A Talent Factory: The SRC Story

In our previous blog post, we revealed that 56% of individuals employed in the semiconductor industry possess a bachelor's or graduate degree. The industry relies heavily on a pool of STEM talent, which includes both degree-holders and skilled workers. However, due to the existing workforce talent shortfall and its projected increasing deficit, relying solely on universities may not be sufficient. As a solution, other scalable talent mechanisms will be necessary in the coming years. Thanks to its collaborative approach, including partnerships with DARPA, NSF, NIST and Industry, Semiconductor Research Corporation’s (SRC) programs have been successful in preparing a significant proportion (approximately 20%) of semiconductorPhD candidates in the United States. 

SRC is a special entity created by the semiconductor industry to meet its ever-growing needs for planning and execution of research and workforce development. Serving as a “Talent Factory,” SRC supplies hundreds of well-trained graduates each year to equipment and material suppliers, semiconductor fabs, foundries, and fabless design and chip makers. To accomplish this, SRC distributes industry investments to universities to ensure that industry-relevant research and education are properly funded. SRC then facilitates students’ involvement in SRC-funded projects and aids in the interface between students and industry in terms of internships and hires.  

SRC's Talent Factory is committed to developing talent within the semiconductor pipeline, with a particular emphasis on individuals pursuing higher education degrees. In line with this commitment, SRC has pledged to broaden participation by 2030. Over the next decade, SRC will focus on expanding its student base, developing a diverse and inclusive community, and establishing a balanced mix of bachelor's, master's, and PhD-level initiatives. As SRC defines, selects, and manages its research and education programs, it will prioritize these objectives to foster a thriving talent ecosystem. 

SRC aims to broaden its reach in the future by potentially forming partnerships with community colleges and diverse communities hoping to encourage individuals to pursue a career in microelectronics. While the primary focus of SRC is on expanding the degree talent pipeline, we recognize that non-degreed talent is also critical to the semiconductor pipeline—these skilled laborers comprise a significant portion of it. In upcoming blogs, we will delve into this topic further. 

What’s in SRC’s Secret Sauce? 

SRC offers research contracts to support academic research, and Research Scholars programs for undergraduates and graduates who are interested in the semiconductor and microelectronics fields. These contracts provide funding and resources to universities and their faculty members to conduct research in specific areas of interest to industry partners,as well as opportunities for collaboration, education, and networking. 

SRC’scollaborative approach offers valuable opportunities for students to gain practical research experience, access to industry professionals, and exposure to revolutionary technologies. The multi-disciplinary and goal-driven approach used in SRC programs provides education that enriches and prepares students in ways that traditional degree programs do not. 

In addition, various educational opportunities are offered in the form of eWorkshops, industry webinars, and talks at annual research reviews. Our member resources catalog contains a wealth of information provided by SRC members for the academic community and includes education, design, and prototyping. We encourage SRC researchers and students to utilize these resources to enhance their research and educational endeavors. 

Over the past 40 years, SRC has supported over 15,000 students. These students, or, rather, “SRC Research Scholars,” benefit in several ways, including: