SMU Selected to Lead One of 31 Federal Technology Hubs
SMU was tapped to lead one of 31 technology hubs across the country with a focus on expanding and fostering innovation in the semiconductor supply chain in 29 counties in Texas and Oklahoma through regional collaboration and workforce development.
It’s part of the first phase of the Tech Hubs program announced by the White House and U.S. Department of Commerce and authorized by the CHIPS and Science Act, signed into law in August 2022.
President Joe Biden told reporters Oct. 23 that the U.S. dropped from once producing 40% of the world’s chips to just over 10%.
“We’re going to invest in critical technologies, like biotechnology, critical minerals, quantum computing, and advanced manufacturing, so the U.S. will lead the world again in innovation across the board,” Biden said.
“Our Tech Hubs Program is fundamental to that mission and will supercharge innovation across the nation by spurring cutting-edge technological investments and creating 21st-century job opportunities in people’s backyards,” U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo said. “Each of these consortia will help us ensure the industries of the future — and their good-paying jobs — start, grow, and remain in the United States.”
Led by SMU, the 41-member Texoma Semiconductor Innovation Consortium (TSIC) is eligible to compete to receive up to $75 million in funding.
“We know how important the semiconductor industry is to the economic health of our country,” SMU Provost Elizabeth G. Loboa said. “And workforce development is key to our region’s progress. SMU is thrilled to support both of these critical initiatives through our leadership of the Texoma Semiconductor Tech Hub. This is going to provide jobs and move our country forward.”
“This historic award is a game changer, not only for SMU but also for the entire region,” added SMU Vice Provost for Research and Chief Innovation Officer Suku Nair. “SMU is ready to lead this revolutionary technology effort.”
The Tech Hub consortium was organized by Jennifer Dworak, Scott Douglas, and J.-C. Chiao, professors in the SMU Lyle School’s Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering.
