29

The Mérida Technological Institute (ITM) is positioning itself as a pioneer in southeastern Mexico by becoming the first and only higher education institution to offer a degree in semiconductors and to join the National Chamber of Electronics, Telecommunications, and Information Technology Industry (Canieti), highlighted director José Antonio Canto Esquivel.

This dual distinction places Yucatán on the path to national high-tech projects, allowing young people trained at the National Institute of Technology of Mexico (TecNM) to participate in chip design and validation, connecting directly with the global industry.

The ITM is already part of the priority areas of the National Innovation Agenda, especially in semiconductors, cybersecurity, and electromobility. The goal is for students to be trained within two to three years to join strategic projects, contributing to Mexico’s technological development with highly specialized talent.

Although semiconductor manufacturing is still carried out abroad, design and validation (key stages) can be developed in Mexico. Yucatán has the potential to excel in this sector, which requires little physical infrastructure but high economic value, a competitive advantage for the region.

A professor from TecNM Mérida is actively involved in the National Semiconductor Project within Canieti, guaranteeing a direct connection between academia and industry. This ensures that student training responds to real market needs, elevating their professional profile.

No other institution in the Yucatán Peninsula has achieved this connection with a business chamber like Canieti, consolidating TecNM Mérida as a leader in the articulation between education and technology.

Canto Esquivel emphasized that, in addition to technical skills, students must master English and strengthen soft skills, aspects also promoted by Canieti.

“We must stop depending on the outside and build from within with young people prepared for global challenges,” concluded the director.

TYT Newsroom