The IEEE Portugal Section continues to expand its technical footprint with the creation of a new chapter dedicated to one of the most critical fields shaping modern technology: Electronic Design Automation (EDA). The newly formed CEDA Portugal chapter emerges with a clear mission, to bridge academia and industry while fostering innovation in microelectronics and semiconductor design.

At the helm of this initiative is Chair Fábio Passos, whose vision reflects both ambition and purpose. He describes CEDA as “a community of excellence that connects cutting-edge research and industry,” emphasizing its role in driving impactful innovation. Looking ahead, he envisions CEDA Portugal as a national hub capable of attracting talent, strengthening academia-industry ties, and positioning Portugal as a relevant player in the European semiconductor ecosystem. Beyond strategy, what excites him most is the opportunity to cultivate a collaborative community and inspire future generations of engineers and researchers, though, in another life, he admits he might have pursued photography and travel, perhaps even with National Geographic.

Supporting this vision is Vice Chair Ricardo Martins, whose journey into EDA began during his master’s studies at Instituto Superior Técnico. Combining an interest in integrated circuit layout design with software development, he found his path in Electronic Design Automation, a field he has now been part of for over 15 years. His motivation to help establish CEDA Portugal stems from years of involvement in CEDA, supported events and witnessing the impact of similar chapters internationally. He believes the Portuguese chapter can significantly influence the national ecosystem by attracting students, researchers, engineers, and companies, ultimately strengthening Portugal’s role in the European semiconductor industry. If given a superpower, Ricardo jokes it would simply be doubling his working speed, proof of the growing demands and opportunities in this field.

As Secretary, Nuno Neves focuses on building a strong foundation for the chapter. He envisions a dynamic environment where members can engage in high-quality seminars and workshops, while also benefiting from mentorship and integration opportunities. His goal is clear: reduce the gap between fundamental research and industrial application. However, he acknowledges that the initial phase will not be without challenges. Establishing effective communication channels, engaging both academia and industry, and attracting student participation will require sustained organizational effort from the outset.

Completing the leadership team is Treasurer Guilherme Paim, who succinctly describes CEDA in one word: “Catalyst.” For him, the chapter operates behind the scenes as a “motor of opportunities,” connecting academic excellence in microelectronics and EDA with the business world to drive national growth. His perspective highlights the importance of often unseen efforts that enable innovation ecosystems to thrive. Outside engineering, Guilherme reveals a passion for financial markets, and intriguingly, suggests he might have become a master brewer if he had taken a different path. His guiding professional principle remains simple yet powerful: never stop being curious.

Together, this team represents a blend of experience, vision, and enthusiasm that positions CEDA Portugal for success. At its core, the chapter is more than an organizational structure, it is a platform for collaboration, learning, and innovation. By bringing together academia, industry, and students, CEDA Portugal aims to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of microelectronics in Portugal and beyond.

As the global demand for semiconductor technologies continues to rise, initiatives like this reinforce the importance of national ecosystems that are both connected and forward-looking. With a committed leadership team and a clear strategic direction, CEDA Portugal is poised to become a key contributor to that future.