On October 22, LebNet partnered with the IEEE student branch at ASU to host an engaging panel on the semiconductor industry. The event drew around 30 attendees, including students, professors, and industry professionals. The panel was moderated by Rony Ferzli (Co-Founder, Papr.AI) and featured distinguished panelists Jihad Abbas (AMD), Sleiman Bou-Sleiman (Synopsys), Karim El Roz (ASM), and Tarek Gebrael (Intel).
The evening began with a brief introduction to LebNet before moving into the discussion. Panelists explored the foundations of chip design, covering the role of IP and EDA tools as “building blocks,” the microscopic work of advanced manufacturing machines, and industry models such as Integrated Device Manufacturers (IDMs) versus fabless companies. They also highlighted how collaboration across the ecosystem brings complex semiconductor products to life.
Rony guided the conversation through key innovation drivers, including AI, AR/VR, and automotive applications. Topics spanned heterogeneous computing, chiplet architectures, transistor design, multi-die packaging, and materials challenges, as well as limitations like thermal, power, and reliability constraints. Panelists emphasized the growing role of AI in design and manufacturing.
The discussion then turned to the workforce of tomorrow. Panelists addressed emerging engineering roles, AI as a “co-pilot,” and the skills most in demand. They stressed the value of multidisciplinary expertise beyond electrical and computer engineering and highlighted the importance of software skills and collaboration in shaping the next generation of semiconductor professionals.
Audience questions covered supply chain challenges, future-ready skills, and curriculum adaptation, sparking dialogue between students, professors, and industry leaders. Post-panel networking included ideas for student-focused initiatives, such as coding sessions, and strategies to better prepare future talent for the evolving semiconductor landscape.
The session delivered actionable insights and fostered meaningful connections across students, academia, and industry. A heartfelt thank you to our panelists, moderator, Arizona LebNet and IEEE community members, and the LebNet leadership team for making this event a success. Your support and dedication to knowledge-sharing continue to strengthen our network and inspire what comes next.
Stay tuned for more Arizona events, and follow or join LebNet to engage in upcoming discussions, networking opportunities, and programs empowering Lebanese in tech.
Check the full event album by clicking on the photo below!
