Semiconductor Upskilling Program Using Field-Programmable Gate Arrays as a Training Vehicle

Abstract

The global semiconductor shortage since 2020 has affected over 169 industries, resulting in price increases, long lines, and the resale of integrated circuits in numerous consumer goods. Upskilling programs and boot camps play an important part in education, providing an immersive and intensive learning environment. This study aims to assess the influence of using field-programmable gate array (FPGAs) as a motivational training vehicle in the field of the semiconductor industry to build the required skill set, in particular, in the design and verification stages. The study employed a survey-based research methodology with participants from a chip design training camp hosted in Jordan for senior and fresh graduate engineering students in summer 2023. We proposed a novel research conceptual model to measure the influence of such training program on student performance and motivation. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS AMOS 28, applying structural equation modeling. The findings demonstrated that FPGA-based chip design training programs significantly motivated students and enhanced their skill set, particularly in FPGA design, hardware description languages, and problem-solving abilities. Hands-on projects, along with guidance from industry professionals and faculty members, played crucial roles in skill development. The study's promising results are limited by a single-country sample, self-reported survey data, and short-term nature, potentially introducing bias. The short-term nature of the study might limit insights into the long-term career impacts of such training programs. This study highlights the positive influence of industry-driven training programs on students' skills and future professional careers in the domain of hardware system design, particularly using FPGA implementation. The findings offer valuable insights for instructors, institutions, and curriculum developers aiming to integrate industry-relevant skills into academic programs.