Bob Smith Executive Director ESD Alliance, a SEMI Technology Community
2021 will bring plenty of change, as well as another year of uncertainty. Nonetheless, the semiconductor industry will persevere. As it did in 2020, it will show resiliency and resolve and a willingness to tackle technological challenges.
A look back on 2020 reinforces the industry’s widespread influence. Work from home and remote learning would not be possible without the efforts and technology brought forward by the semiconductor industry that linked us together. That goes also for design tools from the electronic system design community that enabled this advancement.
Moving into 2021, I expect the industry to roll out new products designed to increase seamless telecommunications and enhance home office productivity as we continue remote learning and living.
In-person networking events may be nixed again in favor of on-line virtual events. Now that industry organizations such as SEMI and the ESD Alliance have experience organizing virtual events, new and improved forms of continuing education, connecting and networking will emerge.
SEMI and the ESD Alliance’s commitment to global advocacy and workforce development remains. We strive to bring about more equity, diversity and inclusiveness through mentoring and retaining a diverse, innovative and skilled workforce.
2021 may be rockier than any of us want and change is inevitable. The semiconductor industry will thrive and endure as it did in 2020.
