Synopsys and SEMI Foundation Partner to Drive Workforce Development in the Semiconductor Industry
In a landmark move to address the growing talent gap in the semiconductor industry, Synopsys, Inc. (Nasdaq: SNPS) and the SEMI Foundation have announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at Synopsys’ corporate headquarters in Sunnyvale, California. This strategic collaboration aims to advance workforce development within the semiconductor chip design sector, a critical area facing an unprecedented demand for skilled professionals. With predictions estimating that the global semiconductor industry will need to fill over one million additional jobs by 2030, equivalent to 100,000 jobs annually, initiatives like this are essential to bridging the talent gap and shaping the innovators of tomorrow.
Why Workforce Development Matters
The semiconductor industry is at the heart of technological innovation, powering everything from smartphones and autonomous vehicles to artificial intelligence and renewable energy solutions. However, the rapid pace of technological advancement has created a significant shortage of skilled workers capable of designing and developing next-generation chips. To meet this challenge, partnerships between industry leaders and educational organizations are crucial. By fostering education, training, and career pathways, Synopsys and the SEMI Foundation aim to create a robust pipeline of talent ready to drive the future of semiconductor innovation.
A Shared Vision for Education and Training
Under the MoU, Synopsys and the SEMI Foundation will collaborate on a range of education and training programs designed to engage diverse audiences, including K-12 students, academic institutions, and military veterans transitioning to civilian careers. These initiatives will focus on enhancing chip design workforce development both in the United States and internationally, ensuring that the global semiconductor ecosystem remains competitive and innovative.
Key areas of collaboration include:
- Specialized Education Programs: The two organizations will jointly develop tailored programs aimed at introducing students to the exciting world of semiconductor design. By providing hands-on learning experiences and access to cutting-edge technologies, these programs will inspire the next generation of engineers and designers.
- Support for Military Veterans: Recognizing the valuable skills possessed by military service members, the partnership will offer targeted training programs to help veterans transition into civilian careers in the semiconductor industry. This initiative aligns with broader efforts to expand participation in high-tech fields.
- Academic and Industry Partnerships: Synopsys and the SEMI Foundation will work closely with universities and industry experts to enhance existing curricula and develop new programs that address the evolving needs of the semiconductor sector.
Synopsys’ Commitment to Workforce Development
As a global leader in silicon-to-systems design, Synopsys has long been committed to fostering workforce development through its SARA (Synopsys Academic & Research Alliances) program. SARA empowers the workforce of tomorrow by enabling access to cutting-edge technologies, fostering shared programs, and partnering with universities to build a diverse and inclusive semiconductor workforce.
This collaboration with the SEMI Foundation builds on Synopsys’ existing efforts, further strengthening the pipeline of skilled talent needed to support the semiconductor industry’s continued growth. By leveraging its expertise and resources, Synopsys aims to position itself as the preferred technology partner for workforce development initiatives worldwide.
Leadership Perspectives on the Partnership
Katy Crist, Director of Workforce Development at Synopsys and a member of the SEMI Foundation Board of Trustees, emphasized the importance of this collaboration:
“I have been honored to be a part of the SEMI Foundation Board of Trustees for over five years. This partnership has been instrumental in driving forward a shared vision for a diverse and skilled workforce in the microelectronics sector. By leveraging our combined expertise and resources, we aim to make a tangible impact on the industry’s ability to attract, develop, retain, and advance an inclusive and skilled workforce.”
Shari Liss, Vice President of Global Workforce Development & Initiatives at SEMI, echoed this sentiment:
“Workforce development is critical for driving the semiconductor industry’s continued growth and innovation. We are excited to announce our strategic partnership with Synopsys to advance education and training initiatives that engage, inform, and inspire the next generation of high-tech talent in the United States and abroad. Launching in 2025, our first program will focus on training students, educators, and military service members transitioning to civilian careers to expand participation in the chip design sector. Through this collaboration, the SEMI Foundation will further its mission to foster economic opportunity and equip semiconductor companies with the skilled talent they need to succeed.”
Program Launch and Future Goals
The first joint program under this partnership is set to launch in 2025 and will focus on training students, educators, and military service members transitioning to civilian careers. By expanding participation in the chip design sector, the initiative aims to create a more inclusive and diverse workforce capable of addressing the industry’s most pressing challenges.
Through hands-on workshops, mentorship opportunities, and access to state-of-the-art tools and technologies, participants will gain the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the semiconductor industry. These programs will also emphasize the importance of diversity and inclusion, ensuring that individuals from all backgrounds have the opportunity to contribute to the future of technology.
The Bigger Picture: Strengthening the Global Semiconductor Ecosystem
This collaboration between Synopsys and the SEMI Foundation is more than just a partnership—it’s a commitment to shaping the future of the semiconductor industry. By investing in education and training programs, the two organizations are not only addressing the immediate talent shortage but also laying the foundation for long-term innovation and growth.
As the demand for semiconductors continues to rise, driven by advancements in AI, IoT, and other transformative technologies, the need for a skilled workforce has never been greater. By working together, Synopsys and the SEMI Foundation are ensuring that the global semiconductor ecosystem remains resilient, competitive, and capable of meeting the challenges of tomorrow.
How You Can Get Involved
For those interested in learning more about this initiative or exploring opportunities to participate, visit the SEMI Foundation website or connect with Synopsys’ SARA program. Together, we can inspire the next generation of innovators and ensure a brighter future for the semiconductor industry.
With this groundbreaking partnership, Synopsys and the SEMI Foundation are paving the way for a more inclusive, skilled, and innovative semiconductor workforce—one that will power the technologies of tomorrow.
