THIS JUST IN: Latest investments boost Michigan’s leadership in semiconductor industry
Thursday, September 8, 2022
With a strong history of leadership in manufacturing, Michigan is now paving the way as a world-leading innovation hub for the semiconductor industry.
With a rich history in manufacturing and innovation, Michigan is poised to be a guiding hand as the world’s needs for semiconductor technology continue to evolve in the 21st century. As the global epicenter of the automotive industry and home to one-fifth of U.S. auto production, Michigan is equipped to support the increasing global demand for semiconductor technology.
Michigan's demonstrated leadership in advanced manufacturing within the semiconductor field is evident in companies with a longstanding presence in the state, such as Hemlock Semiconductor Corporation, the largest producer of polysilicon in the U.S. Hemlock was chosen as the site of Governor Whitmer’s CHIPS Act executive directive signing thanks to its key role in Michigan’s growing semiconductor industry.
On Sept. 7, 2022, Hemlock announced plans to invest $375 million and create 170 jobs at its facilities in Thomas Township, further ensuring Hemlock’s long-term commitment to continue to produce the essential polysilicon for the semiconductor and solar industries in Michigan.
"We built our global reputation on the ability to stay at the forefront of high-tech polysilicon production for the critical semiconductor and solar industries. We built our global reputation on the ability to stay at the forefront of high-tech polysilicon production for the critical semiconductor and solar industries."
Meanwhile, semiconductor wafer manufacturer SK Siltron recently celebrated the ribbon cutting of its $300 million facility with Governor Whitmer on Sept. 1, 2022. SK Siltron announced plans in July 2021 for the expansion of operations in Bay County, creating up to 150 jobs.
“SK Siltron CSS is thrilled to expand our presence in Michigan and reinforce our commitment to the entire Bay City community, while creating high-paying jobs and new investment opportunities. The exceptional people of Bay City and our strong local partners are the reason we were able to expand so aggressively in the area. The support we have received is truly unmatched. This significant investment in Bay City will further boost the confidence levels of not only our customers, but also the entire electrical vehicle value chain to accelerate the pace of EV adoption.”
This week’s announcements build on the momentum of the passage and signing of the CHIPS and Science Act by President Biden in August, further bolstering Michigan’s leadership role in the national semiconductor supply chain and next generation of the automotive industry.
Read more about how Michigan is leading the semiconductor industry here.
To learn more about Michigan’s leadership in the semiconductor industry, visit www.michiganbusiness.org/semiconductor.
President Biden also recently announced that the Detroit Regional Partnership Foundation was among the winners of the $1 billion Build Back Better Regional Challenge, funded by the American Rescue Plan and administered by the Commerce Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA). The Global Epicenter of Mobility (GEM) coalition, led by the Detroit Regional Partnership Foundation, will receive approximately $52.2 million to create a smart, secure, sustainable, and inclusive advanced-mobility industry, starting with the transition to next-generation electric, autonomous, and fully connected vehicles.
About Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)
The Michigan Economic Development Corporation is the state’s marketing arm and lead advocate for business development, job awareness and community development with the focus on growing Michigan’s economy. For more information on the MEDC and our initiatives, visit www.MichiganBusiness.org. For Pure Michigan® tourism information, your trip begins at www.michigan.org. Join the conversation on: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn, and Twitter.
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