California’s AMD, a high-performance semiconductor designer, will create 165 jobs in Monroe and Dutchess counties over the next couple of years. The move is viewed as another industry win for New York.
The company has established state-of-the-art research and design facilities at Linden Oaks Office Park. Both sites, which now are fully operational, will focus on the design and validation of mixed-signal integrated circuits and packaging for processors that are used in cloud computing, data centers, gaming and PCs, state officials say.
“AMD employees in Monroe and Dutchess County are focused on research and design efforts to develop next-generation, high-performance processors,” says Mark Papermaster, executive vice president and chief technology officer of AMD. “We are excited to expand our presence in the region, which is renowned for its top research universities and engineering talent, and to continue advancing leading-edge semiconductor innovation in the U.S.”
AMD processors are at the heart of devices and services across markets including cloud computing, enterprise, communications, health care, aerospace, automotive, gaming and PCs. Last year, the company generated a record $23.6 billion in revenue, a 44 percent increase over the previous year.
“The Finger Lakes is well on its way to cementing itself as a world-renowned hub of semiconductor technology,” says Assemblymember Jen Lunsford. “AMD’s decision to expand its footprint here in Linden Oaks is a testament to the quality of our talent pool, our regional, strategic partnerships, and the commitment of our state to bring these jobs to our community.”
For AMD’s expansion in New York, Empire State Development will provide up to $5 million in performance-based Excelsior Tax Credits in exchange for the statewide job-creation commitments. Starting with an initial investment of $3.3 million, the company expects to continue to further finance operations at both locations over the next several years, officials say. Greater Rochester Enterprise also offered critical assistance for this project.
“It is through incredible projects like this that we are further demonstrating New York’s continued commitment to fostering the growth of innovative semiconductor businesses,” Gov. Kathy Hochul says. “I am incredibly proud to support AMD’s forward-thinking investments in Monroe and Dutchess counties that are moving our communities forward and further cementing New York’s reputation as the national hub for high-technology research, development, design and manufacturing.”
Hochul has made growing the state’s semiconductor industry a top priority. In January she announced the creation of GO SEMI: the Governor’s Office of Semiconductor Expansion, Management, and Integration. GO SEMI, led by Empire State Development, is supported by experts from state agencies. The group intends to work with federal and local partners and oversee investments in the semiconductor industry.
A key goal: shaping and implementing a broader, national model for maximizing industry and community returns on such public/private partnerships, officials say.
Smriti Jacob is Rochester Beacon managing editor. The Beacon welcomes comments and letters from readers who adhere to our comment policy including use of their full, real name. Submissions to the Letters page should be sent to [email protected].