In a significant development for the technology landscape in California, the Biden-Harris Administration, in conjunction with the Department of Commerce and Natcast, has identified Sunnyvale, CA, as the expected site for the new CHIPS for America Design and Collaboration Facility (DCF). This facility is set to advance semiconductor design and research, fostering collaboration through the National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC). According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, this initiative directly responds to the critical need to reinforce the U.S. semiconductor supply chain and enhance R&D within the nation's borders.
Establishing the DCF marks a strategic move to escalate U.S. semiconductor capabilities. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo stated via the U.S. Department of Commerce, "The research and development component of the CHIPS and Science Act is fundamental to our long-term national security and ensuring the U.S. remains the most technologically competitive place on earth." The facility is poised to become a nexus for industry, academia, and government partners to address industry challenges and drive economic growth simultaneously. Under Secretary of Commerce for Standards and Technology, Laurie E. Locascio added, "Through physical and digital assets, this proposed facility will help researchers, educators, and companies from across the country solve the most pressing challenges facing the semiconductor industry."
As per a recent announcement by the California Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz), the DCF signifies more than just a regional investment; it is seen as a catapult for California's innovation economy, leveraging the state's rich resources in the semiconductor sector. To bolster the strategic placement in Silicon Valley, the facility will focus on semiconductor research in numerous advanced areas, such as chip design and hardware security. Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi praised the move, saying, "With California designated for the next CHIPS for America research and development flagship facility, the Golden State will lead the way with innovative technologies that will lower costs for America's working families."
Furthering the commitment to workforce development, the new DCF will incorporate the NSTC Workforce Center of Excellence, aimed to prepare and enrich a diverse talent pool vital for maintaining the semiconductor industry's growth trajectory. It promises to create more than 200 jobs in the next decade directly. Meanwhile, UC's Vice President for Research and Innovation, Theresa Maldonado, Ph.D., P.E., said, as per the California Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development, "The University of California is committed to working hand-in-hand with Natcast and the DCF on next generation semiconductor research and workforce development to ensure the U.S. remains a world leader in this field." Emphasizing the consolidation of California's global position in technological innovation and entrepreneurship, the arrival of the DCF will undeniably ignite a robust synergy between research and commercial sectors.
