TSMC, the world’s largest chipmaker, implemented a new intensive training program three years ago to address a global chip shortage and rising geopolitical tensions. The Newcomer Training Center in Taichung, Taiwan, now plays a crucial role in the company’s global expansion. Engineers are required to spend eight weeks at the center to learn more systematically and efficiently, reflecting TSMC’s core values. The center is modeled after the operations of a fabrication plant where chips are made, providing hands-on experience for new recruits.
TSMC’s engineers trained at the center will not only be deployed across its facilities in Taiwan but will also be used to seed its facilities globally. The company aims to gradually increase local hires in new fabs worldwide while reducing the number of assignees from Taiwan. As the company continues to expand and build new fabs in the United States, Japan, and Germany, the demand for talent in the semiconductor industry has increased. TSMC faces challenges in finding skilled workers and adapting to differences in work culture between Asian and Western countries.
The shortage of talent poses one of the main challenges for TSMC, which currently employs about 77,000 workers globally. The company anticipates reaching 100,000 employees in the coming years. While the work culture in Taiwan includes long hours, weekend shifts, and being on-call during emergencies such as earthquakes, TSMC is learning to manage teams efficiently in various parts of the world. Employees in different countries may have different expectations and work practices, requiring adjustments in management style and communication methods.
Facing the need to expand globally, TSMC is mindful of adapting to local practices and ensuring social acceptability in different regions. The company acknowledges the need to manage teams differently across various cultural contexts, as work practices and expectations can vary significantly between countries like Taiwan, the US, and Germany. While TSMC’s move to diversify its production beyond Taiwan has raised concerns among some locals and lawmakers, the company reassures that Taiwan will remain a central hub for leading-edge technology. The expansion of TSMC’s operations globally is seen as an opportunity to learn how to operate on a global scale and grow its exposure in different markets.
As the demand for semiconductor chips continues to soar, TSMC remains at the forefront of innovation, producing an estimated 90% of the world’s super-advanced chips used in various electronic devices. With new fabs opening in Japan, the US, and Germany, TSMC is strategically positioning itself closer to its customers and markets. The company’s commitment to investing in new facilities reflects its dedication to meeting market demand, geopolitical considerations, and technological advancements. Adapting to changes in the semiconductor industry, including talent shortages and cultural differences, TSMC emphasizes the importance of efficient training programs and global management practices to drive its continued success.
