PHOTOS: Governor Whitmer Visits Hemlock Semiconductor to Discuss Michigan’s Global Manufacturing Leadership

LANSING, Mich. - Governor Gretchen Whitmer today joined business, state and local officials for a tour of Hemlock Semiconductor’s facilities in Hemlock, commending the global silicon and semiconductor chemicals manufacturer for its longstanding commitment to Michigan and its contributions to Michigan’s leadership position in the semiconductor supply chain.

“Hemlock Semiconductor’s continued investment is further evidence that Michigan remains a place where high-tech talent needs can be met and companies of all sizes can grow,” said Governor Whitmer. “Hemlock’s presence in Michigan underscores our global manufacturing and automotive R&D leadership in helping to address the universal industry demand for semiconductors while creating good jobs for Michigan workers.”
 
Governor Whitmer is tackling the chip crisis facing the auto industry. She worked to bring SK Siltron, a new semiconductor wafer manufacturing and R&D facility, with 150 jobs near Bay City to support electric vehicle growth and support auto industry needs in-state. She also facilitated the opening of a new facility by KLA, a high-tech, Fortune 500 firm specializing in systems and software integral to chip and electronics manufacturing. The new KLA facility will create 600 good-paying jobs in Ann Arbor.

Michigan’s automotive industry purchased nearly $35 million in products and services from semiconductor companies in Michigan in 2020, building on the state’s leadership in semiconductor R&D and testing. Hemlock Semiconductor is part of a growing, comprehensive semiconductor ecosystem in the state that is supported by SK Siltron, KLA in Ann Arbor and the University of Michigan, which is the top global institute for semiconductor training on today’s issues to help solve tomorrow’s problems. As Michigan also continues leading the mobility industry in the development of electric and autonomous vehicles, demand for semiconductor manufacturers like Hemlock is expected to skyrocket over the coming years.

Governor Whitmer called on federal officials to fund the CHIPS Act in her State of the State address to fight the ongoing chip crisis head-on and take advantage of this once-in-a-generation opportunity to help grow critical sectors in Michigan’s economy.

“HSC is well-positioned to play a key role in building a robust domestic supply chain for semiconductors right here in Michigan,” said Hemlock President and Chief Executive Officer AB Ghosh. “Our hyper-pure polysilicon is a key component in the semiconductors found in billions of electronic devices around the world and in the solar panels that are essential to our transition to a clean energy economy. As a global market leader in both spaces, we see exciting tremendous growth opportunities ahead that will benefit HSC and the state of Michigan.”

“Hemlock’s longstanding presence in Michigan underscores our demonstrated leadership in advanced manufacturing within the semiconductor field,” said Michigan Economic Development Corporation CEO and Michigan Strategic Fund President and Chair Quentin Messer Jr, who joined Governor Whitmer on the tour. “We congratulate the entire Hemlock team on your growth and success and look forward to working together as you continue to grow and add jobs here in Michigan.”

 

 

 

About Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)

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