The Career Potential of Vocational Skills in India's Semiconductor Industry

India's semiconductor industry is poised for significant growth, driven by increasing demand for electronic devices, advancements in technology, and government initiatives. As the global semiconductor market is projected to reach $1 trillion by 2030, India aims to capture a substantial share, potentially reaching $64 billion in market size by 2026. This ambitious growth trajectory underscores the urgent need for a skilled workforce equipped with vocational skills tailored to the semiconductor sector.

?

The Expanding Semiconductor Landscape in India

?

India's government has launched several initiatives to boost domestic semiconductor production. The Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, with a budget allocation of ?76,000 crore ($10 billion), aims to attract global semiconductor manufacturers to set up plants in India. Additionally, the Indian Semiconductor Mission (ISM) focuses on building a robust semiconductor and display manufacturing ecosystem.

?

India's burgeoning electronics market, valued at $118 billion in 2020, is expected to grow at a CAGR of 16.1% from 2021 to 2026. This growth is driven by increasing consumer electronics adoption, advancements in telecommunications, and the rising use of semiconductors in automotive and industrial applications. These factors contribute to a surging demand for skilled professionals in the semiconductor industry.

?

Vocational Skills: The Backbone of the Industry

?

Vocational education emphasizes practical skills and hands-on experience, making it highly relevant to the semiconductor industry. Key vocational skills essential for this sector include:

?

1. Electronics and Electrical Engineering: These skills are foundational for understanding semiconductor devices, their functions, and applications. As of 2022, there were over 500,000 electronics engineers in India, with demand expected to grow by 10% annually.

?

2.?Technical Maintenance and Repair: Maintaining and repairing semiconductor equipment is crucial for ensuring smooth operations. The industry employs over 50,000 technicians, with a projected need for 100,000 more by 2025.

?

3.?Precision Manufacturing: Semiconductor manufacturing requires precise and detailed-oriented work. With over 200 semiconductor fabrication plants worldwide, the demand for skilled manufacturing technicians is substantial.

?

4.?Quality Control and Testing: Ensuring that semiconductors meet required standards is vital. India has over 5,000 quality control professionals in the semiconductor industry, with a need for at least 3,000 more by 2026.

?

Training and Certification Programs

?

Various training and certification programs are being developed to harness vocational skills' potential. Institutions and organizations are offering specialized courses tailored to the semiconductor industry, including:

?

Diploma in Electronics and Communication Engineering: With over 100,000 enrollments annually, this program provides a comprehensive understanding of electronic systems, preparing individuals for roles in semiconductor design and manufacturing.

?

Certificate Course in Semiconductor Technology: Focused on industry-specific needs, this course covers semiconductor physics, fabrication processes, and device testing, with over 10,000 certifications awarded annually.

?

Employment Opportunities and Career Growth

?

The career potential in the semiconductor industry for vocationally trained individuals is vast. Promising job roles include:

?

Semiconductor Equipment Technician: With an average salary of ?4-6 lakh per annum, these technicians are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing semiconductor manufacturing equipment.

?

Quality Assurance Specialist: Earning ?5-8 lakh per annum, these professionals ensure semiconductor products meet quality standards through rigorous testing and inspection.

?

Process Technician: With an average salary of ?3-5 lakh per annum, these technicians manage and optimize manufacturing processes, ensuring efficiency and precision.

?

Field Service Engineer: Providing on-site technical support, these engineers earn ?6-9 lakh per annum and play a crucial role in maintaining manufacturing facilities.

?

As the industry evolves, the need for advanced skills and continuous learning will grow, providing opportunities for career advancement and specialization. Vocational training institutions are increasingly partnering with industry players to align curricula with the latest technological advancements and industry requirements.

?

Conclusion

?

The semiconductor industry in India presents a promising landscape for individuals equipped with vocational skills. As the country strives to become a global hub for semiconductor manufacturing, the demand for skilled technicians, engineers, and specialists will increase. Vocational training offers a practical, efficient pathway to enter and thrive in this dynamic industry. By investing in vocational education, India can build a robust workforce to meet its burgeoning semiconductor sector's demands, driving innovation and growth on the global stage.

?