Arizona Leads US in Semiconductor Investments and Workforce Development

Arizona: A Leader in the Semiconductor Industry Boom

PHOENIX, AZ (July 9, 2024) – As SEMICON West 2024 kicks off, Arizona finds itself at the forefront of America’s semiconductor industry rejuvenation.

Arizona has become the national leader in semiconductor investments, supplier expansions, and job creation. Since 2020, the state has secured over 40 semiconductor expansion projects, accounting for more than $102 billion in capital investments and the creation of over 15,700 direct jobs within the industry. These initiatives encompass the entire semiconductor ecosystem, from manufacturing to workforce development.

Arizona’s ascent to the top position in Business Facilities Magazine’s state semiconductor rankings highlights its innovations and workforce development strategies. The Harvard Business Review has also acknowledged Arizona’s innovative talent training programs.

In recognition of its leadership, SEMICON West, North America’s leading microelectronics exhibition, will relocate to Phoenix on a rotating schedule after 50 years in San Francisco. Phoenix will host the conference in 2025, 2027, and 2029 at the Phoenix Convention Center.

Arizona has attracted diverse investments across the semiconductor ecosystem, including R&D and equipment (such as Applied Materials, ASM), materials suppliers (Edwards Vacuum, Sunlit Chemical), and manufacturing operations (Intel, TSMC).

CHIPS Act and Arizona

Arizona has been a focal point for the CHIPS Act funding, with significant allocations to local semiconductor companies. In March, Intel and the U.S. Department of Commerce announced up to $8.5 billion in funding, supplementing Intel’s $34.5 billion investment in Arizona and creating 3,000 new jobs. Shortly after, TSMC and the U.S. Department of Commerce announced up to $6.6 billion in funding, with plans to build a third semiconductor fab, raising TSMC’s total investment to over $65 billion and generating more than 6,000 jobs.

Enhancing Semiconductor Innovation

Arizona has committed to strengthening its semiconductor infrastructure and workforce through the CHIPS Act. The Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA) has invested $100 million in the state’s universities for this purpose, including:

$47.5 million to Arizona State University for the Applied Materials/ASU Materials to Fab Laboratory.

$35.5 million to the University of Arizona for the expansion of its Micro/Nano Fabrication Center.

$13 million to Northern Arizona University for a Microelectronics Metrology certificate program.

$4 million for Registered Apprenticeship Programs for semiconductor technicians.

Building the Semiconductor Talent Pipeline

Arizona is actively working to cultivate a skilled workforce for its burgeoning semiconductor industry. Last year, Governor Hobbs announced a Future48 Workforce Accelerator in collaboration with Maricopa Community Colleges to address the industry’s growing needs. The accelerator offers industry-led training in advanced manufacturing sectors, establishing novel training pathways for entry into the microelectronics field.

Arizona’s innovative workforce solutions include the nationally recognized Semiconductor Technician Quick Start Program. Launched in 2022, this 10-day boot camp has certified over 900 students for careers in the semiconductor sector.

Media Contact

Alyssa Tufts, Arizona Commerce Authority, [email protected]

About the Arizona Commerce Authority

The Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA) is the state’s leading economic development organization, focused on growing and strengthening Arizona’s economy. The ACA’s strategy involves attracting out-of-state companies, expanding existing businesses, and supporting entrepreneurs in creating new enterprises in targeted industries. For more information, visit azcommerce.com and follow them on Twitter @azcommerce.