The “Advanced Distributed Pilot Line for More-than-Moore Technologies” project (ADMONT) is focused on a powerful and versatile More-than-Moore (MtM) pilot line for Europe increasing the diversification of CMOS process technologies. The combination of existing expertise, technological capabilities and the manufacturing capacity of industrial and research partners creates a whole new ecosystem within Europe’s biggest silicon technology cluster “Silicon Saxony”. The distributed pilot line utilizes various MtM platform technologies for sensor and OLED processing in combination with baseline CMOS processes in a unique way and incorporates 2.5D as well as 3D integration of silicon systems into one single production flow. The technology modules, equipment and processes are not located in one single clean room, but are distributed between partners located in Dresden. This local concentration of micro- and nanotechnology facilities has various advantages for potential customer since it enables a short production cycle time and fast delivery. Such distributed MtM pilot line is unique in Europe as well as worldwide and will be implemented as “one-stop-shop” for partners and customer. It is supported by advanced design technologies to address the challenges of modelling and simulation of MtM relevant aspects like reliability, degradation effects, process variability, and IT solution aspects for MtM smart fabrication, fab automation and data processing to generate a smart infrastructure. The distributed pilot line is working as an open platform and is able to integrate future technologies for autonomous and smart system solutions. ADMONT is focused on four main key applications: smart energy, smart mobility, smart health, and smart production and essential capabilities like semiconductor process equipment and materials, design technology and smart system integration. The project consortium is organized and working along the value chain for ECS technologies in Europe.

In today’s life and economy, microelectronics is ubiquitous, empowering the equipment for virtually all daily activities: aviation, automotive, health care, communication and even leisure would not be possible without a microelectronics component (commonly referred to as microchip or chip).EU’s microelectronics ecosystem is undermined by a shortage of professionals, skills mismatches and distance between the worlds of education and work. Recent geopolitical upheavals and chips shortages highlight the importance of technological resilience in microelectronics. When it comes to microelectronics, Europe can no longer afford to depend on other countries.Aware of those challenges, the EU Commission launched a series of initiatives, above all the launch of a Microelectronics Pact for Skills (2020) and the publication of the “EU Chips Act” (adoption foreseen) to revamp Europe’s microelectronics ecosystem. Yet, the Pact for Skills has yet to deliver on its expectations and innovative approaches towards education and training in microelectronics are required.ECS-Academy’s is an initiator of a large-scale and durable endeavour that will foster innovation and resilience of the microelectronics sector. It will bridge the gap between education, training and industry to tackle Europe’s skills and talent shortages. ESC-Academy will1) implement and operationalise the Pact for Skills2) establish the first-of-a-kind decentralised academy for microelectronics, linking industry, research, HE and VET currently operating in isolation3) develop innovative training and curriculum to provide reactive and proactive response to the skills needs of the sector.ECS-Academy is a robust Alliance, with 18 partners, 30+ organisations endorsing the project, and covering the whole of the EU Educational Area. The consortium represents the value chain of microelectronics and the full spectrum of education and training, and will reach 984,706 direct contacts in valorisation activities.