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<p>The Government recognises the importance of talent for a thriving technology sector. During the development of the National Semiconductor Strategy, the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology engaged extensively with the semiconductor sector. This engagement highlighted access to skills as a barrier to growth in the sector.</p><p>Industry have told us that there is a global shortage of talent for semiconductors and that we need to work together to build the right technical skills and qualifications to meet the needs of industry. To meet the growing needs of the sector, the approach needs to be holistic across the whole skills pipeline from STEM education, apprenticeships, industry-led learning and attracting talent.</p><p>As set out in the recently published UK Science and Technology Framework, the government is committed to building a pipeline into STEM subjects that are core to future careers in the semiconductor sector - physics, mathematics, engineering and electronics.</p><p>The National Semiconductor Strategy outlines the actions the government is taking specifically in the semiconductor sector including, amongst others:</p><ul><li><p>Providing support for Centres for Doctoral Training through EPSRC. Since 2017, funding from EPSRC and the Science and Technology Facilities Council has also supported over 450 PhD students to begin semiconductor related research. Over the years EPSRC has supported a number of Centres for Doctoral Training. There are currently seven active Centres for Doctoral Training funded that support semiconductor related doctoral research. These Centres for Doctoral Training will produce the next generation of internationally recognised doctoral researchers.</p></li><li><p>Working to ensure that occupational standards for apprenticeships, higher technical qualifications (HTQs) and T-Levels meet the specific requirements of employers in the semiconductor sector to increase the flow of talented people into the industry.</p></li><li><p>The Department for Education’s (DfE) Institute of Technology programme which has been backed by £300 million of government capital investment. We are encouraging more employers in the semiconductor industry to engage with Institute of Technology programmes to ensure that the sector’s specialisms are better served through this novel education delivery mechanism.</p></li></ul><p>The Government will continue to engage with industry and academia on skills requirements as we implement the vision laid out in the Strategy, including through the new UK Semiconductor Advisory Panel. The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology will continue to work hand in hand with the Department for Education on this important issue.</p> |