‘At The Forefront of Our Country’s Economic Future’: Arizona Leaders React to TSMC Grant Article originally posted on AZ Central on April 9, 2024 The U.S. Department of Commerce announced a $6.6 billion grant for Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., which will use that money and its own funds to build a third fab or factory in north Phoenix, featuring the world’s most advanced chipmaking technology. Here is some of what Arizona business, political and education leaders are saying: Sen. Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) “It’s an exciting day for Arizona, where we are leading the way in bringing the most advanced microchip manufacturing back to America. That’s going to create thousands of great-paying jobs, many of which don’t require a four-year degree, and get more workers the skills they need to start these careers. It will also strengthen our national security by bringing critical-technology supply chains back from overseas and reinforcing ties between the United States and Taiwan.” Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs “Arizona is an international leader in the semiconductor industry, a testament to our strong and enduring relationship with TSMC. With this vital investment made possible by the CHIPS Act, this partnership will continue to thrive. We are at the forefront of our country’s economic future because of our high-skilled workforce and dynamic economic engine, and TSMC’s growth and investment right here in Arizona will continue to show the world that our state is the best place for businesses to invest.” Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego “Today’s announcement is yet another important milestone for Phoenix as we fast become the hub of the nation’s semiconductor industry. TSMC makes the world’s most advanced semiconductor technology, and thanks to this monumental investment, the company will be able to continue expanding in our city, creating thousands of high-wage jobs and fueling economic growth for generations.” Chris Camacho, president and CEO of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council “With the most advanced chips in the world, TSMC is ushering a new era of national solidity through domestic semiconductor production with backing from the CHIPS funding. Greater Phoenix has emerged as the heartbeat of U.S. advanced manufacturing capabilities, and the continued partnership and collaboration between the region and company will lift both to unprecedented heights.” Danny Seiden, president and CEO of the Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry “Congratulations to TSMC on this award, which underscores the value of the CHIPS Act and will help solidify Arizona’s place as the country’s leading hub for semiconductor manufacturing.” Sandra Watson, president and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority “TSMC’s expansion adds thousands of new jobs to Arizona’s rapidly growing semiconductor ecosystem, bolsters our state’s leadership in advanced chip technology and represents a new milestone for U.S. supply-chain resiliency.” Arizona State University President Michael Crow “Today’s announcement represents not only an acknowledgement of the impact TSMC will have on innovation in semiconductor manufacturing and research in the United States, it serves as a call to action for ASU, which has pledged its full capacity for innovation, workforce development and research to advance TSMC’s long-term success.” Kyle Squires, dean of ASU’s Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering “What makes our partnership with TSMC compelling is their strategic investments that are designed to foster a comprehensive partnership encompassing recruitment, student success, faculty engagement and breakthroughs in research and innovation. We anticipate a significant acceleration in our collaborative efforts, promising a transformative era for semiconductor innovation and technology.” Dr. Steven Gonzales, Maricopa County Community College District chancellor “TSMC is creating opportunities for our students to learn new technologies and develop the skills necessary to shape the future of work. I look forward to the collaboration ahead as we strengthen our existing semiconductor ‘Quick Start’ programming and work with TSMC to develop an apprenticeship pathway.”