WASHINGTON, D.C. — A concerted effort is underway to position the Penn State-led Mid-Atlantic Semiconductor Hub (MASH) Digital Twin Institute (DTI) as the CHIPS Manufacturing USA Institute. This push, spearheaded by U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA), involves a bipartisan and bicameral group of lawmakers urging U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo to support this initiative. The aim is to fortify domestic semiconductor production and bolster the nation’s technological edge.
The MASH DTI seeks to capitalize on opportunities created by the CHIPS and Science Act, a landmark piece of legislation aimed at reducing U.S. dependence on foreign semiconductor manufacturing. Senator Casey highlighted the strategic importance of this move, emphasizing Pennsylvania’s historic contributions to manufacturing and technology. “We believe that, under Penn State’s leadership, MASH is in a strong position to successfully serve as the CHIPS Manufacturing USA institute,” he stated.
The CHIPS Manufacturing USA Institute focuses on digital twin technology, which allows for digital-based research and development, expediting innovation and reducing costs. The MASH proposal, if accepted, would establish the world’s first distributed semiconductor network. This network would span major institutions, including Penn State University, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and Arizona State University, among others.
In their letter, the lawmakers underscored the potential benefits of the MASH initiative, which promises to create job opportunities and foster innovation. The consortium includes a diverse array of stakeholders, from academic partners to industry leaders and national labs, poised to drive U.S. economic competitiveness in the semiconductor sector.
The CHIPS and Science Act, passed in 2022, represents a significant federal investment in the semiconductor supply chain, from initial research to final production. This Act aims to position the United States at the forefront of semiconductor technology, crucial for both national security and economic vitality.
In addition to Senator Casey, notable figures supporting the initiative include Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY-8), among others. Their advocacy reflects a growing recognition of the importance of semiconductor innovation for maintaining America’s competitive edge in the global market.
The MASH DTI proposal is not only a bid to enhance technological capabilities but also a strategic move to re-shore semiconductor manufacturing, ensuring the resilience and security of critical supply chains. As the United States seeks to lead in next-generation technology, the establishment of the MASH Digital Twin Institute as a CHIPS Manufacturing USA Institute could prove pivotal in shaping the future of the semiconductor industry.
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