Germany’s new €12 million Microtec Academy aims to train skilled semiconductor workers. The intention is to strengthen its position in microelectronics and supporting the EU's production goals.
The German government has launched a initiative to address the semiconductor skills gap by establishing a €12 million skills academy focused on microelectronics and microsystem technology, eeNews Europe reports. Funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF), the project, titled Skilled Workers for Microelectronics: Skills4Chips, aims to equip Germany’s workforce with the expertise needed to support the nation's growing microelectronics sector.
A key part of the initiative is the new Microtec Academy, a national educational hub designed to deliver innovative training programs across the country. Coordinated by the Berlin-based Ferdinand-Braun-Institut (FBH), the academy will work with regional partners to meet the demand for skilled workers essential to Germany’s semiconductor goals. The European Union’s ambitious target of doubling Europe’s share of semiconductor production from 10% to 20% by 2030 under the European Chips Act further underscores the urgency for such training.
Source: eeNews Europe
The Microtec Academy will offer tailored educational pathways — from vocational training to university studies and reskilling programs for career changers.
“Our goal is to sustainably strengthen Germany’s position in microelectronics,” said Prof. Dr.-Ing. Patrick Scheele, FBH’s Scientific Managing Director. “The Microtec Academy creates a unique network that brings together educational institutions, universities, research centers, and industry.”
A virtual technology lab will further enhance flexibility, offering formats like online, hybrid, and hands-on courses. Additional collaborators, including Steinburg's vocational skills center, TU Braunschweig’s Institute of Microtechnology, and Silicon Saxony, will support this coordinated approach. The initiative will be presented as a flagship project in March 2025, with updates available soon at elektronikforschung.de.
Refer to eeNews Europe's article for more information. Editor's note: eeNews Europe is an Elektor International Media publication.
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