry. Each of the young innovators honored is excelling in their respective fields while shaping the landscape of technology and business with their visionary approaches and dedication. Their stories exemplify the remarkable achievements and unwavering commitment that define the next generation of industry leaders. The series is intended to inspire and motivate future professionals to pursue their passions and embrace the opportunities within this dynamic industry. Stay tuned for more stories of rising stars who are paving the way for continued growth and innovation in the semiconductor world.Learn more about the SEMI Europe 20 Under 30 Award and the recipients honored at SEMICON Europa. If this is of interest and you would like to explore further workforce related topics, we invite you to learn more about ChipQuest. SEMI ContactJames Lam, Business Development ManagerEmail: [email protected]

The Rising Stars: 20 Under 30 blog series celebrates the brightest young leaders shaping the future of the semiconductor industry. These exceptional individuals have earned the SEMI Europe 20 Under 30 Award for making a remarkable impact across the supply chain—whether in engineering, sales, marketing, or R D. Nominations for the 2026 20 Under 30 Award are now open, providing the opportunity to recognize and honor the next wave of industry trailblazers.The series spotlights these rising stars for their career achievements, commitment to innovation, leadership skills, and dedication to driving both business success and community growth.Follow their inspiring journeys and discover how they are thriving and paving the way for future generations in the semiconductor world.Meet Pascal Fasel, Project Manager Engineering at Comet X-rayPascal Fasel’s career in semiconductors has developed steadily through hands-on experience and continuous learning. Starting with an apprenticeship in 2012, he built his foundation across design, process, and project roles, gaining a practical understanding of how technologies move from concept to production.Over time, he discovered a strong interest in solving real-world problems and delivering reliable engineering solutions. Today, as Project Manager Engineering at Comet X-ray, Fasel focuses on guiding projects through complexity while balancing speed, precision, and quality in a fast-evolving industry. SEMI: What inspired you to join the semiconductor industry? Fasel: I did not have a single defining moment. I joined through an apprenticeship in 2012 and discovered semiconductors gradually. As my responsibilities grew, I realized that I enjoy solving problems and turning ideas into reliable solutions. Over the past three years, I have mainly worked on semiconductor projects, which confirmed this interest. I am motivated by the fast pace, the need for precision and quality, and the impact of bringing new technology into production. It is this combination that keeps me engaged.SEMI: How did your early experiences and education shape your career path?Fasel: My apprenticeship taught me hands-on skills and the importance of quality and safety. Working across design, process, and project roles helped me understand how systems fit together and where problems arise. I am currently studying industrial engineering part-time while working. My studies and work reinforce each other, with theory supporting practice and projects testing what I learn. These experiences keep me focused on preparing technology for production.SEMI: Can you share a professional accomplishment you’re most proud of, and explain why it’s significant to you?Fasel: The accomplishment that matters most to me is my steady growth at Comet. Since joining in 2012, I have worked across design, process, and project roles. Staying for over a decade has been less about titles and more about trust, learning, and supporting colleagues when challenges arise. This is important to me because it reflects consistency and shared responsibility. It has allowed me to contribute to projects from idea to production in a reliable way.SEMI: As a young professional in the industry, what is your greatest challenge? Fasel: My greatest challenge is balancing speed with quality in a changing environment while ensuring smooth handovers to production. Specifications can change, results can be unexpected, and timelines can shift. To manage this, I focus on learning quickly without cutting corners. I make changes small and reversible, identify risks early, and seek feedback regularly. The goal is to learn efficiently and reduce surprises. SEMI: What advice would you give to younger generations aspiring to make an impact in this industry?Fasel: Stay curious and build a habit of learning every day. You will not master everything at once. Projects move quickly, so remain flexible and start with small steps. Gain experience early through internships or student projects. Apply what you learn in practice. Ask clear questions, listen carefully, and stay open to different perspectives. Share credit when things go well and take responsibility when they do not. Be patient. Steady progress is more effective than big jumps. Focus on quality and safety, even under pressure, and build trust through consistency.SEMI: How do you envision future work environments?Fasel: I believe workplaces will become more flexible and people-focused. Clear goals, open communication, and early feedback will be essential. Collaboration will be hybrid, with time in the office used when it adds value. Teams will focus more on outcomes rather than hours, working in small, manageable steps to reduce risk and stay aligned.SEMI: What impact has the 20 Under 30 Award had on your career? Fasel: I am grateful for the recognition. It has not changed my daily work, but it has created opportunities to connect with others, learn from peers, and share experiences. It also provides a platform to encourage students and early-career professionals to explore this industry. For me, it is a reminder to stay consistent and continue supporting others.Following 20 Under 30 JourneysPascal Fasel’s story reflects the value of persistence, practical experience, and continuous improvement. His work highlights how steady progress and collaboration contribute to delivering reliable semiconductor solutions.The Rising Stars: 20 Under 30 blog series celebrates the exceptional talent and leadership driving the future of the semiconductor industry. Each of the young innovators honored is excelling in their respective fields while shaping the landscape of technology and business with their visionary approaches and dedication. Their stories exemplify the remarkable achievements and unwavering commitment that define the next generation of industry leaders. The series is intended to inspire and motivate future professionals to pursue their passions and embrace the opportunities within this dynamic industry. Stay tuned for more stories of rising stars who are paving the way for continued growth and innovation in the semiconductor world.Learn more about the SEMI Europe 20 Under 30 Award and the recipients honored at SEMICON Europa. If this is of interest and you would like to explore further workforce related topics, we invite you to learn more about ChipQuest. SEMI ContactJames Lam, Business Development ManagerEmail: [email protected]

The semiconductor industry continues to grow at an unprecedented pace and so does the demand for highly skilled employees at all levels in the industry. With the focus on reshoring manufacturing in the United States, we are increasingly faced with two questions: 1) how to identify talent that is ready to work today with the skills and experience that they already have and 2) how to best prepare a workforce for tomorrow, to meet the estimated shortage of 59,000-146,000 technicians and engineers by 2029. The SEMI Foundation – the workforce development arm of SEMI – provides solutions to address the talent gap and more through programs such as SEMI Credentialing. This innovative effort that helps employers identify talent, jobseekers communicate their work readiness, and training and education providers align their programs to industry needs.SEMI Equipment Maintenance Technician CertificationIndustry subject matter experts who provided initial inputs for the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA) of an Equipment Maintenance Technician.The SEMI Foundation is building out the first nationally accredited, industry-recognized Equipment Maintenance Technician Certification. In collaboration with industry leaders like Micron, GlobalFoundries, Intel, Western Digital, TEL, Onto Innovation, and others, we have identified the key competencies for equipment maintenance technicians. Individuals from 45 companies across 16 states have provided technical subject matter expertise, resulting in one of the most regionally diverse and comprehensive certification offerings to date. Our partner, NOCTI, an ISO-certified credentialing provider, is in the final stages of developing the certification exam. Our two-part certification exam includes 100 multiple choice questions that assess a candidate’s knowledge of safety, quality, electrical and mechanical principles, maintenance principles, and semiconductor industry awareness, as well as a hands-on electrical and pneumatic skills-based performance task. Educators from 12 community colleges and universities across the United States developed the questions, ensuring the highest academic standards and rigor. This certification will allow job seekers to demonstrate their readiness and create clear pathways into technician roles for qualified individuals regardless of their previous training. Furthermore, the Equipment Maintenance Technician certification will establish a national source of truth for curriculum alignment made available to training providers and educators and ensure relevance and continuity through routine industry review. The SEMI Equipment Maintenance Technician Certification will launch regionally in Spring 2026. National roll-out is scheduled for Fall 2026, and we encourage training and industry partners to connect with us directly to ensure early access to the certification.SEMI Endorsement of Programs and CoursesPartners from 12 community colleges and universities provided their expertise in developing test questions for the SEMI Certification.The SEMI Foundation is endorsing programs that prepare entry-level workers for success in the semiconductor industry. Since 2024, we have endorsed programs at Austin Community College, Foothill College, NY Creates, and WGNStar. These programs, and others like it, are emblematic of what strong partnerships between academia and industry can look like. Learners seeking programs can look to these as options for their education. Receiving SEMI Endorsement for Programs and Courses conveys that: Learners who are new to the semiconductor industry and successfully complete the program will be well-prepared for entry-level roles; Program completers have had exposure to fundamental semiconductor industry information and context, as well as introductory hands-on experience; Completers of these programs have the specific knowledge and skills required for entry level positions; andProgrammatic design and content have been informed through input and feedback from local industry partners.As we continue to expand the portfolio of programs and courses that the SEMI Foundation endorses, we are looking increasingly at programs with strong industry alignment and clear pathways for learners once they complete their training, be that apprenticeships, additional training, or direct access into the workforce.Microcredentials and MoreThe SEMI Foundation is a leader in convening stakeholders across academia and industry in support of workforce development initiatives. This unique ability to bring together diverse perspectives positions us to play a central role in shaping the future of skill validation. Microcredentials address several key changes and trends in training, including the rising costs of education coupled with an increased appetite for hands-on learning opportunities. Microcredentials are stackable, adaptable, and aligned directly with workforce demands. Learners can build competencies step-by-step. Employers can identify specific skill sets with greater precision. Education providers can modernize programs to reflect emerging technologies and evolving roles. We are forming panels and committees to explore the idea of microcredentials, as our partners are looking to us for innovative ways to recognize short-form training programs, amplify opportunities for individuals in up-and-coming regions, and continue to connect our partners in service of workforce solutions. In addition, the SEMI Foundation is exploring the provision of badges to teachers, career counselors, and other educators to demonstrate their knowledge and awareness of semiconductor careers.As we continue to drive solutions and add value to the world of credentials, we look forward to ongoing conversation and collaboration with partners. Every conversation we engage in about credentialing strengthens our offering and ability to provide solutions to the semiconductor industry’s growing workforce demands. Anissa Hamdon-Morison is Manager, Curriculum Developer Training at the SEMI Foundation

On December 13, SEMI submitted its response to a Request for Information (RFI) from the U.S. Department of Commerce (the Department) regarding the newly launched American Artificial Intelligence (AI) Exports Program. The intent of this program is to position U.S. firms as global leaders in AI by connecting them with international buyers, leveraging the Department's export promotion tools and supporting industry-led consortia through targeted government backing. By issuing this RFI, the Department intends to solicit input on the development of industry-led consortia capable of delivering full-stack American AI export packages under the American AI Exports Program. Working with member companies, the SEMI Public Policy and Advocacy (PP A) team developed a response highlighting the importance of the semiconductor supply chain to the AI ecosystem, and offering various recommendations for consortium formation, federal support, strategic objectives, and proposal evaluation. The response was informed by direct discussions between SEMI PP A and Department officials implementing the program. Some of the key aspects of SEMI's response include the following:Broader AI Tech Stack Definition: The Department should recognize semiconductor manufacturing technologies, mature node semiconductors, and energy/environmental control systems as foundational elements of the AI technology stack. Evaluation Framework: Evaluation criteria for consortium proposals should align with CHIPS for America requirements and guardrails, focusing on national security, economic competitiveness, and commercial viability, as well as infrastructure needs.Consortia Governance: Consortia should be industry-led and feature: honest brokers capable of coordinating commercial actors while advancing national interest objectives; modularity to ensure that the various technology layers function as distinct yet interoperable units; and clear frameworks for intellectual property protections and regulatory compliance. Foreign Participation: Vetted foreign entities should be allowed to participate in the program in order to reflect the global nature of the AI ecosystem and to strengthen allied and partner nation supply chain resilience.Federal Support Mechanisms: The Department should leverage the unique capabilities of the National Institute for Standards and Technology, Center for AI Standards and Innovation, Bureau of Industry and Security, Export-Import Bank, Development Finance Corporation, and others, including expedited licensing, financing tools, tax incentives, and interagency liaisons to accelerate exports. National Security Compliance: SEMI's comments emphasize robust compliance programs, cybersecurity, supply chain security, and risk-based licensing to prevent misuse or diversion of AI technologies. Global Competitiveness and Standards: SEMI urges rapid implementation, international promotion of U.S. AI technologies, and leadership in global standards to ensure interoperability and trusted adoption worldwide.SEMI is grateful for the feedback provided by our member companies in developing this comprehensive response to the Department's RFI. Visit SEMI Global Advocacy to learn more about public policy efforts and developments as well as how your company or organization can get involved.Ben Kallen is Sr. Manager, Public Policy Advocacy at SEMI.