New York is becoming a new haven for semiconductor packaging, research and education. With $40 million going towards SUNY Polytechnic Institute in Utica, the way is paved toward a new industrial revolution.
Under Gov. Kathy Hochul’s administration, $20 million was invested in SUNY Polytechnic’s Semiconductor Processing to Packaging Research, Education, and Training Center; $4 million was received from an Empire State Development Grant; and an additional $15 million was invested in SUNY Poly’s College of Engineering.
“I’ve seen for myself all the amazing things happening at SUNY Poly,” State University of New York Chancellor John B. King Jr. said during a press conference. Hours prior, he had gone a tour of the campus and new Semiconductor Center with local and state officials.
“At the dawn of the Industrial Revolution, New York built itself into the nation’s economic powerhouse via innovation, industriousness, and through the superior manufacturing of everything from glass to cameras, tools, ships, and more,” King said. “Our state become a preeminent machine of prosperity, industry, and innovation.”
“Today, history is repeating itself.”
King applauded the investments from every level of government and the governor’s office, letting New York rise to the top of the semiconductor industry.
SUNY Poly officials said they are perfectly positioned to drive workforce training and degree attainment in the Mohawk Valley, as they are in a critically strategic location for the semiconductor industry’s growth. With companies like Wolfspeed, Danfoss, Micron, and Indium right around the corner, there will be a demand for semiconductor-related jobs. And with the global market for semiconductors expected to hit $1 trillion by 2030, New York is set and primed.
The center will provide theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience that will prepare students for the jobs of the future. The Center will allow for both silicon device processing and packaging.
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“SUNY’s research enterprise is a driving force in New York’s economy, and the workforce of tomorrow is training across the university system,” said King. “With this increased investment and new facility, SUNY Poly is well positioned to expand semiconductor research and training. We look forward to celebrating the opening of the Center with our students and faculty in the near future.”
The Center will have approximately 5,000 square feet of cleanroom space and the first floor will feature two classrooms seating 30 students along with office space for scientists, post-doctoral fellows, and students. The facility will train up to 150 traditional and non-traditional students annually. Initial packaging and semiconductor training programs are planned to begin in the first half of 2025, with the full complement of processing, packaging, and metrology equipment installed by early 2026.
“SUNY Polytechnic Institute is a leader in learning, research, and innovation and an important part of the Mohawk Valley and New York State,” State Senator Joseph Griffo, R-Rome, said. “The Semiconductor Processing and Packaging Research, Education and Training Center on the SUNY Poly campus will provide important workforce training opportunities for students and will enhance and support the existing semiconductor industry in the region.”
As part of SUNY Polytechnic Institute’s expanded training and educational opportunities, SUNY has partnered with a number of industry leaders including Wolfspeed, Danfoss, Micron, Indium, Marquardt Switches, Menlo Micro, and NoMIS Power. These partnerships complement the institution’s work with local and community organizations including NY CREATES, Working Solutions – the Workforce Development Board of Utica, Fulton Montgomery Community College, Mohawk Valley Community College, and Onondaga Community College.
“SUNY Poly is grateful for these investments by the state and for the continued support of Governor Hochul, Chancellor King, and our elected officials,” SUNY Poly President Winston Oluwole Soboyejo said. “The semiconductor industry is booming in New York State, and we will leverage these investments to establish cutting-edge facilities that are critical to workforce development and in meeting the demands of industry. Furthermore, we look forward to further collaboration with our partners to capitalize on the region’s unprecedented momentum and help elevate the lives of all people in the Mohawk Valley and across this wonderful State.”
