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Strategic Partnership for Education: TRIREME Workshop at SIITME 2024

The TRIREME project took centre stage at the SIITME2024 Conference in Sibiu, Romania, with a dedicated workshop addressing the critical challenges facing the semiconductor and electronics industries. Organised by our partner the Association for Promoting Electronics Technology, the event brought together experts to discuss workforce development, technological advancements, and the future of industry-academia collaboration.

A key concern raised during the workshop was the growing shortage of skilled professionals in advanced packaging design and manufacturing. Participants emphasised the urgent need for reskilling, particularly as experienced employees face layoffs. The discussion underscored the necessity of preserving Europe’s semiconductor production capabilities and strengthening expertise in electronics module design and manufacturing.

Another crucial topic was the widening technological gap between students and educators, especially in the post-pandemic landscape. The high cost of hands-on experimentation was seen as a barrier to effective learning, yet practical experience remains essential for preparing future engineers. Early exposure to science and technology was highlighted as a vital strategy for inspiring young minds to pursue careers in the field.

Collaboration between universities and industry emerged as a pivotal factor in equipping students with real-world skills. Successful partnerships were praised for their positive impact on career development, with hackathons and innovative projects proving effective in attracting students to engineering disciplines. However, financial constraints and slow curriculum adaptation to industry needs were identified as significant obstacles. Providing scholarships and financial support was seen as crucial to enabling students to focus on their studies without the burden of full-time work.

The integration of digital tools and AI was recognised as a transformative force in education and industry alike. Furthermore, the role of mentors and role models was celebrated for their influence in guiding and inspiring the next generation of engineers. Continuous investment in research and development was deemed essential to maintaining a competitive edge in technology.

The TRIREME Workshop ultimately called for a unified approach to bridging the education-industry divide. By fostering collaboration, innovation, and strategic investment, the semiconductor and electronics sectors can build a skilled and resilient workforce, ready to meet the challenges of the future.