Michigan Governor Announces $1.5 Million for Semiconductor Investments

SEMI, the global industry association that unites the entire electronics manufacturing and design supply chain, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation recently announced new funding for the SEMI Foundation that will see the development of the SEMI Career and Apprenticeship Network (SCAN) in the state.

The recently approved CHIPS Act is poised to provide $52 billion in funding to boost the U.S. semiconductor market, with up to $5 billion of that being set to support the supply chain. The goal of the act is to rejuvenate the U.S. domestic semiconductor industry; since 1990, the U.S. share of global semiconductor manufacturing capacity has declined from 37% to just 12%.

Governor Whitmer said that as “global demand for semiconductors continues to grow, Michigan is poised to be a solution provider for semiconductor shortages and puts companies in the heart of semiconductor and battery R&D efforts nationwide…Michigan is one of only three states that will be launching planning work to define curricula to support employers in the semiconductor industry. With this new apprenticeship program, along with our global manufacturing and automotive R&D leadership, we are leading the charge in addressing the universal industry demand for semiconductors while creating good jobs for Michigan workers.”

Shari Liss, Executive Director of the SEMI Foundation, added that “SCRAN will provide critical job training to Michigan residents while helping the US microelectronics industry address its talent shortage…“We are thrilled to work in partnership with Michigan’s workforce development agencies and ecosystem to offer registered apprenticeships, a proven pathway to better jobs, and greater economic mobility and opportunity.”

Phase one of the funding will see the SEMI Foundation engage with key microelectronics employers, players in the automotive and manufacturing industries, and educational and workforce development providers.

In phase two, the SEMI Foundation will conduct focus groups and work with employers to identify jobs in the greatest demand as well as the skills and competencies needed for a skilled diverse workforce.