KISSIMMEE, Fla. – Plug and Play, a company that connects startups with industry and government leaders and investors, is one of many high-tech companies that see Central Florida as a leader in innovation.

They picked NeoCity in Osceola County because of its push to become a semiconductor hub for Florida and the country.

Semiconductor chips are found in almost every electronic device and are used in many industries, from healthcare to the automotive sector.

In recent years there has been a major shortage, and many are manufactured in China and Taiwan.

Florida’s Commerce Secretary J. Alex Cole said NeoCity is transforming Osceola County into the innovation capital of the state, and that means not only higher-paying tech jobs, but opportunities for people to make quick career changes.

“Valencia College’s semiconductor and robotics program, the average participant in that program is 30 years old, high school diploma, no other education,” Cole said. “They are actually trying to leave another job and try to elevate their family, their circumstances, and they are able to, in 22 weeks, get a job that’s paying $60,000 to 65,000 a year in the semiconductor industry.”

Cole says growing the research, training and manufacturing facilities here are the key to raising the standard of living for residents.

Plug and Play’s event drew industry leaders from across the country who see Neo City poised to become a world-class leader in the multi-trillion-dollar tech industry.

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