You would be forgiven for feeling overwhelmed at the sight of the Semicon Europa agenda this year. Much like an SiP (if you‘ll excuse the metaphor), the event integrates a huge array of discrete topics, across a jam-packed programme of fora and conferences, into one mega-event designed to supercharge the European semiconductor ecosystem. Broken down into individual components, visitors will find there are three distinct paid conferences: the Advanced Packaging Conference (13 November, ICM, Room 14a); the Fab Management Forum (13 November, ICM, Room 14c) and the Mems & Imaging Sensors Summit (14 November, ICM, Rooms 14a+c) and two free forum stages: the Executive Forum (Hall C2) and the TechARENA (Hall C1), each of which will host a variety of sub-events every day. Running alongside this programme of presentations is, of course, the actual exhibition in which companies from the microelectronics industry showcase their latest products and services across the two exhibition halls C1 & C2.
Better together
The event as a whole centres upon the theme of ‘Innovation and Collaboration: Powering Sustainable Exponential Growth’. “Only by fostering collaborative efforts, can the semiconductor industry ensure its rapid expansion aligns with global sustainability goals;“ explains organiser SEMI. “This way the industry can pave the way for a future where technological advancement and environmental progress coexist harmoniously.”
The key programme item in this regard is the CxO Summit, taking place at the Executive Forum in Hall 2 on 12 November at 10 am. This will bring together key executives from across the value chain to shed light on how Europe‘s microelectronics ecosystem can unify efforts to establish and uphold strategic leadership. According to organisers, “this Summit serves as the perfect stage to foster insightful discussions on pressing and emerging topics that will remain at the forefront throughout the entire Semicon Europa week setting the scene for dynamic exchanges.“
Other key topics
Materials innovation will be a recurring theme at the event. The III-V Compound Summit will showcase the critical importance and emerging impact of III-V compound semiconductors in driving the future of electronics. “Advancements in III-V compound semiconductor materials are crucial for the next generation of high-performance, energy-efficient devices, supporting the industry to overcome manufacturing complexities, boost efficiency and reduce costs,” said Ajit Manocha, SEMI President and CEO. “[This] will be an indispensable discussion about how these technologies will transform the electronics landscape, marking the beginning of a new era of technological progress.”
As you would expect at a European semiconductor event, the EU Chips Act will also get extensive airtime – in particular during the ITF Chip into the Future forum (12 November, 2 pm, Executive Forum,, Hall C2). This will examine how the EU Chips Act can advance Europe’s semiconductor industry through collaboration, innovation, and investment. Discussions will cover key drivers, best practices, and the future of chip research and manufacturing.
Pressing topics such as inclusive leadership, the global talent shortage, and the crucial need to develop the industry leaders of the future will be adressed at the Future of Work event (13 November, 10am, TechARENA, Hall C1).
Executive Forum highlights
Other highlights in Hall C2 include: sessions on: Cultivating a Thriving SiC Market, and on Smart Manufacturing; the Global Automotive Advisory Council Summit – Smart Mobility Forum, and an Innovation Showcase.
TechARENA highlights
The TechARENA in Hall C1 will host the 20 Under 30 Recognition Program honouring young leaders in the microelectronics supply chain for their career success, leadership, commitment, community involvement, and collaborative innovation. The Chips, Checks and Balances session on 12 November at 12:40 pm will focus on geopolitics – asking how new policies affect global supply chains and why international cooperation is needed to ensure competitiveness and long-term growth. The European Economic Security Strategy‘s impact on the semiconductor industry will also be unpacked.
The discussion entitled Breakthroughs in Medical Technology (14 November, 3:45 pm) will be another highlight – exploring how advanced medical electronics and semiconductors are advancing digital healthcare for the future.
Future challenges
For those concerned about the obstacles hindering Europe on its journey to becoming a serious semiconductor manufacturing power, the Future Disruptions session (3:30 pm on 13 November at the
TechARENA) is a must. Here, experts will share actionable insights and strategies on critical topics such as supply chain management, sustainability, ESG, PFAS regulations, and geopolitical impacts to navigate future disruptions in the semiconductor industry.
