Training programme prepares asylum seekers for work in the semiconductor industry
A new step towards attracting more technical talent to Brainport
Over 230 asylum seekers in Eindhoven have started a training programme aimed at securing employment in the microchip industry. The programme begins with language and technical terminology, followed by modules on safety, industry orientation and basic technical skills. This gives participants the opportunity to prepare, step by step, for a job in the semiconductor sector.
Spotting talent that currently often goes unrecognised
There is high demand for technical talent in the Brainport region. The semiconductor and microchip industries alone will require many more people in the coming years. That is why it is important to take a broader view of talent, including people who do not currently come to the attention of employers.
Asylum seekers can be a valuable source of talent. With the right language support, guidance and practical training, they can develop the skills to work in a sector where there is a great need.
From language to technology
Participants begin by developing language skills and technical vocabulary relevant to the microchip industry. This is followed by technical modules and lessons on safety and working in the sector. The programme is designed to be practical, ensuring that participants gain an ever-better understanding of what working in the semiconductor industry entails.
The programme now comprises 18 study groups across six locations. Participants work on their language skills four days a week, three hours a day. A further 80 new participants will join the programme in the coming months.
Making room for new talent
This initiative demonstrates what is possible when the education sector, the government and labour market partners work together. Summa is running the initiative in collaboration with the City of Eindhoven, COA and Wasbeer & Pauw. Some of these partners also work together within Brainport Academy, which focuses on retraining and upskilling for the sector.
The next step also requires a commitment from employers. Not because the participants are already ready for a job, but because space is needed to allow this talent to develop further. By being open to new target groups, organising support and looking at roles in a different way, there is a greater chance of a sustainable influx into the semiconductor sector.
Working together to boost recruitment in the semiconductor sector
The training programme is part of a wider initiative in the Brainport region. Within Brainport Academy, the education sector, government and industry are working together to train thousands of people for the microchip industry. In this way, we are strengthening both the labour market and Brainport Eindhoven’s international standing as a high-tech region.
Want to learn more?
As an employer, would you like to explore how you can take a different approach to talent or make room for new recruits? Find out how Brainport Academy can help you with training, reskilling and development for the semiconductor sector.
Working together to build a strong semiconductor sector