ECDA Interview

Comet’s role in the European Chips Diversity Alliance: Interview with Meike Boekelmann

September 11, 2024

The semiconductor industry is facing a major talent shortage in the upcoming years due to its continued growth and the low profile of the industry in the employer market. As part of the European Chips Diversity Alliance (ECDA) project, Comet is committed to closing this talent gap with clear actions. Find out more about the project and what these action items are in the interview with Meike Boekelmann, Chief Human Resources Officer at Comet.

Why is the ECDA so important for Comet and the European semiconductor industry?

The European Chips Act aims to double the EU’s global market share in semiconductors by 2030, requiring new production facilities and a large influx of skilled workers. Many young and experienced talents are unaware of the semiconductor industry, leading to a significant talent shortage. The ECDA brings together industry leaders and educational institutions to expand the talent pipeline and promote Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), addressing the industry's male-dominated nature.

This initiative is crucial for Comet, as we need diverse talents to sustain our growth and innovation. Through the ECDA, we can reach a broader audience and stay connected with industry developments.

What are the key initiatives Comet is undertaking in the ECDA?

Our primary role is to represent the industry’s perspective and needs. We conduct surveys and collaborate with our peers to identify the key needs and expectations of semiconductor businesses. These insights are used to shape training and mentor programs at learning institutions and within companies. Comet will also play an active role in testing and refining these programs to ensure they fully meet the evolving needs of the industry.

How does Comet’s DE&I strategy align with its participation in the ECDA?

Diversity, equity, and inclusion are central to our culture at Comet. We believe that fostering an inclusive environment, where everyone is treated fairly and supported, is key to long-term success. This philosophy directly aligns with the ECDA’s principles. Both Comet and the ECDA share the belief that diverse perspectives are essential to driving innovation and sustaining growth in the semiconductor industry.

What are the next steps?

Like all our partners in the alliance, we are continuously working on and delivering assets to keep the project going. To measure progress, I am active in the steering committee, while Isabella Drolz, VP Marketing & Product Strategy in our X-ray Systems Division, is part of the Project Committee and Advisory Council. The next big milestone for us is the set-up of the DEI Suite including the development of trainings, tools and engagement programs.

Meike Boekelmann

Chief Human Resources Officer

European Chips Diversity Alliance

The European Chips Diversity Alliance is a project by Erasmus+, the European Union’s program to support education, training, youth and sport in Europe. Higher education (HE), vocational education and training (VET) and the semiconductor industry are working together to to lower barriers to participation for under-represented groups that represent the missing talent for the competitiveness and growth of the EU chips sector.

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