POLICY SPOTLIGHT
CHIPS and Science Act Drives Workforce Investment
In an increasingly interconnected world, global competitiveness hinges on technological innovation and manufacturing prowess.
Written by Paul Fakes
The CHIPS and Science Act of 2022 continues to make headlines in the technology and industrial policy community. Hundreds of billions of dollars in private-sector investment have followed from the Act’s manufacturing and research investments and a surge of interest in semiconductor supported applications such as artificial intelligence.
As the demand for advanced semiconductor products continues to grow, however, the significance of the need to invest in our mechanical engineering research enterprise and broader semiconductor workforce has become a key focus for policymakers implementing the legislation. Many see it as a generational opportunity to drive new investments in U.S. mechanical engineering research and workforce infrastructure.
Here are four areas to keep an eye on to assess the impact of the CHIPS and Science Act.
Engineering research challenges in semiconductor manufacturing. Semiconductor fabrication processes are complex, requiring meticulous precision and innovation at every stage. From design to production, mechanical engineers play a crucial role in overcoming various challenges encountered in semiconductor manufacturing. Fundamental issues such as thermal management, materials selection, and process optimization necessitate investment in broad-based engineering research and workforce development and the CHIPS and Science Act recognizes this challenge.
The need for basic research. At the heart of semiconductor manufacturing lie fundamental engineering principles that demand exploration through basic research. Understanding the behavior of materials at nanoscale dimensions, modeling fabrication processes, and developing novel manufacturing techniques all constitute areas ripe for fundamental investigation. By allocating resources towards basic research, the CHIPS and Science Act fosters a fertile ground for uncovering transformative insights that can revolutionize semiconductor manufacturing. This funding will work double-duty by also supporting the development of the advanced engineering workforce necessary for semiconductor manufacturing.
Applied research. While basic research lays the foundation, applied research endeavors bridge the gap between theory and practice, driving tangible innovation in semiconductor manufacturing. Advanced simulation techniques, precision machining technologies, and automation systems are just a few examples of applied research domains vital to enhancing manufacturing efficiency and product quality. The CHIPS and Science Act’s emphasis on applied research initiatives empowers mechanical engineers to develop practical solutions to the real-world challenges encountered in semiconductor fabrication facilities.
Workforce development. Central to the success of any research endeavor is a skilled and knowledgeable workforce. The CHIPS and Science Act recognizes the need for cultivating a robust pipeline of mechanical engineering talent equipped to tackle the evolving demands of semiconductor manufacturing. Investment in education, training, and professional development programs authorized by the Act ensures that the U.S. maintains a competitive edge in nurturing the next generation of mechanical engineers adept at addressing the complexities of semiconductor production.
In an increasingly interconnected world, global competitiveness hinges on technological innovation and manufacturing prowess. The CHIPS and Science Act of 2022 presents an unparalleled opportunity for the United States to assert its leadership in semiconductor manufacturing. By strategically allocating resources towards advancing mechanical engineering research and workforce development, the nation can position itself at the forefront of technological innovation, fostering economic growth and prosperity.
The work is not over. While the CHIPS Act incentivized a new era of investment in U.S. semiconductor manufacturing, the long-term research and workforce allocations it authorized still require annual action and support from Congress. By recognizing the pivotal role of mechanical engineering in addressing the fundamental challenges of semiconductor manufacturing, the Act lays the groundwork for fostering innovation, driving economic growth, and maintaining global competitiveness. By maintaining our focus on building a long-term competitive science and technology workforce, we can continue shape to shape the global technological landscape for the benefit of all humanity.
Paul Fakes is Director of Government Relations in ASME’s Washington office.
© 2024 The American Society of Mechanical Engineers. All rights reserved.