Coal Workers in Lusatia to Transition into Semiconductor Manufacturing

In a significant step towards regional economic transformation, coal workers in Lusatia are set to retrain for roles in the semiconductor industry. This initiative is part of a collaborative project between Globalfoundries, a leading chip manufacturer headquartered in Dresden, and Lausitz Energie Bergbau AG (LEAG), a major energy provider in eastern Germany.

The project is designed to address the ongoing structural changes in the region brought about by the gradual phase-out of lignite coal. As traditional mining jobs decline, efforts are underway to provide new employment opportunities in high-tech sectors. Under the pilot scheme, an initial group of ten LEAG employees will participate in a three-month training program at the Globalfoundries facility in Dresden, where they will acquire specialized skills necessary for semiconductor production.

Participation in this pilot program is voluntary, with the first group expected to begin training in the first quarter of 2026. The initiative aims to capitalize on the technical expertise and industrial experience of the workforce, enabling a smoother transition from coal mining to advanced manufacturing. The retraining process is specifically tailored to build on existing knowledge while introducing participants to the precision and requirements of semiconductor fabrication.

The collaboration between Globalfoundries and LEAG extends beyond workforce redeployment. It is a strategic response to the challenges posed by the energy transition and aims to preserve regional value creation. By fostering new career paths in the technology sector, the project seeks to maintain economic stability in Lusatia and support its development as a model region for structural change.

Globalfoundries, with production sites in Dresden, the United States, and Asia, employs around 3,000 people in its Dresden facility alone. The company relies on skilled and adaptable personnel to meet the growing demand in the global semiconductor market. LEAG, employing approximately 6,500 people, is the largest energy producer in eastern Germany and is simultaneously advancing its renewable energy portfolio, including battery storage and hydrogen-ready power plants.

This partnership addresses two major challenges: the need for qualified specialists in the semiconductor industry and the creation of sustainable employment for those affected by the coal phase-out. Both companies benefit from the transfer of knowledge and skills, which is essential for maintaining the competitiveness of the German technology sector.

Looking ahead, the project represents a blueprint for similar initiatives across regions facing economic shifts due to the energy transition. By investing in workforce development and encouraging cross-sector cooperation, Lusatia aims to secure long-term prosperity for its residents while reinforcing its role in Germany's shift towards renewable energy and advanced manufacturing.