Customer Background
Our client, a leading international technology company, sought to upskill its team of engineers in the field of IC (Integrated Circuit) design. While these engineers had a strong foundation in electronics and system design, they lacked the specialized knowledge required to transition into IC design. The client aimed to build in-house expertise to support their semiconductor design projects and drive innovation in the industry.
Project Overview
The primary objective of this initiative was to provide hands-on training to the client’s engineering team, enabling them to develop core IC design skills. Our goal was to create a structured, industry-relevant training program that would prepare the engineers to work with commercial EDA (Electronic Design Automation) tools and contribute to real-world IC design projects.
Challenges Faced
- Lack of EDA LicensesThe primary challenge was the unavailability of EDA (Electronic Design Automation) licenses for the client.
- Knowledge Gap The engineers had limited exposure to the IC design process, requiring a well-structured and practical training approach.
- Need for Real-World ApplicationThe training had to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and hands-on implementation to ensure that the engineers could contribute effectively to IC design projects.
Our Comprehensive Approach
To overcome these challenges, we utilized our extensive industry experience and adopted a flexible, solution-oriented approach:
- Identifying Alternative ToolsRecognizing the absence of commercial EDA tools, we researched and implemented open-source EDA software and PDKs (Process Design Kits) to create a functional IC design environment.
- Customized Training ModulesWe developed a structured program that covered fundamental IC design concepts, methodologies, and best practices while incorporating open-source tools that closely mimic commercial EDA software.
- Hands-on Learning Practical exercises, design simulations, and real-world case studies were integrated into the program to ensure immersive learning and application of acquired skills.
- Mentorship & SupportOur experts provided ongoing mentorship and support, guiding engineers through the design process and troubleshooting any challenges they encountered.
Execution Strategy
- Phase 1: Needs Assessment Conducted an in-depth analysis of the client’s engineering team to identify knowledge gaps and training requirements.
- Phase 2: Curriculum Development Designed a structured training program with theoretical modules and hands-on sessions.
- Phase 3: Implementation & Training Delivered training sessions through a combination of live instruction and guided project work.
- Phase 4: Practical Applications & Evaluations Engineers applied their knowledge to real-world projects, with periodic assessments to gauge progress and proficiency.
- Phase 5: Continuous Improvement We continuously improved the training approach based on feedback, ensuring its relevance and effectiveness.
Tools Utilized
- Open-Source EDA Software Facilitated design and simulation of IC circuits.
- Process Design Kits (PDKs) Enabled engineers to work on fabrication-ready designs.
- Cloud-Based Learning Management Systems (LMS) Provided training materials and interactive learning sessions.
Results & Business Impact
- Skilled Workforce Over two years, more than 800 engineers successfully completed the IC design training program.
- Successful Tapeouts The program contributed to the successful tapeout of over 15+ IC designs across three customer projects.
- Increased Engineering Capabilities Engineers, including those with no prior IC design experience, transitioned into capable IC designers, enhancing the client’s internal capabilities.
- Cost Efficiency By leveraging open-source tools, the client significantly reduced initial training costs while still achieving industry-relevant outcomes.
- Faster Project Execution The trained engineers accelerated the client’s IC design projects, reducing dependency on external expertise and enabling faster time-to-market.
Key Benefits Achieved
- Enhanced Engineering Expertise Engineers developed in-depth knowledge and hands-on experience in IC design, positioning the client for future semiconductor innovation.
- Sustainable Training Model The client now has a scalable and replicable training framework to onboard new engineers effectively.
- Improved Competitiveness Strengthened in-house IC design capabilities provided the client with a strategic advantage in the semiconductor industry.
- Scalability & Adaptability The program can be adapted to accommodate future advancements in IC design and new technological requirements.
By providing innovative training solutions, we empowered our client’s engineers to become proficient IC designers, driving both individual and organizational growth by enabling them to create impactful designs.
If you are looking for a semiconductor services and solution partner, reach out to us at hello@orbitskyline.com.
