New initiative launched to tackle training needs in the UK semiconductor industry

A new project aimed at addressing the training needs of the UK semiconductor industry has been launched through a collaboration between several key players in the sector, including semiconductor IP source Semiwise, industry body TechWorks, the National Microelectronics Institute (NMI), and Pragmatic Semiconductor as a consultant. The initiative, referred to as VRSFT (Virtual Reality Semiconductor Training Facility), seeks to enhance the skills of personnel in the semiconductor manufacturing sector, which is experiencing a significant demand for skilled labour.

TechWorks CEO Charles Sturman highlighted the importance of the initiative, stating, “In the UK, we have numerous small to medium sized specialist chip companies looking to expand their operations. VRSFT will enable these companies to train staff at any time, without operational disruption and at low cost. TechWorks is excited to be supporting this activity through our NMI Network.” This underscores the project’s dual focus on flexibility in training schedules and cost-effectiveness, appealing particularly to smaller enterprises in the industry.

The impetus behind VRSFT stems from broader global trends, including the US and EU Chips Acts, as well as the UK’s Semiconductor Programme, which are collectively pushing for advancements in semiconductor production. According to Semiwise, “The project addresses the acute training needs of the semiconductor industry… by 2030 more than one million new semiconductor experts will be needed.” This anticipates a substantial growth in the sector, necessitating a well-trained workforce equipped to meet future demands.

VRSFT leverages cutting-edge technology, including virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), to provide an immersive training experience. The facility will feature a model of a modern semiconductor fabrication environment, offering trainees the opportunity to interact with realistic representations of fabrication equipment. This approach allows for hands-on learning about the semiconductor manufacturing process in a simulated setting that mirrors actual production conditions.

Asen Asenov, CEO of Semiwise, elaborated on the educational advantages of this training model, stating, “Opposite to the typical walk-through-a-clean-room educational videos, it has deep educational content at equipment, product fabrication, working practice and behaviour levels.” The project aims to provide comprehensive insights into semiconductor fabrication, enhanced by the integration of Synopsys TCAD tools that illustrate the outcomes of various stages in the semiconductor manufacturing process.

Asenov, a notable figure in the field, has a background as the founder of Gold Standard Simulations (GSS), a company developed around a CAD-based design technology tool chain. Following its acquisition by Synopsis in 2016, GSS’s tools continue to evolve in Glasgow, contributing to advancements in the semiconductor training landscape.

This initiative not only reflects the escalating demand for semiconductor professionals but also highlights the innovative methods being adopted to meet training challenges in the industry, potentially transforming how expertise is developed in the semiconductor field.

Source: Noah Wire Services