On Saturday, 11 October 2025, Distinguished International Associates 2024 (DIA), funded by the Royal Academy of Engineering and held in collaboration with ASHRAE USM Student Branch, organized a workshop titled “ASHRAE Workshop: Energy Conservation Initiative for Semiconductor Industry.” A total of 17 engineering undergraduates participated, reflecting strong enthusiasm for understanding energy efficiency and sustainability within the semiconductor sector.

The workshop commenced with Associate Prof. Dr. Yu Kok Hwa leading an engaging session that began with an ice-breaking activity, fostering interaction among participants. This was followed by an introduction to the semiconductor industry and a comprehensive discussion on key topics including carbon footprint assessment in semiconductor production, the importance of cleanroom environments, chemical vapor deposition (CVD) techniques, and various etching processes. To enhance engagement and learning enjoyment, a short quiz session using Kahoot was conducted, adding an interactive and entertaining element to the technical workshop. A small gift was presented to the student who achieved the highest score in the quiz, recognizing outstanding participation and enthusiasm. 

After the lunch break, Associate Prof. Dr. Yu Kok Hwa continued with an in-depth session on heat transfer, where participants performed hands-on calculations to strengthen their understanding of thermal management in semiconductor systems. The second half of the workshop featured Ts. Mr. Ng Wei Lin, who shared his professional expertise on cleanroom operations and sustainability practices within the semiconductor industry, providing valuable insights from an industrial perspective.

Overall, the workshop successfully combined theoretical knowledge, interactive learning, and industrial exposure. Participants gained a holistic understanding of the relationship between energy conservation, semiconductor manufacturing, and sustainability, aligning with ASHRAE’s mission to promote environmentally responsible engineering practices and continuous professional development.