Feb 05 2021: Why is there a chip shortage for computers and cars?

Back in Feb 05 2021: Why is there a chip shortage for computers and cars?

The global chip shortage continues to impact various industries, including the automotive and technology sectors. Toyota has announced that its global vehicle production will be reduced by 40% in September 2021 due to the shortage.

Samsung and Qualcomm are also struggling to meet demand for memory chips and processors, respectively. The COVID-19 pandemic has contributed to the shortage, with increased demand for consumer electronics and the rollout of 5G infrastructure further exacerbating the issue. The long lead time for building new chip manufacturing plants adds to the challenges.

Fast forward to Aug 05 2023: America is building chip factories. Now to find the workers

As the US invests heavily in semiconductor plants and aims to revive its manufacturing sector, a major challenge lies in finding enough skilled workers to operate these new factories. The semiconductor sector, in particular, is facing a shortage of technicians, scientists, and engineers. The US government has passed the CHIPS Act, allocating $50 billion to address this issue, but the estimated shortage is still significant.

Companies like Taiwanese Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) are already struggling to find workers and have had to postpone production. Collaborative efforts between government, companies, colleges, and students are being developed to address the workforce gap.

Can America's chipmaking industry overcome the challenge of finding enough skilled workers to operate the new semiconductor factories being built?