The recent investment by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) in Arizona carries significant implications for Arizona State University (ASU), the U.S. defense industrial base, and the nation. This $100 billion-dollar investment is a major economic boost, strengthening America’s technological leadership, national security, and workforce development. A key component of this investment is TSMC’s strategic partnership with ASU, which will help develop the next generation of semiconductor talent and innovation.

Impact on Arizona State University (ASU)

TSMC’s presence in Arizona creates major opportunities for ASU, one of the nation’s top engineering and technology research institutions. The university stands to benefit from increased research collaboration, as TSMC has formed a strategic partnership with ASU to advance semiconductor research, workforce training, and innovation. Through this collaboration, ASU will work with TSMC on cutting-edge research in chip design, nanotechnology, and semiconductor manufacturing, further cementing the university’s reputation as a leader in technology and engineering.

Additionally, the investment fuels a demand for skilled engineers, providing ASU graduates with high-paying jobs in chip manufacturing, design, and related fields. The partnership also includes curriculum development, specialized training programs, and internship opportunities, ensuring that ASU students are equipped with the technical expertise needed in this critical industry. With TSMC in Arizona, ASU is poised to drive innovation in semiconductor technology, fostering an ecosystem of startups and tech companies that will further cement Arizona as a semiconductor hub.

Impact on the U.S. Defense Industrial Base 

For industry, as well as for U.S. military and defense contractors, TSMC’s investment is crucial in securing a reliable domestic supply of advanced semiconductors. Many critical defense systems—ranging from AI-driven warfare technologies to advanced fighter jets and missile defense systems—depend on cutting-edge chips.

Another key advantage is that it enhances cybersecurity and strengthens supply chain integrity. By producing advanced semiconductors domestically, the U.S. can mitigate risks related to supply chain vulnerabilities, potential tampering, and cybersecurity threats from adversaries like China. This investment directly supports major defense contractors, ensuring they have a secure, high-quality semiconductor supply for national security applications.

ASU’s partnership with TSMC also plays a role in bolstering national security efforts. By training engineers and researchers in semiconductor technology, ASU contributes to a pipeline of skilled professionals who can work on defense-related semiconductor applications. This partnership ensures that both commercial and defense industries have access to the latest semiconductor advancements, reinforcing America’s technological edge in military and security sectors.

Impact on the Nation

At the national level, TSMC’s $40 billion investment is one of the largest foreign direct investments in U.S. history, bringing economic growth, job creation, and supply chain resilience. Thousands of jobs—both in construction and high-tech manufacturing—will be created, boosting local and national economies. More importantly, the U.S. currently relies heavily on Taiwan for semiconductor production, a dependence that poses a major risk given China’s increasing aggression toward the island. With TSMC producing chips in Arizona, America strengthens its self-sufficiency in semiconductor manufacturing, reducing its reliance on foreign supply chains.

This move also aligns with the CHIPS and Science Act, which provides federal funding to revitalize the U.S. semiconductor industry. By securing advanced chip production domestically, the U.S. fortifies its economic and technological leadership, ensuring that American industries—ranging from defense to consumer electronics—are not left vulnerable to supply chain disruptions or foreign geopolitical maneuvering. The ASU-TSMC partnership further enhances this effort by developing a highly skilled workforce, positioning the U.S. to lead in chip innovation, fabrication, and research.

Conclusion

TSMC’s investment in Arizona represents a strategic advantage for ASU, the defense industrial base, and the entire nation. Through its partnership with ASU, TSMC is cultivating a next-generation workforce, advancing research, and strengthening America’s position in the global semiconductor race. This investment fosters innovation, secures the semiconductor supply chain for critical defense and economic sectors. It ensures that the U.S. remains a global leader in semiconductor technology. As the competition for chip dominance intensifies, this collaboration between TSMC, ASU, and the U.S. government reinforces national security, economic resilience, and technological superiority of the U.S. and Taiwan. We support this huge effort. Thank you, Dr. Chang (founder of TSMC ), Mr. Wei, and TSMC!

To learn more about Dr. Morris Chang, Ph.D., read this New York Times article (2003) and watch this recent interview (Jan 27, 2025). He is 93 years young.

Fork ‘Em, TSMC & ASU!

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