NCKU Students Watch The Mountain Makers to Reflect on Taiwan’s Semiconductor Legacy and Embrace Industry Commitment-國立成功大學永續發展SDGs

The Academy of Innovative Semiconductor and Sustainable Manufacturing of National Cheng Kung University’s (NCKU) recently hosted its first-ever extracurricular event—a private screening of The Mountain Makers: A Century’s Gamble, the first comprehensive documentary chronicling the development of Taiwan’s semiconductor industry. The event drew enthusiastic participation from over 200 faculty members and students. More than just an extension of technological and industrial knowledge, the event served as a profound dialogue on historical evolution and humanistic values.


Generously sponsored in full by Honorary Professor Huey-Jen Jenny Su, the event was organized by the Academy of Innovative Semiconductor and Sustainable Manufacturing and extended invitations to both NCKU students and faculty, as well as students from Tainan First Senior High School. This inclusive effort exemplified NCKU’s strong commitment to science popularization and inter school collaboration. Dean Yen-Kun Su of the Academy of Innovative Semiconductor and Sustainable Manufacturing remarked,“This screening was more than just watching a film—it was a witness to history and a moment of emotional connection. We hope young people not only appreciate the achievements of technology but also understand the stories and people behind them. More importantly, they should recognize why Taiwan’s semiconductor industry has earned its reputation as the ‘Guardian of the Nation.’”


The Academy of Innovative Semiconductor and Sustainable Manufacturing of NCKU has continuously emphasized that technological advancement should be interwoven with social dynamics and humanistic values. This film screening embodied that very philosophy—encouraging students to go beyond technical knowledge and gain insights into the historical context of the industry, the pivotal figures behind technological progress, and the cultural positioning of semiconductors within Taiwan’s national strategy.


The documentary The Mountain Makers: A Century’s Gamble explores the evolution of Taiwan’s semiconductor industry, spotlighting the experiences of pioneering engineers, female line workers, policymakers, and today’s young professionals. It delves deep into the stories behind the chips—highlighting not only Taiwan’s spirit of innovation, but also the industry’s broader global significance.


Following the screening, a discussion session took place, where many students expressed being deeply inspired. They gained a more profound appreciation for the hardships that shaped Taiwan’s semiconductor success and a deeper understanding of the historical responsibilities carried by today’s tech professionals. Through this event, the Academy of Innovative Semiconductor and Sustainable Manufacturing of NCKU reaffirmed its core educational mission: cultivating future talent equipped not only with technical expertise but also with historical awareness and social consciousness.


In an era defined by rapid technological change and intense global competition, this event was more than just an extracurricular activity—it marked the beginning of a cultural and industrial legacy. Looking ahead, the college will continue to organize similar events that bridge teaching, research, and societal dialogue, with the goal of nurturing advanced semiconductor professionals who embody both global vision and local commitment.