Mackenzie Stuart’s Post

✅Microelectronics UK 2025 highlights The day began with a compelling ministerial address by Kanishka Narayan MP , the Minister for AI and Online Safety. He emphasized the strategic importance of the UK semiconductor industry, describing it as the “invisible infrastructure” of the nation announcing a £10 million investment aimed at fostering industry growth. The Minister also highlighted the need for strong academic and industrial partnerships to drive innovation. Sue Daley OBE , Director of Tech & Innovation presented a UK Chip Report on behalf of techUK, focusing on capitalizing on the UK's strengths to maintain global competitiveness highlighting the importance of manufacturing and developing high-variety chips at lower volumes. Future plans involve increasing access to greater finance for UK semiconductor businesses and leveraging existing strengths in global supply chains through strategic partnerships. To achieve this, the UK must retain chip design IP, support applied R&D manufacturing efforts, incentivize investment in new growth areas, and promote innovation at scale while nurturing the necessary skills. John Lincoln, CEO of the Photonics Leadership Group, delivered an insightful talk on the future of the photonics market. He highlighted the industry's impressive growth, currently valued at £18.5 billion and projected to reach £50 billion by 2050. Emerging opportunities are evident in deep learning, particularly in scientific processes beyond just AI, with continued focus on Quantum Technology and 3D printing. With notable increases in scientific research employment in the UK, it will be fascinating to observe the market's evolution. An intriguing panel discussion on evolving supply chains in a changing world, hosted by Howard Rupprecht, where panellists Alexandra Foster ✨, Florian Kaesen, Olivia Ricketts, and Paolo Bargiacchi explored methodologies for addressing rising system complexity and the geopolitical factors impacting trade restrictions. The discussion also covered the need to anticipate chip shortages and shifting market demands, as well as changes in supply chain trends with a focus on ESG compliance and the growing role of AI. The final panel discussion I attended was hosted by Ben Hanley CEO of Enigma People Solutions. Panellists included VIBISHNA BALAGOPAL, Alexandra Foster ✨, and Krishnapriya C.R. They delved into the importance of maintaining a continuous pipeline of talent in microelectronics. Krishnapriya C.R emphasized the need to assess the relationship between AI and the workforce differently before another country sets a new standard. Alexandra Foster ✨ closed with insights on hybrid learning pathways that combine microelectronics, quantum, and AI, proposing that this integration could make the UK unstoppable. A final Q&A session with Paul Swift, along with a simulation racing experience, wrapped up my day at Microelectronics UK 2025... excited for whats next at Microelectronics UK 2026.