TSMC Expands Semiconductor Operations in Phoenix

News Summary

The Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company is significantly expanding its manufacturing operations in north Phoenix, creating hundreds of technician jobs that offer competitive salaries and minimal educational requirements. With a commitment of $165 billion towards its Arizona facilities, TSMC emphasizes local hiring and has initiated a Registered Technician Apprenticeship program in partnership with community colleges to train new workers. This expansion is critical for addressing the growing demand for skilled labor in the semiconductor industry and aims to strengthen the local economy.

Phoenix, Arizona – The Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) is actively expanding its semiconductor manufacturing operations in north Phoenix, seeking to fill hundreds of technician positions with competitive salaries and minimal educational requirements. The company is making strides to bolster local employment by emphasizing hiring from the surrounding community.

TSMC’s technician positions are open to applicants with just a high school diploma, eliminating the need for a college degree. The starting salary for these roles is around $50,000 per year, complemented by full benefits. This initiative is part of TSMC’s larger strategy to invest significantly in its Arizona facilities, which stretch over two miles and comprise multiple fabrication plants currently under construction. The company has pledged a total investment of $165 billion to enhance its operations in the region, a figure comparable to the cost of building the International Space Station.

At present, TSMC employs approximately 3,000 individuals at its current site and expects that figure to increase to around 6,000 as expansion continues. Currently, there are numerous job openings for technician roles, and the company places a strong emphasis on local hiring to support the economy and workforce in Phoenix.

The technician positions will include comprehensive training in clean room protocols and maintenance of advanced semiconductor manufacturing equipment. To facilitate this training process, TSMC has established a Registered Technician Apprenticeship program in collaboration with local community colleges. This apprenticeship is designed for high school graduates aspiring to enter the semiconductor field. Participants receive two to five years of paid, on-the-job training, during which they can earn stackable credentials to advance their careers.

In alignment with industry trends, a report from McKinsey & Co. indicates that about 60% of new jobs in the semiconductor sector are projected to not require a bachelor’s degree, a shift that highlights the growing importance of accessible job opportunities in this field. The semiconductor industry is facing an estimated shortfall of 67,000 skilled workers over the next several years, emphasizing the critical need for training programs and initiatives that develop talent within the community.

TSMC’s Arizona operations have already seen significant advancements, with its first fabrication plant becoming operational last year. This launch has coincided with the company’s increased hiring efforts and aggressive expansion plans. Future hires may include numerous technician apprentices and recent high school graduates eager to start their careers in the semiconductor sector.

The apprenticeship program allows participants to work full-time while they also attend community college classes, which provide theoretical and practical knowledge to complement their job training. TSMC’s partnerships with educational institutions such as Arizona State University and Estrella Mountain Community College are crucial for establishing a robust talent pipeline for the future workforce.

TSMC’s hiring efforts are further supported by local government initiatives through the City of Phoenix and various workforce development organizations, all aimed at enhancing job creation and skill development in the rapidly growing semiconductor industry.

With the demand for skilled labor in the semiconductor sector expected to soar, TSMC’s commitment to investing in local talent is a significant step towards addressing this need while providing valuable job opportunities for residents in Phoenix.

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