Synopsys, Inc. and the SEMI Foundation have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance workforce development within the semiconductor chip design industry. The collaboration, announced at Synopsys’ headquarters in Sunnyvale, California, aims to address the growing need for skilled professionals in the semiconductor sector. With projections indicating the industry will need over one million additional semiconductor jobs by 2030, the MoU emphasizes the critical importance of developing educational and training programs to bridge the talent gap.
This partnership will focus on creating and expanding education and training programs in collaboration with academic institutions and industry experts, both in the U.S. and globally. Additionally, Synopsys and SEMI Foundation will jointly develop specialized programs for K-12 students, academic institutions, and military veterans to cultivate a diverse and skilled workforce capable of driving the next generation of semiconductor innovations.
As a global leader in silicon to systems design, Synopsys has been actively involved in workforce development through its SARA (Synopsys Academic & Research Alliances) program. SARA provides access to cutting-edge technologies and fosters collaborations to support universities in building a diverse semiconductor workforce. This new partnership with the SEMI Foundation further strengthens Synopsys’ commitment to advancing the semiconductor ecosystem and aligns with its goal to be the preferred technology partner for workforce development.
Katy Crist, Director of Workforce Development at Synopsys and SEMI Foundation Board of Trustees Member, highlighted the impact of this collaboration, saying, “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, Global Workforce Development & Initiatives at SEMI, emphasized the importance of workforce development in sustaining the industry’s 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.”
The collaboration will kick off in 2025, with the first program focused on training students, educators, and military service members transitioning to civilian careers to increase participation in the chip design sector. This initiative is part of the SEMI Foundation’s broader mission to foster economic opportunity and equip semiconductor companies with the skilled talent necessary for their continued success.
