When you think of the states most known for semiconductor manufacturing, California and Texas are among those that come to mind first. However, Indiana is rapidly proving itself as a contender as a new chip manufacturing hub. That is largely due to several factors, including its participation in a Midwest semiconductor network and some key agreements with foreign countries.
Three-state initiative
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Even though there are federal initiatives intended to strengthen the nation’s semiconductor supply chain, state-based efforts are necessary, too. News broke in August 2022 that Indiana, Michigan and Ohio would form a Midwest semiconductor network of 12 research colleges and universities. This collaboration will involve curriculum changes, experiential learning and research projected to increase semiconductor innovation and make supply chains more resilient.
Some of the initial activities planned for the Midwest semiconductor network include creating a secure information-sharing platform, facilitating regional collaborations and workshops and developing pilot projects to leverage existing resources across the region and use them to address the region’s needs. A steering committee with representatives from all participating schools will help the participants choose their next steps.
The idea for the Midwest semiconductor network initially came to light during a two-day workshop at Ohio State University in April 2022. Dedicated, multi-party efforts like this one are instrumental in making prolonged headway in increasing Indiana’s prominence in semiconductor production. The work will also build industry partnerships that could lead to shared projects, job opportunities and more.
Purdue collaborates with Europe and Japan
The chip shortage is still present and impacting the world. However, some estimates suggest the situation is improving for many industries. Progress often happens when parties with semiconductor resources or expertise sign agreements with other countries that could benefit from them.
Indiana’s Purdue University, along with state government leaders and officials, recently entered into a first-of-its-kind arrangement with imec’s nano and digital technology hub in Europe. The hub—a well-known lab-to-fab facility—has research sites across Belgium and focuses on advancing semiconductor technologies and artificial intelligence.
The involved parties expect that this partnership will increase Purdue’s presence in the semiconductor industry, including through the ongoing exchange of expertise. This knowledge sharing could lead to broadly applicable advancements.
Since semiconductors have high-performance requirements, many manufacturers look for lightweight but durable materials to use in their products. Ongoing, focused work could lead to the development of new designs, materials or other innovations that improve the industry at large.
In another recent case, Purdue University’s president signed an agreement with semiconductor companies in the United States and Japan. It will establish a network between the two countries that promotes research, development and workforce advancement in the semiconductor industry.
Semiconductor task force
In May 2022, during the inaugural Indiana Global Economic Summit, members from the Indiana Economic Development Corporation partnered with industry experts and other stakeholders from around Indiana. The goal was to announce the launch of the Accelerating Microelectronics Production & Development (AMPD) task force.
Those involved expect that the AMPD group will improve Indiana’s efforts to become a national leader in semiconductor production. Initial financial resources come from $2.7 million in state funding. Task force members will use it to create and conduct a marketing and outreach plan to engage with established and emerging companies in the industry to secure commitments from them.
AMPD members will also have insights from two global strategic consulting groups, using them to gain the most up-to-date information and techniques for engaging with potential collaborators.
Workforce readiness
By mid-2024, Indiana’s Westgate@Crane Technology Park will be the home of NHanced Semiconductors, Inc., an Illinois-based manufacturing innovator. The AP foundry will operate at WestGate One, an $84 million campus specializing in cutting-edge technologies.
When company president Bob Patti spoke to an audience at the WestGate Academy and Conference Center, he explained that NHanced Semiconductors’ technological innovations enable everything from faster, less power-consuming smartphones to lighter military fighter plane components.
Patti also discussed how Indiana’s semiconductor workforce will need more members, encompassing those with and without degrees. His company has hired someone to partner with universities to identify potential candidates.
It’s also good news that Indiana University announced new degree programs in microelectronics, semiconductors and nanofabrication. These offerings will give students the skills for success in these fast-growing, in-demand industries while strengthening Indiana’s research and development capabilities.
Finally, a February 2023 study by a workforce data analytics firm ranked the Elkhart-Goshen area of Indiana as eighth in the country for workforce readiness in the semiconductor industry. Regional representatives commenting on the study said they would make the most of opportunities to advance semiconductor production in the area, tapping into a skilled and eager workforce.
These are some of the many examples that highlight why Indiana could soon become a force to be reckoned with in the semiconductor industry. The emphasis placed on collaborations between states and countries will undoubtedly broaden the reach of efforts made by individual institutions within the network.
About the author
Emily Newton is a technical writer and the editor-in-chief of Revolutionized. She enjoys researching and writing about how technology is changing the industrial sector.
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