Building the workforce that powers the semiconductor industry 

This is a historic moment of growth for the semiconductor industry. Chips are essential to everything from smartphones and vehicles to AI data centers – nearly anything with an on/off switch. But with this opportunity comes a challenge: building a sustainable talent pipeline of engineers, technicians and countless other roles that will support the industry’s seismic growth.  

Experts predict the need for one million additional workers by 2030, and at GlobalFoundries, we see this as a continued reminder of the importance of investing in our people, inspiring the next generation of innovators and strengthening the talent that drives our success. Our ability to deliver differentiated technology and reliable manufacturing begins with the exceptional teams we build today. 

Nurturing our amazing workforce 

Our more than 13,000 employees across the United States, Europe and Asia are the foundation of our success, working day to day to deliver incredible innovations. Every advancement we achieve with our customers is the result of their dedication, expertise and vision. 

To remain a destination for top talent in a competitive market, we’ve adopted a people-first strategy that removes barriers to career growth. A centerpiece of this effort is the Student Loan Repayment Program, the first of its kind in the semiconductor industry. U.S.-based employees can receive up to $28,500 in tax-free assistance to pay down student debt. In its first year, more than 300 employees enrolled, and GF has already contributed over $180,000 toward their loans. Participants have shared that the program has given them the freedom to focus on advancing their careers and building their futures without the weight of long-term debt. 

As our very own Morgan Woods told the Associated Press: “The fact that I’m now ahead of where I thought I would be a little over a year ago is very nice to see.” Through the program, she now expects to pay off her loans four years earlier.  

Building talent further & future talent 

Addressing the talent gap requires expanding the pipeline of skilled professionals. That’s why we’ve partnered with educational institutions to create career pathways and hands-on training opportunities that prepare the next generation of semiconductor leaders. 

One example of GF’s commitment to invest $1 million in Hudson Valley Community College to enhance workforce training and apprenticeship programs. Our team also leads the industry with the first U.S. Registered Apprenticeship Program, which provides opportunities for individuals with no prior experience or training in the semiconductor industry, offering full-time paid positions and cost-free college courses to high school graduates. These programs create access for people from diverse backgrounds while strengthening the overall talent ecosystem for semiconductors. 

Integrating specialized expertise 

Developing talent internally is only part of the equation. GF also brings in highly specialized skills through strategic acquisitions. This strategy includes GF’s acquisition of MIPS, a leader in AI and processor IP. Combining MIPS’ decades of design and IP innovation with GF’s world-class manufacturing capabilities will enhance our ability to meet the growing needs of AI and edge computing customers. 

As part of GF’s digital transformation to drive enterprise AI adoption, our engineers are advancing their capabilities in data-driven environments and stepping into smart manufacturing leadership roles. Through strategic partnerships with academia, solution providers and government agencies, we are co-developing future-ready solutions and building a strong talent pipeline. For example, our MOU with A*STAR to strengthen advanced packaging capabilities in Singapore includes employee upskilling and the creation of expert-level roles—laying the foundation for future growth. 

Investing in people everywhere to drive global industry growth anywhere 

GF’s geographically diverse presence across the United States, Europe and Asia also positions the company to adapt to regional labor markets and attract talent where it is most critical. This global approach provides both workforce flexibility and supply chain resilience, supporting customers in key markets around the world. 

The semiconductor talent shortage is one of the most significant challenges the industry faces, but it is also a call to action. GF is committed to fostering an environment where employees can grow, advance and contribute to the innovations that will define the future of technology, no matter where they, or our customers, are based. By investing in workforce programs, education partnerships and specialized expertise, GF is building the foundation for sustainable industry growth in the years ahead.