The Race For Semiconductor Custom Chip Is Only Getting Started

Semiconductor custom chips, also known as application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), represent a specialized category of electronic components designed to perform specific functions or tasks within electronic devices.

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THREAD

U.S. semiconductor industry shows aging workforce, underrepresentation of women (30% women, 70% men), highlighting need for diverse, young talent. Read and learn more about this topic.

For CE/EE undergraduates eyeing semiconductor jobs, there's no simple answer between internships or publications. Internships offer industry insight and better job prospects, while publications distinguish students and improves profile with time. Combining both prepares student for both industry and academia. Students should aim for reputable journals and work with faculty, but remember, good grades also matter.

I published my thoughts on semiconductor and India. Article appears as part of the February issue of Electronics For You Express magazine.

Taiwan, led by TSMC, dominates the global semiconductor fabrication industry, particularly in sub-10nm technology with a 62.6% capacity share in 2023. It's the only producer of 3nm chips and plans for 2nm production by 2025. With 21.4% of global fabrication capacity, Taiwan's strategic planning and execution make it a formidable leader, raising questions about the competitiveness of emerging facilities in countries like India.

Delaying the establishment of a semiconductor FAB in India could significantly hinder its position in the global market due to high setup costs, insufficient R&D spending, and increased global competition. An early start would have allowed for cost savings, reduced foreign dependency through indigenous technology development, and capitalized on the booming semiconductor market. Operationalizing a FAB takes about 5 years, and a timely entry could create thousands of jobs, boost GDP, and improve India's global supply chain standing. As of 2024, there's hope for a solid FAB plan to materialize in India.

VLOG

In the fast-paced semiconductor industry, distinguishing oneself and gaining relevant experience is crucial for students and professionals starting their careers. The debate between pursuing internships and focusing on publications is significant, as each path offers different benefits and challenges that can impact long term success in this field.In the fast-paced semiconductor industry, distinguishing oneself and gaining relevant experience is crucial for students and professionals starting their careers.

GOVERNMENT

Plug and Play accelerateAZ, a program of the Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA), announced today NXP Semiconductors as the newest corporate partner in the Advanced Manufacturing Accelerator program, joining previously-announced partners Intel, Honeywell Aerospace, and Raytheon Missiles & Defense. Plug and Play accelerateAZ will connect Advanced Manufacturing Accelerator program startups to NXP Semiconductors to foster further collaboration. The Advanced Manufacturing Accelerator partnership builds on NXP’s relationship with Plug and Play as an anchor partner in STARTUP AUTOBAHN, Plug and Play’s flagship open innovation platform that connects startups with industry-leading corporate partners.

INDUSTRY

Sam Altman eyes semiconductor industry, in talks to raise nearly $7 trillion to boost AI chip production. After the generative artificial intelligence (AI) space, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman is reportedly setting his sights on a new frontier: the semiconductor industry. According to a Wall Street Journal report published on Thursday, Altman is engaged in conversations with investors, including those from the United Arab Emirates, to secure trillions in funding aimed at bolstering global production of chips specifically designed for AI technology.

Israeli chipmaker Tower closes in on $8 billion fabrication plant in India. If Tower’s proposal is accepted by the government, it would be the first semiconductor company with real fabrication pedigree to join India’s $10 billion chip manufacturing scheme, and will be a big boost to New Delhi’s chipmaking ambitions.

ACADEMIA

Semiconductor forum highlights CU Boulder’s leadership in advancing technology and building workforce. CU Boulder hosted a first-of-its-kind Colorado Semiconductor Workforce and Innovation Forum last week in partnership with the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT). Leaders in academia, industry and state and federal agencies came together on the CU Boulder campus for a packed afternoon of dynamic discussions around the challenges of, and opportunities for, sustaining and supercharging the state’s robust semiconductor ecosystem—while building workforce.

RESEARCH

U.S. touts $11 billion R&D program. The White House on Friday touted the U.S. government's plan to spend $11 billion on semiconductor-related research and development and said it was launching the $5 billion National Semiconductor Technology Center.

TOOLS

Makerchip provides free and instant access to the latest tools directly from your browser and from your desktop. This includes open-source tools and proprietary ones.

JOBS

India Semiconductor Mission has several openings. Ranging from finance to managerial: [LINK]

CONNECT

Whether you are a student with the goal to enter semiconductor industry (or even academia) or a semiconductor professional or someone looking to learn more about the ins and outs of the semiconductor industry, please do reach out to me.

Let us together explore the world of semiconductor and the endless opportunities:

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