On May 20, Innovatiecluster Drachten (ICD) participated in Semicon Day (Or the Chip Event North NL) in the Feringa Building on Zernike Campus in Groningen. During this event, students, educational institutions, and companies came together around one central theme: the future of the semiconductor and high-tech sector in the Northern Netherlands.
The event was organized by the Beethoven Noord project team and aimed to excite students about a career in semicon and high-tech industries. It focused not only on knowledge sharing but also on networking and inspiration.
Great interest from students
During Semicon Day, approximately 100 students participated from the University of Groningen, Hanze University Groningen and NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences.
The students actively engaged in conversation with companies from the sector and gained more insight into the technological challenges and career opportunities within semiconductors. There was great interest and the questions were substantively strong. This once again highlighted the potential of young technical talent in the Northern Netherlands.
Also international players such as ASML and ASM International were present during the event.
Northern Netherlands plays an important role in semiconductors
Although many people immediately think of large chip manufacturers when they think of semiconductors, the Northern Netherlands plays an important role as a high-tech supplier within this international chain.
Within the ICD network, various companies are active that develop crucial components and technologies for the semiconductor industry. For example, consider:
- ultra-high precision metal parts
- High-precision plastic components
- linear motors
- high-end motion & control electronics
Companies such as NTS, Hittech, Witec, Betech, Variass and Kendrion often deliver directly to international OEMs. This makes them an essential link in the global high-tech industry.
Enthusiastic conversations at the ICD booth
Femma Kroes (Varriass / Batenburg Beenen), Florian van der Hoeven and Joost Krebbekx (both ICDs) were present to inform students about the opportunities within the sector.
Throughout the afternoon, numerous conversations arose about technology, innovation, internships, and careers in high-tech. The interest was so great that by the end of the day, all the leaflets had been handed out and the voices of the attendees had been put to the test.
That turned out to be perhaps the best proof of a successful day.
Building the high-tech future together
For the ICD, participation in this day was a great opportunity to showcase the innovative power of the Northern Netherlands to the next generation of technicians and engineers.
By bringing education, students, and companies together, greater awareness of career opportunities in the region is created. Furthermore, this helps retain and further develop talent within the Northern Netherlands high-tech sector.
We look back on an inspiring day full of knowledge sharing, enthusiasm, and new connections between education and industry.
