Intel plans to pump $100 million into semiconductor education and research

Keyvan Esvarjani, Intel chief global operations officer, speaks at event March 17 announcing Intel’s plans to invest $100 million into semiconductor research and education. (Intel photo)

The first two Intel factories in Ohio are expected to create 3,000 high-tech jobs and 7,000 construction jobs

Intel Corp. plans to pump $100 million into semiconductor manufacturing education and research collaborations with colleges and tech educators nationwide over the next decade.

Half of that, $50 million, will go directly to Ohio higher education institutions.

An additional $50 million will be matched by $50 million from the U.S. National Science Foundation.

The education financing is part of the company’s move to invest more than $20 billion in two new chip factories in Ohio, according to a press release.

“Our goal is to bring these programs and opportunities to a variety of two-year and four-year colleges, universities and technical programs, because it is critical that we expand and diversify STEM education,” said Christy Pambianchi, Intel executive vice president and chief people officer.

Intel’s plans come during a national skills shortage – especially in tech.

The investments will also provide the company with well-trained employees.

Intel’s manufacturing investments will create 6,700 high-tech U.S. jobs, with 3,000 in Ohio. In New Mexico, Intel is expanding and will add 700 new employees.

“That is why Intel is investing in educational and research programs in Ohio and across the U.S. to address the technical challenges and workforce shortages in our industry,” said Keyvan Esfarjani, Intel executive vice president and chief global operations officer.

The first two Intel factories in Ohio are expected to create 3,000 high-tech jobs and 7,000 construction jobs, and to support tens of thousands of additional long-term jobs across a broad ecosystem of suppliers and partners. Intel’s investment in partnerships with educational institutions and NSF is one piece of the company’s efforts to build a skilled pipeline of talent and bolster research programs in the region and throughout the U.S.