The Circuit EP 135: Talking Semiconductor Recruiting
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Sep 29, 2025 Michael Cunningham, a recruiter and partner at Lonergan Partners specializing in semiconductor and deep-tech talent, shares insights on the evolving recruitment landscape. He discusses the impact of AI on talent demand and the challenges of reshoring manufacturing. Michael highlights the skills in high demand, emphasizing the resurgence of analog expertise and the importance of soft skills. He offers advice for entry-level engineers on gaining experience and outlines the qualities CEOs should seek in new hires to foster effective leadership.
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Recruiting As 'Brokerage Of Human Emotion'
- Michael jokes that 'headhunter' bothered him less over time and prefers 'brokerage of human emotion.'
- He describes his role as counselor-like when placing executives due to the emotional stakes.
AI Supercharges Semiconductor Growth
- Semiconductor growth is accelerating from low single digits to double digits, driven largely by AI demand.
- That shift creates a projected long-term talent shortage and changes what future leaders must look like.
Reshoring Will Move The Needle — Slowly
- Reshoring is happening but will not return fab dominance to the U.S. overnight.
- Large projects like TSMC's Arizona fab help but only modestly increase U.S. global share by 2032.