Course Overview
This online course is designed for non-technical professionals working in support roles, such as legal, marketing, HR, finance, procurement, and IT, who may not be directly involved in chip design or manufacturing but still interact with the semiconductor industry. Whether you’re new to the field or looking to enhance your understanding, this training will give you the foundational knowledge needed to navigate the industry’s technical landscape with confidence.
Through simplified explanations and real-world examples, we’ll demystify the complex world of semiconductors, helping you better understand the development process, industry players, and the global context in which it operates. You’ll walk away with practical insights that will enhance your communication, decision-making, and overall effectiveness in your role.
What You’ll Learn
- A high-level overview of the semiconductor industry in Canada and globally
- Core technologies including microelectronics, photonics, MEMS, and quantum
- Clear explanations of key industry terms and jargon
- An introduction to the global semiconductor supply chain and its challenges
By the End of the Online Course, You’ll Be Able To:
- Communicate more effectively with technical and business stakeholders
- Support your organization and clients with greater clarity and confidence
- Contribute more strategically to your team and broader company goals
- Apply your knowledge to help drive business and financial outcomes
- Build meaningful peer connections through a shared understanding of the industry
Who Should Attend
This online course is ideal for professionals in marketing, business development, policy or advisory roles, project management, legal, human resources, or finance who work in—or are interested in—semiconductors and want to gain a working knowledge of the industry.
Description
This course consists of three individual sessions. You may attend one or more sessions.
Session 1 – Why Are We Here?
June 10, 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM ET
Global Industry Overview & The Business of Chips
Begin your journey into the world of semiconductors with a clear and engaging introduction to the tiny yet powerful devices at the heart of our digital world. This module breaks down the fundamentals of how semiconductors work and why they’re critical to virtually every modern product—from smartphones to cars and beyond. You’ll gain insight into the industry’s global structure, the evolution of its value chains, and how various players—from startups to global giants—fit into the big picture.
Session 2 – Driven by Evolving Science & Engineering
June 17, 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM ET
Design It, Own It, Defend It
Explore the science behind semiconductors in simple, easy-to-understand terms. Learn how materials like silicon and germanium behave in unique ways that make them ideal for processing and storing data. This module explains how semiconductors keep getting smaller and faster, what’s driving innovation, and how intellectual property plays a key role in this fast-moving field. You’ll also discover who’s leading the charge in research, design, and innovation across the global ecosystem.
Session 3 – Manufacturing & Packaging Evolution
June 24, 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM ET
A Canadian and Global Perspective
Take a behind-the-scenes look at how semiconductors are made. From cutting-edge tools and techniques to the evolution of packaging technologies, this module unpacks the complexities of chip manufacturing in a way that makes sense—even if you’re not an engineer. You’ll learn about key trends shaping the industry, discover major players in Canada and around the world, and gain a clearer understanding of how the global supply chain operates and why it matters.
Speaker
Peter R. Fillmore: Innovation & Revenue Growth Advisor
Peter Fillmore is an advisor, coach, and trainer, delivering solutions for business and personal growth to technical entrepreneurs, teams, and innovation organizations. He has over 25 years of marketing, sales, product, and management experience in the global technology industry.
Peter has also contributed to the growth of Canadian technology marketing skills through over 80 articles published and numerous seminars designed and delivered for OCRI, NRC, IEEE, and others. He taught and managed the Ottawa Entrepreneur’s Edge program over a 5-year period. His market strategy credentials include the establishment of his consulting practice as an affiliate of The Chasm Group of San Mateo, Silicon Valley’s premier market strategy firm.
Since 2019, Peter has served as an Adjunct Professor for the University of Ottawa, teaching a graduate Engineering course, “Business Communication and Influence for Engineers”.
