Aedvices, in collaboration with ICONDA Solutions, has implemented a new learning method for microelectronics engineers, based on a unique format, combining asynchronous and synchronous learning. MILLI (Modular Independent Learning with Live Integration) was designed by ICONDA Solutions, and the two companies have now adapted this format to the training courses offered by Aedvices.
While electronics and microelectronics companies are heavily recruiting new talent, human resources are more strained than ever before. According to Deloitte, 1 million more skilled jobs will be needed in the microelectronics sector by 2030. However, the limited number of new graduates in microelectronics increases the difficulty of recruiting skilled engineers.
In addition to the problem of finding and attracting new graduates, companies face a further issue: “A basic engineering degree is no longer sufficient to meet the needs of companies needing to ramp up engineers faster than ever before. It is, therefore, essential to provide specialized training to new engineers, as well as supporting transfers between specialties and to upgrading of skills. Aedvices verification and design training is designed with this in mind.” explains François Cerisier, CEO of Aedvices.
A new way of learning
MILLI has been designed with the ambition of exploiting the advantages of eLearning and recent innovations in online training delivery while responding to the expectations of a typical consumer in 2024. Crucially, this is achieved while maintaining the benefits of direct student-trainer contact.
During Independant Learning phases, participants have access to interactive online content with integrated video and quizzes, available at any time through a dedicated Learning Management System (LMS). The trainee also has individual exercises and labs to work on.
Live Integration sessions, facilitated by an expert consultant from Aedvices, punctuate the program, giving students a space where they can articulate what they’ve learned and work on any difficulties. These Question & Answer sessions limited to 5 participants, ensure maximum interaction and optimal quality in the exchange. Feedback from quizzes connects phases of Independent Learning with Live Integrations sessions, making it easy to identify the most important learning points to focus on. Each training module also includes team workshops to put theoretical concepts into practice through collaborative work.
Each trainee is also assigned a dedicated expert trainer for personalized follow-up and many have tutor-mentors also (depending on the company’s capacity to provide such support).
Adapting to market trends
The advantages of the MILLI format are numerous and meet the requirements of the engineering profession.
“MILLI facilitates a high-quality student-trainer relationship based on old-fashioned, synchronous interactions, making explanations and discussions faster, more effective and fun. It does this by displacing any material that can be delivered asynchronously to its rightful place: the Learning Management System (LMS). By taking advantage of the well-known advantages of an LMS, we allow students more autonomy while freeing up trainer time for use in interactive sessions. This makes a powerful and economic training solution”, explains Andrew Betts, CEO of ICONDA Solutions.
Benefits for the learner and its company
Aedvices’ training courses not only help students learn, they also assess their ability to apply new concepts to their own professional projects. Feedback indicates that this also benefits their peers, as leading-edge techniques within their teams. The impact on company performance is therefore considerable.
“Thanks to the workshops we run, we can ensure that the knowledge acquired by trainees is put into practice in their own project. Skills are validated during a final interview based on the learning objectives of each module. We also carry out follow-ups over long periods to measure the benefits of the training for the company and not just for the learner,” explains François Cerisier.
The MILLI training catalog currently includes 5 modules dedicated to verification techniques and languages and 5 modules dedicated to verification methodologies and know-how. Each module can be followed independently or as part of a tailor-made program.