Skilling up within an integrated photonics ecosystem: just-in-time workforce training for More Moore (Invited Paper)

Photonic integrated circuits (PICs) in datacom/computing and select applications are now essential components; but post-Moore’s Law performance scaling leads to underdetermined electronic-photonic device innovation and materials integration. This requires a continuous workforce training curriculum and methodology, to periodically upskill in iterating High Volume Manufacturing standards for PICs and Co-Packaged Optics (CPO). Findings from the Integrated Photonic Systems Roadmap-International have informed a dual (i) synchronous and (ii) asynchronous curricula and design-based methodology: (i) a graduate-to-industry program with project-based learning, and test/packaging bootcamp; (ii) online MOOCs reinforced with VR or digital twin/game simulators. This approach emphasizes application-specific training, using project-based and gamified learning. Previous accomplishments in design-based training will be reviewed as prelude to AI computing, whose energy demands compel a need for joint training in CPO and Life Cycle Assessment curricula; online and gamified content will be presented. Finally, hybrid learning will be discussed, with prospects to autonomously deploy within industry.