3 days of tours to university laboratories and semiconductor production lines, science lectures, and mock interview experiences

The Semiconductor Equipment and Materials International (SEMI) hosts the annual "High Tech U" program for middle school students aspiring to enter science and engineering fields, designed to provide hands-on experience in the advanced semiconductor industry and career exploration. Marking its 7th edition in Korea, the event is scheduled to take place over three days from August 9 to 11, sponsored by domestic and international semiconductor companies and universities.

Hi-Tech U is a social contribution program of SEMI that is conducted with the same curriculum in nine countries, including Korea, the United States, Japan, and Taiwan. The program aims to foster career exploration and scientific talent by helping middle school students experience cutting-edge industries firsthand.

This year, the Gyeonggi Provincial Office of Education specially selected 27 female middle school students in the 2nd and 3rd grades. The program is conducted by receiving recommendations from the relevant offices of education for female middle school students who have an interest in mathematics and science or plan to pursue a career in science and engineering.

The three-day program consists of tours of university laboratories and semiconductor production lines, science lectures, and mock interviews. To make the learning engaging for students, a total of nine curriculums covering basic mathematics and science, such as microchips, engineering design, and human calculators, are conducted.

Applied Materials, Edwards Korea, ASML, Advantest, Dongjin Semichem, Teradyne, and KLA Tencor participate as instructors, providing students with the opportunity to meet field experts. In addition, HR managers from the aforementioned companies, as well as LOT Vacuum and Versum Materials, participate directly in the mock interviews to conduct one-on-one interviews with students. Through this opportunity, students can receive practical advice on how to determine their future career paths.

Dr. Oh Hoon-jung of Yonsei University’s BIT Fab Lab, who is supporting the venue and laboratory tours for this Hi-Tech U, introduced the institute by stating, “The BIT Micro Fab Lab is an open semiconductor research institute equipped with a Class 1,000 cleanroom and research facilities and equipment capable of implementing MOSFET semiconductor devices. It conducts projects to support research for the development of advanced semiconductor technology by forming a network for technology cooperation between industry and academia.” He added, “I am pleased to participate in this meaningful social contribution program for the education of potential talents who will contribute to the Korean semiconductor industry in the future.”

This year's SEMI High-Tech U is being held with the sponsorship of KLA-Tencor, Versum Materials, Applied Materials, Edwards Korea, LOT Vacuum, Samsung Electronics, Yonsei University BIT Fab Lab, ASML, Dongjin Semikem, Advantest, and Teradyne.