The National Science Foundation (NSF) of the United States has recently made a significant announcement regarding the funding of the National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC) through the “CHIPS and Science Act of 2022” research and development programs. This investment, totaling over $5 billion, was unveiled during a gathering at the White House, which was attended by key figures such as the NSF Director Sethuraman Panchanathan, leaders from the White House, and representatives from the departments of Commerce, Defense, and Energy. The allocation of this funding signifies a noteworthy step towards advancing semiconductor technology in the United States.
The announcement also brought attention to a substantial investment in the semiconductor workforce, with specific funding designated for various areas. This decision reflects President Joe Biden’s commitment to fostering American innovation and research and development.
At the event, an agreement was signed by Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimonda, Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm, Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks, and Natcast CEO Deirdre Hanford to establish the NSTC as the principal initiative of the CHIPS for America’s $11 billion R&D program. The occasion also featured speeches from the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy, Arati Prabhakar, which were followed by statements from the principals involved, including Panchanathan.
In his remarks, Panchanathan emphasized the pivotal role of the NSTC in propelling cutting-edge research and development, enhancing the semiconductor workforce, and ensuring the industry’s capacity to support American innovation, national security, competitiveness, and economic growth. He also highlighted NSF’s commitment to collaborating with the Department of Commerce, federal agencies, and Natcast to realize the shared vision for the NSTC, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts in maintaining the nation’s leadership in semiconductor technology on a global scale.
Subsequent to the funding announcement and the formal establishment of NSTC, leaders from the semiconductor community engaged in roundtable discussions focused on R&D opportunities and the necessity for industry involvement. These discussions also addressed how the CHIPS for America initiative will contribute to expanding talent accessibility for employers and providing opportunities for individuals interested in working in the semiconductor industry.
Panchanathan led a discussion on workforce development, joined by Prabhakar and Under Secretary of Commerce for Standards and Technology and National Institute of Standards and Technology Director, Laurie E. Locascio, as well as senior government leaders from various departments. The conversations underscored the significance of enhancing diversity in the U.S. STEM workforce, bolstering domestic manufacturing capabilities, and expediting the development of emerging technologies to drive future industries, such as artificial intelligence and biotechnology.
The announcements and discussions accentuate the collective dedication to advancing semiconductor technology and promoting innovation and growth within the industry. The investment in the NSTC and related programs is positioned to have a transformative impact on American semiconductor technology, echoing the nation’s dedication to maintaining its position as a global leader in this crucial field of innovation and development.
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