Two events occurred this week which continue the propulsion of the Grand Canyon State in becoming a national technological hub for the future.
The first event was the opening of a new seven billion dollar facility for semiconductor developer Amkor in Peoria.
In remarks at the opening, Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs commented:
“This is a big day and a proud day for our state. Arizona is leading America’s semiconductor resurgence, and once again we are proving why. Amkor is a vital part of that story and today, the Arizona-based company is doubling down on its investments in our state and in our people…”
“…It’s no coincidence that this expansion comes as Arizona continues to establish itself as the American semiconductor manufacturing hub that will lead our nation into the future…”
“…Amkor’s new, now $7 billion semiconductor packaging facility here in Peoria takes our semiconductor industry to the next level.
● Will be the largest outsourced packaging plant in North America.
● Expected to bring 3K jobs to Peoria and enable us to test and package more chips.
● Support critical technologies putting Arizona on the
leading edge of the AI revolution.
● Will spur investment and development in West
Valley.”
“In these moments, it’s important we take a step back and recognize the big picture:
● Not just a win for Arizona, it’s a win for America.
- Advances national security.
- Drives innovation and technology.
- Not just beneficial for business, beneficial for families too.
- Generational careers.
- Family sustaining jobs.
- Puts Peoria on the map.
- Delivers on the Arizona Promise.
- Opportunity, security, and freedom for all…”
Later on social media, the Governor’s team posted:
Arizona Representative Greg Stanton also commented on the Amkor Event, posting:
Senator Mark Kelly offered:
Another event that reinforces Arizona’s rise as a technological Mecca for the Southwest and the country was the Semicon West Conference being held in Phoenix from October 7 to October 9.
According to Phoenix Business Journal, it is the first Semicon West Conference outside the Bay Area in 55 years.
Both Governor Hobbs and Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego attended.
In her remarks at the conference, Governor Hobbs said:
“…We hope this is the first of many SEMICON Wests to come in Arizona…The spirit of Arizona has long been one of forging new frontiers. For generations, people have come here to build, to grow, and to blaze new trails. That same mindset drives our economy today, where our roots continue to drive innovation. In Arizona, vision becomes opportunity—and opportunity becomes action. No other state is as uniquely positioned—or as prepared—to meet this moment…”
“…The semiconductor industry is experiencing a renaissance in Arizona – unlike anywhere else.
From leading edge manufacturing to R&D, equipment, suppliers, workforce development and advanced packaging, it’s all happening here…”
“…As Arizona’s Governor, I give you my commitment: no state will do more to support your success. The benefits this industry has brought to our state – tens of thousands of family sustaining-jobs, revitalizing our economy, strengthening education – are undeniable. I have a duty to ensure every Arizonan has the opportunity, security, and freedom they need to thrive, and the semiconductor industry will help make that happen…”
“…Together, we’ve:
● Rolled out new industry-led apprenticeships and workforce programs,
● Made transformative investments in university infrastructure and R&D,
● Launched first-of-their-kind training accelerators at community colleges,
● And helped shape a national economic roadmap for the semiconductor industry…”
“…Thank you so much for being here, for showing up with energy, with drive, and with a vision for the future. You are the driving force behind Arizona’s momentum. Through close alignment and a shared commitment to innovation, we stand ready to accelerate the breakthroughs of tomorrow—and support your long-term success every step of the way.”
Later on social media, the Governor and her team posted:
Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego also delivered remarks at the conference.
Afterward, the Mayor relayed the below statement to Blog for Arizona:
“Phoenix has prioritized international engagement, cultivating ties with partners in Taiwan, Japan, Europe, and beyond to strengthen supply chains and trade opportunities. That success is part of the reason we are hosting SEMICON West for the first time, attracting it to move outside Silicon Valley and a true reflection of Phoenix’s rising global profile. We have much to showcase with global visitors this week, including a skilled workforce, strong infrastructure, and a commitment to sustainability. Phoenix is a premier destination for international investment that ensures long-term economic resilience.”
In an interview with the Phoenix Business Journal, Mayor Gallego responded to a question on having the magnitude of the Semicon West Conference in Phoenix, saying:
“It represents recognition that we’re a global leader in cutting-edge technology and semiconductors. We’ve had so many incredible announcements of companies growing in the Valley or coming to the Valley. This event lets us celebrate that we are now a global leader, and it lets us show that leadership to both our residents and the global semiconductor community.”
Earlier in the article, she indicated that “the economic impact of SEMICON West is expected to exceed more than $80 million and will likely generate new semiconductor-related investments and growth opportunities for Arizona companies.”
She also said:
“This is valuable for everyone who lives in Phoenix, even if you don’t work directly with this industry. When we have investments like TSMC’s $165 billion investment, it means new revenue to our city that helps support key programs — from our firefighters to our park system,” she said. “This economic activity is growing the pie of available resources in Phoenix in a way that benefits all of our residents.”
On social media, she released two posts about the conference.
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