Pathway into Semiconductors Programme
A 3-day introduction to the industry and its career opportunities in the South Wales region.
The application deadline is 17:00 on Friday 30 October 2026.
‘Pathway into Semiconductors’ is a Programme created to support engineers seeking to transition from sectors such as the armed forces, automotive, aviation, and wider manufacturing into the South Wales compound semiconductor industry, known as the CSconnected cluster.
This fully funded programme offers participants a comprehensive introduction to the industry, combining technical insight with practical experience. The programme aims to spark interest in this growing sector and support participants in exploring future career opportunities.
Pathway into Semiconductors Programme
What you’ll learn
- an understanding of the compound semiconductor industry and its supply chain
- how your existing skills can transfer into semiconductor roles
- an understanding of typical engineer roles employed by the CS cluster organisations, and the skills they seek
- an opportunity to participate in hands-on activities and see semiconductor technology in action
- experience of visiting at least one semiconductor facility
- an opportunity to meet HR/L&D/recruitment personnel from the CSconnected cluster companies and have the opportunity for 1-2-1 conversations
- access to several CPD short courses about the industry, in topics such as compound semiconductor electronics and photonics
Teaching and useful information
We are now taking applications for this 3-day programme.
Dates: 17-19 November 2026
Delivery: In person at the CS2 Compound Semiconductor Community Space in Newport (Day 1 and Day 3) and Cardiff University (Day 2).
Transport: Transport from Cardiff to Newport (Day 1 and 3) will be provided free of charge for those who wish to use this service.
Cost: This Programme is fully funded by UKRI’s Place Based Impact Acceleration Account project. There is no attendance fee for participants.
The application deadline is 17:00 on Friday 30 October 2026. Places are limited, so we reserve the right to close the application facility early.
Applicants will be notified whether they have been successful by no later than Friday 6 November 2026.
If you have been allocated a place and are subsequently unable to attend, please cancel promptly by emailing train@cardiff.ac.uk so your place can be reallocated.
About the programme
The Programme will be led by professionals working at the forefront of this dynamic sector. During the three days, participants will learn about the industry in some information-giving sessions and will get hands-on in activities that bring semiconductor technology to life. There will also be group interaction, the opportunity for some virtual reality (VR) experiences, an industry site visit, and a chance to talk with people already working in this sector. In addition, participants will have access to a suite of online courses that will introduce different aspects of the sector.
Who is it for?
We are seeking professionals with experience in a variety of engineer roles who have an interest in exploring a career change within the South Wales semiconductor industry. For example, mid-career engineers and/or recent graduates who have completed an industrial placement. Applicants don’t need any prior knowledge of the sector – it’s about transferrable skills.
We’re particularly keen to receive applications from those with experience in any of the following:
- mechanical engineering
- electrical engineering
- health & safety
- cyber security and/or network security
- quality management
- environmental management
- facilities management
- assembling and testing equipment
What is the compound semiconductor industry?
Semiconductors are all around us in the devices we use every day. They enable us to boil our kettle for that all important cup of tea, manage our monies securely online using technology such as face recognition, reduce our electricity bills with LED lighting, and so much more. South Wales is a leader in next generation semiconductors, known as compound semiconductors, that enable latest technology and future applications, such as LiDAR and 6G WIFI communications. We think it’s pretty cool!
These short videos will give you more of an insight:
Connecting Compound Semiconductor expertise in South Wales
What are compound semiconductors – the super-heroes of the chip world
The Programme team
The Programme will be delivered by specialists from Cardiff University, Swansea University, the CSA Catapult, and CSconnected Ltd, alongside industry specialists from the CSconnected cluster.
Contact us
For queries about the Programme or the application process, please contact: