As part of the nationwide Girls' Day initiative, participants were given the opportunity not only to learn about microelectronics in theory, but to experience it in practice. Equipped with cleanroom garments, they entered the fabrication facilities and explored the different process steps a wafer undergoes during microchip production – from structuring to subsequent pro-cessing and testing stages. This provided a tangible understanding of the complexity and precision required in modern semiconductor manufacturing.

Hands-on experience was a key element of the program: in the training workshop, the students soldered their own small solar lamps and learned how individual components come to-gether to form functional electronic systems. The aim was to make technological concepts accessible and reduce barriers to engaging with complex engineering topics.

“Securing skilled talent does not start at university – it starts much earlier,” says Vivien Wilkens, personell recruiting, Fraunhofer ISIT. “By providing direct exposure to real fabrication environments and enabling hands-on experience, we foster understanding and spark interest in microelectronics.”

Girls’Day is part of a long-term effort to inspire young people to pursue technical careers and, in particular, to encourage girls to explore opportunities in science and engineering. Initiatives like this play an important role in addressing the shortage of skilled professionals in micro-electronics – a key technology field for industry and society.

By opening their labs and fabrication environments, Fraunhofer ISIT and its partners send a clear message: access to technology is a decisive factor in developing the talent of tomorrow.