The March announcement by President Joe Biden that the U.S. Department of Commerce and Intel Corporation have reached terms on $8.5 billion in direct funding under the CHIPS and Science Act spotlights efforts to establish American leadership in semiconductor manufacturing.
Intel has invested billions in its manufacturing facilities in Chandler. Current investments are building two factories and modernizing an existing fab to produce leading-edge logic chips in Chandler. These chips are essential to the world’s most advanced technologies like artificial intelligence, which will help ensure more of these chips are made domestically.
“The announcement builds upon Intel’s capabilities, expanding innovation, opportunity, and high-quality jobs in our community,” says Chandler Mayor Kevin Hartke. “These investments have spawned a unique ecosystem of semiconductor industry manufacturing, suppliers and innovators in Chandler.”
High-tech manufacturing spans more than 300 companies, employing nearly 28,000 workers in Chandler. The manufacturing industry represents 20% of all jobs in Chandler, the highest percentage among the largest 10 cities in the Valley.
Intel and Chandler have a relationship spanning 45 years that supports the most complex manufacturing processes in the world. Infrastructure improvements, water, and wastewater treatment, building development processes, economic and workforce development and public safety are some of the specific services involved in supporting the semiconductor manufacturing industry.
The Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry has recognized Chandler as the Best City for Business in Arizona. The business-friendly tax climate, regulatory policies, and reliable infrastructure make it easy and attractive for companies to locate and expand. Chandler also has the lowest combined taxes, utility rates, and costs for services among Valley cities.
An educated population is one of the greatest strengths to attract quality jobs and build a semiconductor talent pipeline to serve Chandler industries. Workforce development illustrates the power of this collaboration and innovation by engaging the business community, higher education and tech platforms that connect people with training and jobs.
The announcement of CHIPS and Science Act funding for Intel supports continued investment in Chandler and furthers the country’s economic and national security interests in the semiconductor manufacturing industry.
