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Semiconductor Talent Award: Welcoming the Next Generation of Semiconductor Talent
By Stewart Edmondson
The 400 undergraduates who joined us at the Semiconductor Talent Award Induction Events across the UK in September represent the next generation of talent for our industry, and their enthusiasm and ambition highlight an exciting future ahead.
Taking place in Birmingham, Glasgow and London, the Induction Events had a palpable energy, driven by meeting like-minded individuals, a strong sense of community and a determination to make the most of the opportunity.
These events, held before the students had even formally begun their courses, were an important first step for the Award-holders pathway into the semiconductor sector. Award-holders learned more about the exciting, fast-growing sector, supporting their passion for technology with real-world context. Watch our video of the London event here:
About the Award
The Semiconductor Talent Award helps to build a robust pathway into our sector. It aims to ensure that upon graduation, Award-holders studying EEE, Physics, Computer Science and Materials science, have the skills and understanding to hit the ground running in their early career.
This year we have welcomed 403 students to the scheme, building on the 300 who received the Award in 2025.
Those joining the initiative this year will have access to unique opportunities, including:
- Webinars from industry experts
- In-person events to connect with companies in our sector
- Mentoring
- A cohort community
- A bursary to support their studies and pursue their individual projects.
Highlights from the Induction Events
We were delighted to be joined by undergraduates at 43 universities across the three events, and of those in attendance, 40% were female, representing positive progress towards improving gender balance.
The events were an opportunity to connect with industry professionals and begin to build their personal network, which will support them throughout their time on the programme and beyond.
Despite some participants arriving a little apprehensive, by the time the opening presentations concluded, the atmosphere shifted to a vibrant community connected by shared interest.
A key part of the Semiconductor Talent Award is bringing together academic learning with insight and experience from industry. Award-holders heard from representatives from Department of Business, Innovation and Science, ARM, and Universities, who shared valuable sector insight as well as helpful, practical advice. They also had the opportunity to speak directly with employers who exhibited at the events. Employers included:
Investing in the future
The semiconductor industry is evolving rapidly, creating exciting opportunities for the engineers who will help shape what comes next.
For UKESF, the Semiconductor Talent Award is about taking a long-term view. Building a strong semiconductor talent pipeline will require sustained collaboration between industry, academia and organisations committed to supporting young people. By investing in people early in their careers, industry can help develop the talent and expertise that will support the UK’s semiconductor ecosystem for years to come.
