Christelle Le Cam has been working in the semiconductor industry for over 25 years. Her years of research in Eindhoven marked the start of an international career in chip innovation. In this interview, she explains why the Lifeport region is such fertile ground for semiconductor innovation, why Europe needs to step up its efforts, and how Edge AI will change our world in the coming years.
Why does the Lifeport region perform so well in terms of technology and R&D in the semiconductor sector?
“This region has been a hotspot for chip design and manufacturing in the Netherlands for decades,” replies Christelle Le Cam, Senior Director of Front-End Innovation at NXP Semiconductors. “Every car that rolls off the production line worldwide contains chips that have been designed or manufactured here. That says something about the strength of our ecosystem.”
Semiconductors are invisible, but they are the silent driving force behind virtually everything we do. From healthcare to energy and from agriculture to mobility: chips are found everywhere. “It is precisely in these areas that the Netherlands holds strong positions,” she continues. “Agriculture around Wageningen, energy in the Arnhem region, medical innovations in Nijmegen. If we bring these worlds closer together, it will act as a catalyst for innovation.”
The Noviotech Campus plays a key role in this: “We’re building a network there that not only shows what’s available, but above all why it’s valuable.”
NXP NL Head Office
Talent is crucial
You emphasise that Europe must invest in technology and partnerships to remain globally competitive. What steps are essential for Lifeport Arnhem-Nijmegen Region in this regard?
“Talent is the key,” replies Le Cam without hesitation. “With the rise of AI, we need new and different skills. That means investing in training and in upskilling people who are already working in the sector. Long-term investment in talent is ultimately the driving force behind innovation.”
In addition, an attractive business climate is essential. “Think of the 30% scheme, the WBSO (Research and Development Promotion Act) and grants for R&D projects, such as IPCEI (Important Project of Common European Interest). As Gelderland co-funds these initiatives, this creates additional opportunities to strengthen the region.”
She also refers to the ‘Wennink report’, which calls on companies to invest more in R&D. “We must not only look at costs, but above all at long-term value. Make it attractive for companies to get involved.”
Ecosystem
You mention how important collaboration is between businesses, knowledge institutions and public authorities. Could you give a specific example of such a successful collaboration in the region?
“NXP has been involved in the Triple Helix programme within the Brainport ecosystem for many years,” says Le Cam. “That model works well. I think similar initiatives could also flourish here in the Lifeport region.”
According to her, the region has a unique ‘semiconductor signature’: “Companies and research institutions already collaborate effectively here. This allows new ideas to be tested and scaled up quickly. There are significant opportunities, particularly in design, industrialisation and advanced packaging, especially now that products are increasingly combining multiple chips and technologies.”
Smart computing power
You talk about ‘building systems at the edge’ and robotics. How does this translate into applications in the Lifeport region?
Le Cam: “Edge AI means that smart computing power isn’t in the cloud, but in the device itself – in a car, a machine or medical equipment. This makes systems faster, safer and more energy-efficient. You can’t – or don’t want to – send everything to the cloud.”
At NXP, people are collaborating globally on these technologies. “Innovation rarely arises in just one place. It’s usually an international effort.”
Favourable innovation climate
What initiatives are needed to attract and retain young researchers and engineers?
“Attracting and retaining talent doesn’t happen by itself,” says Le Cam. “Various factors play a part in this, such as a favourable climate for innovation. For example, companies can be incentivised through tax breaks or grants, so that we can continue to compete with countries that have lower wages. It is just as important that families have the prospect of a bright future, with good housing, schools and transport links.” 
Noviotech Campus
What is the role of Lifeport Arnhem-Nijmegen Region in international projects? And what does this mean for local businesses and start-ups?
Le Cam: “The Netherlands has a strong ecosystem of businesses, universities, government and start-ups. But that only works if we continue to invest consistently. Programmes such as the FNS 6G Growth Fund, IPCEI and WBSO help to sustain innovation and jobs.
The biggest challenge is ensuring that regional strengths are utilised effectively and do not become fragmented. With long-term investment in talent, we can make great strides.
The Noviotech Campus is a fine example of how public and private partners can work together to create a space that facilitates collaboration. Expanding that campus is a laudable ambition.”
Ready for the future
What trends or breakthroughs do you expect to see in semiconductor technology over the next 5–10 years, and how can the Arnhem–Nijmegen region respond to them?
“By building on the collaboration and innovation that already exist, this region can truly remain at the forefront of Edge AI. AI is becoming increasingly integrated into people’s lives and devices, in cars, machines and medical equipment. Robotics is playing an ever-greater role in factories and in our daily lives. This offers enormous opportunities: for smart technology, new jobs and a region that is ready for the future.”
Lifeport Semicon Event
Christelle Le Cam will be the keynote speaker at the Lifeport Semicon Event on 27 January. Her talk is entitled ‘Intelligent Systems at the Edge through Successful Collaboration Across the Ecosystem’.
On Tuesday 27 January, industry peers will gather at the Goffert Stadium in Nijmegen for an event brimming with new ideas, fresh perspectives, talks and discussions. Small in scale, big in impact.
Lifeport Semicon Event 2026
