DESCRIPTION OF SECTOR
Compound Semiconductors provide the underpinning technology behind many of today’s high-tech products and applications including smart phones, sensors, and fibre optic communications. They function at speeds faster than traditional silicon-based semiconductors and offer photonic properties that are used in a wide range of sensor technologies and optical communications. They are a vital component of emerging technologies from 5G connectivity to industrial automation and driverless vehicles.
The sector is a priority for the wider Cardiff Capital Region which is home to large sector employers who are based along the M4 corridor. CSconnected is the world’s first compound semiconductor cluster and the collective brand for a growing number of advanced semiconductor companies including IQE, KLA, Microchip, MicroLink Devices UK, nexperia and Rockley Photonics. It should also be noted that the supply chain that feeds this sector and affiliated industries extends a lot further. In total, over £500m is being invested in the Compound Semiconductor Cluster with Cardiff University, Welsh and UK Governments, and local industry all investing.
KEY JOB ROLES
Key job roles within the sector include:
• Production Managers
• Engineering Technicians
• Electricians and Electrical Fitters
• Assemblers (electrical and electronic components)
• Machine Setters and Setter-operators
• Product Development Technicians
• Facilities Technician
• Calibration Technician
• Quality Engineers
• Product Development Technicians
SECTOR CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITES
The CCRSP Compound Semi-Conductor Cluster group identified the following opportunities & challenges for the CCRSP Employment & Skills Plan 2022-2025:
• Continue to develop fit for purpose qualifications in partnership with key stakeholders to help address skills shortages.
• Work to ensure that Apprenticeship Frameworks (including Degree Apprenticeships) reflect the needs of the sector and support delivery processes.
• Promote strategic relationships between the sector and Advanced Materials and Manufacturing (including pharmaceuticals, automotive and aviation) to support career change and/or development.
• Support the delivery of the CS Connected CPD activities and associated work plan.
• Build on approaches to careers education, information, advice and guidance to promote the sector as a viable career option.
• Support the development of an inclusive workforce and increase the number of females entering the Labour market.
• Work in partnership to research skills gaps and shortages and develop innovative and collaborative approaches to address identified challenges.
• Work with Welsh Government and stakeholders to ensure funded support for training is aligned the needs of the sector.
STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT
The CCRSP engages strategically with:
CS Connected https://csconnected.com/
IQE https://www.iqep.com/
SPTS https://www.spts.com/
Catapult https://csa.catapult.org.uk/
Microchip https://www.microchip.com/
KLA https://www.kla.com
Cardiff University https://www.cardiff.ac.uk/
Coleg Gwent https://www.coleggwent.ac.uk/
Merthyr College https://www.merthyr.ac.uk/
CAVC https://cavc.ac.uk/en
Cardiff Metropolitan University https://www.cardiffmet.ac.uk
USW https://www.southwales.ac.uk
OU https://www.open.ac.uk/wales/en
Rockley Photonics https://rockleyphotonics.com/
Bridgend College https://www1.bridgend.ac.uk/
NDGTA https://ndgta.org/
Coleg Y Cymoeed https://www.cymoedd.ac.uk
ICS https://www.iscwales.com/
