Press Release - ITE Partners with Leading Semiconductor Companies to Boost Microelectronics Training and Talent Development

21 January 2025 – To enhance training in microelectronics and nurture talents for the semiconductor industry, the Institute of Technical Education (ITE) has signed two new Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with leading semiconductor companies: Siltronic Singapore (comprising Siltronic Singapore Pte Ltd and Siltronic Silicon Wafer Pte Ltd) and Vanguard International Semiconductor Singapore Pte Ltd.

These partnerships were formalised at the annual Electronics Industry Day, Singapore’s largest student outreach event to IHLs for the semiconductor industry. Mr Alvin Tan, Minister of State, Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth & Ministry of Trade and Industry, witnessed the signing of the agreements. Details of the Electronics Industry Day programme can be found in the Annex.

Training the Next Generation of Microelectronics Professionals

Under the MOUs, Siltronic Singapore and Vanguard International Semiconductor Singapore will support ITE’s Work-Study Diploma (WSDip) in Microelectronics and other relevant courses. This involves providing internship, recruiting ITE graduates through the WSDip programme and providing advice on curriculum development. Such opportunities for ITE students will enable them to be cognizant of the exciting job roles and careers in the semiconductor industry and they could form the pipeline of skilled young talents for the companies. More than 500 ITE students will benefit from these initiatives.

Similarly, ITE will contribute to the workforce development of Siltronic Singapore and Vanguard International Semiconductor Singapore by assisting in the development of training blueprints and certification courses for their employees.

To promote sharing of best practices and knowledge, ITE and the partnering companies will collaborate on joint industry projects, and co-organise industry seminars, conferences and workshops for students, staff and industry professionals.

Ms Low Khah Gek, Chief Executive Officer of ITE, said, “The semiconductor sector is pivotal to Singapore’s economy and manufacturing output. As Singapore seeks to strengthen its position as a global semiconductor hub, the demand for skilled talent will grow stronger. These partnerships with leading industry players provide our students with valuable real-world exposure, equip them with authentic industry skills and experience, and inspire them to pursue careers in the semiconductor industry.”

Mr Niew Bock Cheng, President of Siltronic Singapore Pte Ltd and Siltronic Silicon Wafer Pte Ltd, said, “Siltronic is delighted to embark on this joint partnership with ITE. Integrating hands-on experiences into the academic curriculum under the Work-Study Diploma brings significant advantages by enabling students to become well-acquainted with the semiconductor industry. The diverse programmes outlined in the MOU will facilitate knowledge sharing and support innovation in our industry.”

Dr Goh Inn Swee, General Manager, Vanguard International Semiconductor Singapore, said, “We are excited to partner with ITE in nurturing the next generation of talent for the semiconductor industry. This collaboration demonstrates our commitment to cultivating a skilled workforce that is equipped to meet the growing demands of the sector and bridging academic learning with industry expertise. By offering training opportunities, internships, and curriculum support, we aim to not only provide valuable industry experience to ITE students but also contribute to the long-term success and innovation within the semiconductor field.” 

About the Electronics Industry Day

Jointly organised by the Singapore Semiconductor Industry Association (SSIA) and ITE, the annual Electronics Industry Day event features a career fair with more than 270 jobs, interactive booths hosted by leading semiconductor companies showcasing their cutting-edge technologies, educational exhibits by Institutes of Higher Learning featuring their engineering courses, and a range of workshops tailored to empower the next generation of talent in the semiconductor industry. With strong support from key government agencies and partners, including the Economic Development Board (EDB), JTC, Mentoring SG, National Youth Council (NYC), NTUC’s Employment and Employability Institute (e2i), and Workforce Singapore (WSG), the event offers students and job seekers a unique opportunity to explore diverse career paths within the semiconductor industry. For more information, visit: https://ssia.org.sg/.

Annex

Electronics Industry Day 2025

Tuesday, 21 January 2025

illuminITE Theatre, Block A, Level 2, ITE College Central,

2 Ang Mo Kio Drive, Singapore 567720

Programme