Bad Ragaz/Balzers/Chur - INFICON and the University of Applied Sciences of the Grisons have agreed a partnership to offer a dual study course. Both sides expect the collaboration to result in the transfer of knowledge and technology as a measure to combat the shortage of skilled workers.

The technology supplier INFICON, which is based in Bad Ragaz in the canton of St.Gallen and operates a site in Balzers, Liechtenstein, is joining forces with the University of Applied Sciences of the Grisons for a dual study course. The aim here is to create a bridge between studying and practical vocational training, as the company writes in a press release. Both parties are hopeful that their partnership can help to combat the shortage of skilled workers. “It can also serve to attract prospective students in technical professions and degree courses for talented people and career changers with potential”, comments Corsin Capol, Director of Studies at the Institute for Data Analysis, Artificial Intelligence, Visualization and Simulation at the University of Applied Sciences of the Grisons, in the press release.

The aim is to jointly implement Bachelor’s theses in Artificial Intelligence in Software Engineering, Computational and Data Science, Mobile Robotics and Photonics. The resulting knowledge and technology transfer enables students to experience a combination of theoretical training and integrated practical phases. For example, they could apply current findings from applied research to real tasks in the company, the press release explains.

This networking can also lead to valuable collaborations in research projects. For example, project assignments and Bachelor's theses can be developed at the university and implemented as company projects in the real world, while also being supervised by lecturers from the university. “We train junior employees in a practical and academic way. This makes us an attractive employer and promotes top talent internally”, as Joël Gabathuler, Head Productions Engineering at INFICON, explains in the press release.

INFICON is a supplier of vacuum-based processes. Its innovative instrumentation, critical sensor technologies and Smart Manufacturing/Industry 4.0 software solutions serve to enhance the productivity and quality of tools, processes and complete factories. According to the press release, this is the first cooperation between the University of Applied Sciences of the Grisons and an industrial partner, although the university is already holding talks with other companies in relation to future partnerships.

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