The future of technology depends on cultivating a strong and skilled talent pipeline. According to McKinsey & Company, the global semiconductor industry could grow to $1 trillion by 2030, driven by surging demand across sectors like automotive, consumer electronics, AI, and clean energy technologies. That’s why the SEMIquest Pop-Up Exhibition at SEMICON West, October 8-9, 2025 in Phoenix, AZ, will bring the semiconductor story to life through immersive, hands-on learning experiences for students, educators, families, and the general public.
What Is SEMIquest?
SEMIquest is an engaging, interactive experience designed to introduce students in grades 7-12 to the world of semiconductors. The program features hands-on activities, direct interaction with industry professionals, and workshops for educators aimed at highlighting the essential role semiconductors play in everyday life and future career opportunities.
Key Program Components:
- Industry Engagement – Offering students the opportunity to interact with industry through the interactive exhibition space.
- Hands-On Activities – Highlighting careers in semiconductors and promoting STEM education for students.
- Educator Engagement – Offering teachers training and resources to carry lessons back into their classrooms.
- Field Trip to SEMICON West 2025 – Providing students an opportunity to attend SEMICON West 2025 at the Phoenix Convention Center in Arizona, with complimentary admission and curated tours that offer a behind-the-scenes look at the global semiconductor industry.
The program culminates in an on-site learning experience at the Arizona Science Center, located adjacent to SEMICON West 2025—where students can explore exhibits, engage with companies, and witness the semiconductor ecosystem firsthand.
Projected Reach: In its inaugural year, SEMIquest aims to engage 500-1000 students in grades 7-12, with a national expansion plan already in motion.
Impact Goal: Reach 60,000 families and students during a 4-month Pop-Up exhibition in Arizona through targeted programming and outreach.
Why This Work Matters: The Semiconductor Industry Needs Talent
Semiconductors are the foundation of modern life—from smartphones to satellites, healthcare tech to AI applications, and more. Yet, many students are unaware of what semiconductors are or how to pursue a career in the field.
- The Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA) estimates the U.S. could see a shortfall of 67,000 skilled workers by 2030 in key roles that require postsecondary education.
- A 2023 Deloitte report warns of a global shortfall of 1 million skilled workers in the semiconductor industry by 2030 if proactive steps aren’t taken.
- Semiconductor Research Corporation 2023 findings indicate that while 577,000 students pursue four-year STEM degrees annually, only about 19,000 enter the semiconductor industry each year. This disparity underscores a significant gap between STEM education and semiconductor industry employment.
- SEMI’s American Semiconductor Academy (ASA) Vision Paper highlights the importance of raising student awareness through educational and industry collaboration, offering hands-on experiences and real-world applications.
The SEMIquest Pop-Up Exhibition tackle this urgent gap through meaningful engagement, accessibility, and experiential learning—helping students envision themselves as future leaders in the field.
What Sets SEMIquest Apart
- Real Industry Involvement – Students interact directly with professionals, tools, and environments used in the field.
- National Scalability – While beginning in Arizona, the program is structured for national rollout.
- Cross-Sector Collaboration – A unique fusion of education and industry.
- Integrated Learning Model – Teachers and students learn together, amplifying classroom impact.
Join the Movement: Shape the Future of Innovation
We’re calling on partners across the country to join this work. Whether you’re an industry leader, educator, or community-based organization, your involvement is essential to inspiring and preparing the next generation of innovators.
- Industry Partners – Showcase your work, engage directly with students, and contribute resources to the traveling Semiconductor Pop-Up Exhibition.
- Schools & Educators – Bring your students, co-host hands-on workshops, and integrate real-world tech experiences into your curriculum.
- Foundations & Funders – Support the expansion of this scalable model and help bring it to communities nationwide.
Join us at SEMIQuest! To get involved or learn more, contact Perla DeBaggis at pdebaggis@semi.org.
Perla DeBaggis is Sr. Specialist, Career & Industry Awareness at the SEMI Foundation.