Interview with Oliver Whear: The Future of SiC Manufacturing

What does it really take to push semiconductor manufacturing forward? 

In the latest episode of the Semiconductor Leadership Podcast, host Salah Nasri sits down with Oliver Whear, Director of Semiconductor Technology at RENA Technologies, to discuss the latest developments in materials, metrology, and manufacturing—and the technologies that will shape the future of the industry.

Oliver brings over ten years of experience in deposition and wet process tools. In the interview, he shares exciting insights into the future of semiconductor manufacturing, with a particular focus on compound semiconductors and the rapid rise of silicon carbide (SiC).

He explains why RENA Technologies specializes in the processes many companies consider especially challenging: advanced solvent concepts and large-batch wet processes that are critical for high-quality wafer processing. From cleaning to wet etching, these process steps are essential to achieve stable results and high yield—especially for SiC wafers, where precision and process control play an even greater role.

A special highlight: Oliver talks about a new breakthrough in SiC wafer cleaning that can help improve chip yield while supporting more sustainable production. He also shows how innovative wet process solutions—supported by high-performance semiconductor wet bench technology—can meet the industry’s growing demands for efficiency, quality, and scalability.

Technical focus areas of this episode:

• Why wet processes account for nearly 30% of the manufacturing steps in semiconductor production—yet are often underestimated.

• RENA’s breakthrough in silicon carbide cleaning and its impact on cost, yield, and sustainability.

• The role of standards and ecosystems in shaping the future of compound semiconductors.

Oliver’s perspective offers valuable takeaways on what it takes to succeed in the next generation of semiconductor production.

» Watch the full episode on YouTube

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