This public-private consortium aims to support research and development in advanced computer chips, as part of the CHIPS and Science Act funded by the 2022 law.

The announcement was made during a gathering of key stakeholders in the chips industry on the White House campus. The meeting aimed to prioritize research and worker training for an industry that is expected to expand due to government backing. The COVID-19 pandemic revealed the risks of relying heavily on Taiwan for advanced chips, highlighting the need for domestic capabilities. Additionally, the growing demand for more innovative chips driven by artificial intelligence further justifies the urgency to invest in this sector.

During the meeting, Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo emphasized the importance of this investment, stating, "This is an inflection point in the industry. Not just because we're dangerously dependent on one country for so many of our chips, but because AI is going to lead to an explosion of demand for chips, for sophisticated chips, more energy-efficient chips, cost-effective chips."

The National Semiconductor Technology Center will play a vital role in funding the design and prototyping of new chips, as well as training workers to meet the industry's demands. Companies have expressed the need for a skilled workforce to fully capitalize on the additional $39 billion provided by the government to fund new and expanded computer chip plants. Secretary Raimondo indicated that funding announcements for companies can be expected over the next six to 12 weeks.

Currently, about 375,000 people are employed in the production of computer chips, according to Labor Department data. This investment is expected to drive the need for highly specialized workers in the industry, especially considering the average income of $82,830 for those employed in this sector.

The commitment of $5 billion to the National Semiconductor Technology Center marks a significant step towards revitalizing the computer chip sector within the United States. By investing in research, development, and training, the Biden administration aims to reduce dependence on foreign sources, ensure national security, and meet the growing demand for advanced chips in the era of artificial intelligence.