New survey to assess high-demand job skills in microelectronics

Responses are sought from professionals in various roles, including senior engineers, professors, researchers, and human resources representatives. The deadline for completing the survey is 28th June. Results will be published in September 2024.

Supported by SEMI Europe and organised by DECISION - Études & Conseil, the survey is developed by the European Chips Skills Academy (ECSA), an EU-funded initiative launched by a consortium of 18 partners from 12 countries.

The survey builds on the METIS project’s in-depth analysis of skills in the European microelectronics sector from 2020 to 2023. The survey enables the ECSA to evaluate relevant job profiles in the semiconductor industry, including new roles, positions in highest demand, and those with the highest skills shortage. DECISION Études & Conseil will use the survey to monitor hiring trends and craft public policy recommendations.

Léo Saint-Martin, Senior Consultant – Associate at DECISION Études & Conseil, said: “The survey is essential to analysing key workforce trends in Europe’s semiconductor sector and giving us strategic insights that will enable the ECSA to update the EU Microelectronics Skills Strategy. The results will also help us implement and operationalise the EU Pact for Skills.”

The ECSA’s mission is to help integrate the work of industry, research, and academia to develop innovative training and curricula to better meet the skills needs of Europe’s chip sector.

Christopher Frieling, Director of Advocacy and Public Policy at SEMI, said: “To increase its competitiveness and to achieve the ambitions of the EU Chips Act, the European microelectronics sector must overcome severe skills and talent shortages. The survey is part of a holistic initiative under the European Chips Skills Academy that aims to involve partners across the entire semiconductor value chain.”

The ECSA plans to repeat the survey in 2025, 2026, and 2027 to ensure that public policy recommendations reflect the semiconductor industry’s most pressing workforce needs.