Executive Overview – The Status of the Microelectronics Industrial Base in the United States

The microelectronics industrial base in the United States faces significant challenges, including a large gap between the current and projected workforce needs. According to a report from the Bureau of Industry and Security, there will be a need for 70,000 new jobs by 2032, while currently there are only 200,000 employees in the industry. This gap is attributed to various factors, including the educational requirements for semiconductor employment, with 75% of employees holding positions that require a four-year degree.
To address this challenge, programs like SCALE aim to expand the talent pool and deepen it by promoting continual learning within companies. The report highlights the importance of increasing the ability of U.S. companies to hire and retain highly skilled non-U.S. citizens, enhancing pathways for citizenship through visa and immigration reform, and building more FABs to drive job creation and engagement with students. By investing in these initiatives, the United States can build a strong supply of U.S. workforce and ensure a sustainable career pathway for future generations.