Oregon legislators are considering an additional $30 million investment in workforce training for the semiconductor industry, a year after allocating over $500 million in subsidies and tax breaks for the sector. With computer chip manufacturing being one of Oregon’s largest industries, the state is aiming to capitalize on the federal push for increased domestic semiconductor production.
The previous funding allocation of $240 million from last year’s legislative appropriation supported 15 companies planning to expand their operations in Oregon. State economists predict that this growth will result in the creation of more than 6,000 jobs in the chip industry over the next few years.
Recognizing the need to train workers for this specialized field, House Bill 4154 proposes allocating $14.9 million to six public universities and community colleges for workforce training. An equal amount would be devoted to a “sustaining fund” aimed at nurturing the skills required in the semiconductor industry.
The industry had faced job losses in the past year, partially offsetting the surge in semiconductor demand during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, business leaders and industry advocates remain optimistic, viewing this dip as temporary, and have identified semiconductor workforce training as a top priority.
HB 4154 has garnered bipartisan support and 35 sponsors. Nevertheless, it faces competition from other bills for attention and funding during this year’s brief legislative session. Lawmakers have indicated the possibility of providing partial funding this year and revisiting the topic in 2025.
Oregon’s commitment to investing in workforce training demonstrates its determination to solidify its position as a prominent hub for the semiconductor industry. By equipping individuals with the necessary skills and expertise, the state aims to facilitate long-term growth and secure a thriving semiconductor ecosystem.
An FAQ section based on the main topics and information presented in the article:
Q: What is the proposed investment being considered by Oregon legislators?
A: Oregon legislators are considering an additional $30 million investment in workforce training for the semiconductor industry.
Q: How much funding was allocated to the semiconductor industry last year?
A: Last year, over $500 million in subsidies and tax breaks were allocated for the semiconductor industry in Oregon.
Q: How many jobs are predicted to be created in the chip industry in the coming years?
A: State economists predict that the growth supported by the previous funding allocation will result in the creation of more than 6,000 jobs in the chip industry over the next few years.
Q: What does House Bill 4154 propose?
A: House Bill 4154 proposes allocating $14.9 million to six public universities and community colleges for workforce training in the semiconductor industry. An equal amount would be devoted to a “sustaining fund” aimed at nurturing the required skills.
Q: Why is semiconductor workforce training seen as a top priority?
A: Despite job losses faced by the industry during the COVID-19 pandemic, business leaders and industry advocates remain optimistic and view the dip as temporary. Semiconductor workforce training is seen as a top priority to meet the increasing demand and ensure future growth.
Q: What is the status of HB 4154 in the legislative process?
A: HB 4154 has bipartisan support and 35 sponsors. However, it faces competition from other bills for attention and funding during this year’s legislative session. The possibility of providing partial funding this year and revisiting the topic in 2025 has also been indicated.
Q: What is Oregon’s commitment to workforce training indicating?
A: Oregon’s commitment to investing in workforce training demonstrates its determination to solidify its position as a prominent hub for the semiconductor industry. The state aims to facilitate long-term growth and secure a thriving semiconductor ecosystem by equipping individuals with the necessary skills and expertise.
Definitions for key terms or jargon:
– Semiconductor industry: The industry involved in the design, manufacturing, and distribution of semiconductor devices, such as computer chips.
– Workforce training: Programs and initiatives aimed at providing individuals with the skills and knowledge required for specific industries or job roles.
– Legislative appropriation: The allocation or provision of funds by a legislative body, such as a state or federal government.
Suggested related links:
– Oregon Legislature
– State of Oregon Official Website
The source of the article is from the blog enp.gr