News Releases

February 24, 2025

FABrIC, a five-year project to secure Canada’s future in semiconductors managed by CMC Microsystems, has formed a strategic partnership with SECTR, Canada’s Semiconductor Ecosystem & Center for Talent & Research. Under this partnership, FABrIC and SECTR will develop and deliver training programs to address the talent gap in semiconductor design and development. 

One of the pillars of FABrIC, made possible by a $120M investment by the Government of Canada, is training a pool of semiconductor Highly Qualified Personnel (HQP) in Canada. Our industry partners in Canada have delivered a clear message: Demand for semiconductor talent is very high, and businesses are concerned that there is a shortage of Highly Qualified Personnel (HQP) to meet their needs. The initiatives FABrIC and SECTR are developing will strengthen the talent pipeline while growing the Canadian semiconductor ecosystem.

Demand for semiconductor HQP is high, and growing 

We are more dependent on semiconductors than ever. Semiconductors (or chips) are the backbone of all modern electronics, and are necessary for everything from streaming content, updating social media, ordering online services, driving any modern car, and more. With new IoT and AI-based products being introduced daily, demand for semiconductors – and the talent to design the next generation of semiconductors – will grow sharply. In this context, it is crucial that Canadian industry has the talent necessary to compete and thrive in the global marketplace.

OTTAWA, CANADA | April 4, 2024

Canada’s Semiconductor Council (CSC) announced that the Semiconductor Ecosystem & Centre for Talent & Research in Canada (SECTR) is now an official member of the national semiconductor industry association. SECTR is an initiative originated by Larry Kostiuk, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Design at Carleton University in Ottawa, Ontario. Led by Jeff McNamee, a seasoned business leader in the technology domain, SECTR’s focus is to champion the growth of semiconductor talent for the exploding demand in this field. Driven by deglobalization and reshoring in North America, projections indicate industry demand for skilled talent will double over the next five years.

A new report, published by the Welsh Economy Research Unit at Cardiff University, highlights the economic contribution of Compound Semiconductor Applications (CSA) Catapult, the UK’s authority on compound semiconductor applications and commercialization.

Chips power our world. Join us for a glimpse into some of the most complex technologies that have ever been invented: the infinitely small technologies that animate everything from consumer goods to cars. You’ll be surprised and delighted to learn how Canada fits into this world – and the Canadian innovators and innovations inventing the future. Join us from October 7- November 7, 2024 for a “Semi-celebration” of the very small devices that have a very big impact.