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Nikken Total Sourcing Enhances Semiconductor Education in Kumamoto

On January 16, 2023, Nikken Total Sourcing, a leader in human capital development, initiated its first semiconductor training program targeting high school students in Kumamoto Prefecture at the Kumamoto Tech Center. This training aimed to empower students by providing them with insights into the semiconductor industry, emphasizing the importance of diversifying talent to meet the growing demand in this sector.

As various semiconductor companies continue to establish their presence in Kumamoto, the region faces a pressing challenge of insufficient skilled labor. In response, efforts to reinforce industry-academia collaboration in workforce development have gained momentum. For instance, Kumamoto University has recently announced programs in collaboration with other universities aimed at cultivating semiconductor talent. The Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) is also working towards increasing the total sales of domestic semiconductor companies to over ¥15 trillion by 2030, signaling a robust outlook for the industry.

However, according to the Kyushu Semiconductor Human Resource Development Consortium, the Kyushu region is projected to experience a shortage of approximately 1,000 skilled workers annually in both the short and long term. This situation underscores the critical need for collaborative education efforts between industry, government, and academia.

To better address these needs, Nikken Total Sourcing expanded the Kumamoto Tech Center in 2023, focusing specifically on semiconductor education. The facility is equipped to train personnel who possess the practical skills necessary for troubleshooting and enhancing equipment. It includes proprietary training devices for semiconductor transportation, further enriching the educational environment.

In partnership with the Kumamoto Prefectural Board of Education, Nikken Total Sourcing has also organized company visits and dispatched engineers to give hands-on experience to high school teachers and students. These initiatives are crucial in bridging the gap between education and the semiconductor industry's workforce requirements.

The recent program included students from six prefectural high schools, both from specialized technical courses and general studies. They engaged in classroom learning covering semiconductor structures, categories, applications, and the industry's historical context, followed by practical sessions that involved maintenance tasks like parts and O-ring replacements using actual semiconductor manufacturing equipment operated in the center.

Several students shared their experiences post-training:

• - “As a general studies student, this was my first exposure to semiconductors. I learned a lot in a short time, and it has added a valuable perspective to my future career considerations, especially in the IT field.”
• - “Being in a mechanical engineering program, this experience deepened my understanding of semiconductors, which are critical to our lives. I felt a strong emotional connection to how semiconductors are involved in everyday items. Although I'm still undecided about my career path, this workshop heightened my interest in semiconductor-related jobs.”

A representative from the Kumamoto Prefectural Education Office commented, “With the growing demand for semiconductors in Kumamoto, more students are inclined to consider careers in this industry. This training provided them an opportunity to understand the equipment maintenance aspects of semiconductor manufacturing, which we hope will guide their career choices.”

Nikken Total Sourcing, through its training programs, aims to instill a sense of possibility for high school students. Plans are already in place for further workshops, including one specifically for teachers scheduled for February 2026.

As the semiconductor industry continues to evolve and demand for skilled professionals increases, Nikken Total Sourcing is dedicated to enhancing workforce readiness through high-quality education and training. Their commitment to developing a well-prepared talent pool is vital for sustaining growth within the semiconductor sector in Kumamoto and beyond.

Kumamoto Tech Center Overview

The Kumamoto Tech Center focuses on maintaining semiconductor manufacturing equipment and training engineers for roles such as maintenance engineers and quality control staff. By providing an environment comparable to real-world working conditions, it supports staff in acquiring the skills necessary for career advancement, further strengthening the semiconductor industry's foundation in Japan.

In summary, Nikken Total Sourcing is making pivotal strides in enhancing semiconductor education for high school students in Kumamoto, contributing to a sustainable future for the industry.