As part of Big Data Belfast 2025, eFutures hosted a panel discussion entitled Global Challenges for Semiconductors at the Waterfront Hall, Belfast, on 22 October 2025. The session brought together industry leaders and stakeholders to explore the global pressures shaping the semiconductor sector and to reflect on the strategic actions required to address them.
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The panel was chaired by eFutures Programme Manager Beth McEvoy and featured contributions from leading voices across industry and innovation: Sean Redmond, President of Silicon Catalyst Europe; Cormac McAteer, Digital Transformation at Seagate Technology; and Siobhán Ní Chofaigh, CEO of Mintek. Together, the panel offered a multi-perspective view of the challenges and opportunities facing the global semiconductor ecosystem.
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Discussion focused on the evolving dynamics of global semiconductor supply chains, the pace and direction of technological innovation, and the importance of strategic collaboration between industry, academia, and policymakers. Panellists highlighted how geopolitical pressures, skills shortages, and infrastructure constraints are reshaping priorities across the sector, while also pointing to areas of opportunity for coordinated action and long-term investment.
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The session provided attendees with valuable insights into how organisations can navigate these challenges and contribute to shaping the future of the semiconductor landscape. By bringing together expertise from across the sector, the panel encouraged informed discussion and knowledge exchange, supporting participants to better understand the global context in which semiconductor research, development, and manufacturing now operate.
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eFutures was pleased to contribute to Big Data Belfast 2025 through this session and to facilitate discussion on issues of critical importance to the future of semiconductors. Events such as this play an important role in strengthening dialogue across the community and supporting strategic thinking around the sector’s global challenges and opportunities.
