Synopsys Teams Up with SEMI Foundation to Drive Workforce Development Initiatives in Semiconductor Industry

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Synopsys, Inc. and the SEMI Foundation today announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at Synopsys’ corporate headquarters in Sunnyvale, Calif. to advance workforce development within the semiconductor chip design sector. It’s predicted1 the global industry will need to fill over one million additional semiconductor jobs by 2030, equivalent to 100,000 jobs annually highlighting the crucial need for workforce development programs. Collaborations like this one are essential to bridging the chip design talent gap and shaping the innovators of tomorrow. Together, Synopsys and SEMI Foundation will engage in opportunities to collaborate on education and training programs with academic institutions and industry experts to enhance chip design workforce development both in the United States and internationally. The two organizations will also jointly develop specialized education and training programs designed for K-12 students, academic institutions, and military veterans, providing support and resources across the talent development spectrum.

 (L-R) SEMI Vice President of Global Workforce Development & Initiatives Shari Liss, Synopsys Director of Workforce Development and SEMI Foundation Board of Trustees Member Katy Crist and Synopsys Academic & Research Alliance (SARA) Executive Director Dr. Patrick Haspel signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Thursday, Jan 16, 2025 at Synopsys Corporate Headquarters in Sunnyvale, Calif.

As a global silicon to systems design leader, Synopsys, through its SARA (Synopsys Academic & Research Alliances) program, has been an active participant in workforce development activities worldwide. SARA empowers the workforce of tomorrow by enabling access to cutting-edge technologies, developing shared programs, and partnering on advanced collaborations to support universities in building a diverse semiconductor workforce ready to invent the technology of the future. This collaboration with the SEMI Foundation will strengthen the pipeline of skilled talent to benefit the global semiconductor ecosystem and align with Synopsys’ goal to be the preferred technology partner-of-choice for workforce development.

"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," said Katy Crist, Director of Workforce Development at Synopsys and SEMI Foundation Board of Trustees Member. 

"Workforce development is critical for driving the semiconductor industry’s continued growth and innovation," said Shari Liss, Vice President, Global Workforce Development & Initiatives at SEMI. "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."