News: Suppliers
17 September 2025
Cardiff University report highlights urgent need to strengthen semiconductor skills in Wales
As part of the South Wales-based compound semiconductor cluster CSconnected Strength in Places Fund (SIPF) program funded by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), a new report published by the Welsh Economy Research Unit at Cardiff University highlights the urgent need for regionally responsive skills development to secure the future of the UK’s semiconductor industry. The report explores key challenges in talent pipeline development, workforce readiness, and the role of education and training in driving industrial growth.
The findings highlight a global shortage of STEM graduates entering semiconductor careers and calls for coordinated regional action to close skills gaps, support professional development, and raise awareness of the industry among students, educators, and parents.
“Skills are the foundation of our industry. From primary school outreach to continuing professional development (CPD) for experienced engineers, we’re building a roadmap that connects education to employment to rewarding careers,” says CSconnected’s skills manager Brandon Jones. “This report reinforces the need for long-term investment in STEM and vocational pathways, showing how regional clusters like ours can lead the way in shaping a national response,” he adds.
“This vision is already being put into action through the CSconnected Skills Plan, a strategic framework that outlines how we’re inspiring the next generation, guiding further education graduates into semiconductor careers, and upskilling the current workforce. Further investment is crucial to help us close the clearly evidenced skills gap.”
The report identifies several initiatives already underway in Wales, including the development of Level 2 and Level 4 semiconductor qualifications with the Welsh Joint Examination Committee (WJEC), the launch of the Semiconductor Skills Academy, and the delivery of CPD courses through Cardiff University. However, it also identifies key challenges, including limited apprenticeship availability, low public awareness of semiconductor careers, and the need for stronger public-private partnerships to help expand apprenticeship provision.
While talent supply has been a key driver of growth in the semiconductor industry, shortages in skills and labour have often constrained development even in well-established industrial regions.
In the latest CSconnected annual report, it was identified that insufficient labour and skills supply are the most critical risk factor currently facing the global semiconductor industry.
‘Evidence shows that those countries with a sustained commitment to developing relevant talent tend to have seen the strongest growth in their semiconductor industries,” notes Dr Mark Lang, research associate at the Welsh Economy Research Unit. “For firms, skills shortages can lead to reduced productivity and innovation. Building an appropriate skills-base is not only essential for industry’s expansion, however, it is also critical for broadening varied employment opportunities for local people.”
The new report concludes with eight key recommendations, including:
- investing in STEM education at all levels;
- expanding apprenticeship programs;
- promoting industry-specific training;
- increasing visibility of semiconductor careers;
- supporting ongoing professional development;
- facilitating international talent recruitment;
- enhancing coordination between education and industry;
- strengthening regional skills ecosystems.
Through initiatives such as CSconnected Sparking STEM (which introduces young people to semiconductor technology) and the new Fast-Track Integration Programme for Engineers developed by Cardiff University’s CPD Unit (designed to help engineers from other sectors transition into semiconductor roles), CSconnected and its partners are putting in place programs that directly address the report’s recommendations. Alongside new WJEC qualifications, CPD courses and the Semiconductor Skills Academy, these initiatives create a pathway from school outreach to professional re-skilling. But their success and the UK’s ability to build the skills base that industry urgently needs will depend on sustained and significant government investment to secure their long-term future and impact, says the report.
CSconnected is the world’s first compound semiconductor cluster, located in South Wales. Supported by the Strength in Places Fund (UK Research and Innovation) and Cardiff Capital Region, the cluster unites leading companies, research institutions, and government partners to drive innovation, economic growth, and global leadership in semiconductor technology.
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