Sample chart showing fewer scratches in wafers handled by trained personnel compared to those handled by untrained operators. Conclusion On-site training is important to develop the fab workforce. Employees need to know the whole picture of how to build the product, how the device operates, and how their individual job can affect the next process step as well as final device performance. Visualized Process Flow training for each device generation helps fab people, regardless of their backgrounds, understand advanced technology issues. The cost of a wafer-handling program turns out to be a good investment for the fab.
Operators can analyze problems with proper knowledge and develop potential solutions.
Operators will become a source of ideas for process and equipment improvements. For each semiconductor production line, instead of having only a few device engineers working for yield improvement, the on-site training programs can empower the entire workforce for this effort. The continuous improvement of employees through training will motivate the manufacturing workforce, help them enjoy their work and take pride in it, and help the company be more successful. The author would like to thank Yuri Bukhbinder and all members of our device department for their continuing support and encouragement. The Key to Japan's Competitive Success, p 43.