New Interactive Semiconductor Exhibit Launches at Techniquest
19th June 2026
A new interactive exhibit designed to showcase the impact of compound semiconductors in everyday life has officially launched at Techniquest in Cardiff Bay.
Developed by Whitefire Associates Ltd. and jointly funded through the UKRI Strength in Places Fund (SIPF) project and the EPSRC South Wales Compound Semiconductor Place Based Impact Acceleration Account (SWCS PBIAA), the hands-on exhibit introduces visitors to the technologies enabled by compound semiconductors and the vital role they play in modern society.
The exhibit explores a range of real-world applications, from improving the efficiency of renewable energy systems and enabling faster charging for electric vehicles, to supporting advanced satellite mapping technologies using lasers. Through interactive activities and engaging content, visitors can discover how these advanced semiconductor technologies underpin many aspects of daily life and contribute to solving some of society's biggest challenges.
The official launch took place at Techniquest on Thursday 18th June, bringing together members of the CSconnected community, industry partners, and their families to experience the new exhibit. Guests enjoyed refreshments, networking opportunities, and opening remarks from CSconnected Managing Director, Howard Rupprecht.
The installation forms part of CSconnected's ongoing commitment to raising awareness of the South Wales compound semiconductor cluster and inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators.
Brandon Jones, Skills Manager at CSconnected, said:
"We're delighted to have worked closely with both Techniquest and Whitefire Associates on this exciting new interactive exhibit. Compound semiconductors are enabling technologies that power innovations across communications, healthcare, transport, energy and space, yet many people are unaware of their importance in everyday life. With Techniquest reaching almost 30,000 school pupils each year from across Wales and beyond, this exhibit provides a fantastic opportunity to showcase the innovative work taking place within our cluster and inspire young people to explore future careers in science, technology, and engineering."
Rachel Morgan, Programme Manager for South Wales Compound Semiconductor PBIAA, said:
“The UK has strong and vibrant compound semiconductor manufacturing capabilities centred on the South Wales cluster ‘CSconnected’, and its world-leading companies. Few outside the sector realise that compound semiconductors power the technologies which underpin our daily lives, from the Internet and smart phones to GPS and energy efficient LED lighting, whilst also driving future innovation in 6G wireless, ultra high-speed optical fibre connectivity and LIDAR for autonomous vehicles.
The SWCS PBIAA is thrilled to have collaborated with CSconnected and Whitefire Associates to co-design such an engaging and interactive exhibit at Techniquest, promoting awareness of the CS industry and offering an invaluable opportunity for the young scientists and engineers of the future to learn about CS technologies and explore career pathways into the sector.”
Andrea Meyrick, Head of Learning at Techniquest, said:
“We have partnered with CSconnected on a number of projects in recent years, both at our Cardiff Bay centre and in schools. Together, we’re making semiconductors more understandable and accessible for young people across South Wales, while showcasing the strength of this industry in Wales and inspiring pupils to consider future careers in the sector.
Co-creating this exhibit has been a real highlight for us, and we’re delighted to be bringing another engaging new experience to our exhibition. We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved and are confident that visitors to Techniquest will enjoy exploring, playing, and learning from it for many years to come.”
The South Wales compound semiconductor cluster is internationally recognised for its expertise in research, innovation and manufacturing. By creating engaging experiences that make complex technologies more accessible, CSconnected and its partners are helping to build awareness of the sector while encouraging more young people to consider future opportunities within one of Wales' most important high-tech industries. Visitors can experience the new exhibit as part of a general admission visit to Techniquest in Cardiff Bay.
ABOUT
The Place Based Impact Acceleration Account (PBIAA) is strengthening existing partnerships and clusters, and developing new co-created opportunities in engineering and physical sciences and beyond, built on local and national insights. The SWCS PBIAA is led by Cardiff University in collaboration with Swansea University working closely with industry and public sector partners within the South Wales compound semiconductor cluster, CSconnected.
Techniquest is a dynamic and engaging science discovery centre in Cardiff, dedicated to inspiring young people in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
CSconnected is a not-for-profit organisation focused on expanding the South Wales compound semiconductor industry.
For further information:
Nina Stevens: comms@csconnected.com
