Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. plans to triple its Phoenix campus over the next decade, positioning itself to become one of Arizona’s largest employers in a move that highlights both opportunities and challenges in America’s semiconductor resurgence.
TSMC’s first Phoenix fabrication plant began production last year with 3,000 workers. By the end of the decade, with its third fab operational, the company expects to employ 6,000 people, according to TSMC Arizona president Rose Castanares interviewed by Axios.
The expansion won’t stop there. Plans include three additional fabs, two advanced packaging facilities, and a research and development center, with similar employment growth projected through completion.
Despite its significance for U.S. semiconductor independence, the rapid scaling faces a critical obstacle: a shortage of qualified workers. The company has responded by partnering with Arizona State University for engineering talent and Maricopa Community Colleges for technician training.
Last year, TSMC launched an apprenticeship program allowing technicians to earn college certifications while working full-time. These “learn and earn” initiatives are central to TSMC’s hiring strategy, opening opportunities to those who can’t afford traditional education.
While TSMC chose Arizona partly due to customer demand, company leaders also see value in the American talent pipeline—if properly developed.
