Global turmoil impacts UK semiconductor skills

The UK government is facing a critical challenge in the semiconductor industry, with the skills gap threatening its position as a global power, according to the chief executive of UK TechWorks. Charles Sturman warned that without a strong semiconductor industry, the UK may lose its influence on the global stage within the next 15 years. Sturman expressed concern that senior government officials are not fully grasping the urgency of the situation, stating, "I don’t think they get that. I don’t think the senior members of the government realize the house is on fire."

As part of efforts to address this issue, the government has allocated £4.8 million to enhance the number of semiconductor engineers and bolster the design ecosystem in the UK. This initiative follows a damning report highlighting the skills gap in the semiconductor sector. The report underscores the need for immediate action to bridge the gap and ensure the UK remains competitive in the global tech landscape.

Sturman emphasized the importance of semiconductor technology, noting that while the government is beginning to recognize its significance, there is still room for improvement in prioritizing the industry. He highlighted the need for support in areas such as mixed signal silicon and power electronics, urging the government to invest in building robust supply chains to strengthen the semiconductor sector.

The Semiconductor Workforce Research Report revealed that only 870 graduates enter the industry annually, a figure that has remained stagnant in recent years. Additionally, a significant portion of engineers are set to retire in the next 15 years, posing a further challenge to the industry. To address these issues, the government has commissioned a consortium of advisors to develop actionable recommendations for enhancing the semiconductor workforce.

As part of the funding initiative, £3 million will be allocated for 300 bursaries to encourage engineers to transition into the semiconductor field. Specialized semiconductor content will be integrated into educational programs to raise awareness and attract talent to the industry. Furthermore, £1.2 million will be dedicated to chip design training, with a focus on practical skills development for students and educators.

Moreover, £550,000 will be allocated for school outreach programs aimed at providing hands-on semiconductor experience to students and teachers. By engaging with local employers and strengthening semiconductor clusters in key regions such as Newport, Cambridge, and Glasgow, the initiative aims to diversify the future semiconductor workforce and create long-term career opportunities.