What's Happening?
CSconnected, the world's first compound semiconductor cluster, celebrated its ten-year anniversary in Cardiff. The event gathered over 100 industry leaders, researchers, policymakers, and educators to reflect on a decade of transformation and growth in advanced
technology. The cluster has attracted significant investment, created thousands of jobs, and established Wales as a global leader in compound semiconductors. Key milestones include the establishment of the Compound Semiconductor Centre, the Institute for Compound Semiconductors at Cardiff University, and the Centre for Integrative Semiconductor Materials at Swansea University. The cluster has received substantial funding, including £43 million from the Strength in Places Fund, which has formalized and strengthened operational collaboration.
Why It's Important?
The success of the CSconnected cluster highlights the importance of collaboration between government, industry, and academia in driving technological innovation and economic growth. By establishing Wales as a leader in compound semiconductors, the cluster has not only created high-quality jobs but also positioned the region as a key player in enabling technologies such as quantum computing, photonics, and artificial intelligence. This development is crucial for the semiconductor industry, which is vital for numerous sectors including electronics, automotive, and telecommunications. The cluster's growth ambitions, including increasing revenue to £1 billion by 2030 and expanding skilled employment, underscore its potential to further enhance the region's economic resilience and global competitiveness.
What's Next?
CSconnected plans to continue expanding its impact by growing its revenue and increasing employment. The cluster aims to capture value across the region through well-paid jobs and a resilient supply chain. Membership has been launched to allow more organizations in the semiconductor supply chain to join the cluster, fostering further collaboration and innovation. The focus will be on building a future where Wales leads in enabling technologies, with local talent playing a central role in this success.
Beyond the Headlines
The development of the CSconnected cluster represents a significant shift in the semiconductor industry, emphasizing the role of regional clusters in driving innovation and economic growth. The collaboration model adopted by CSconnected could serve as a blueprint for other regions seeking to establish themselves as leaders in advanced technologies. Additionally, the focus on local talent and well-paid jobs highlights the ethical dimension of ensuring that technological advancements contribute to societal well-being and economic equity.
