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Global Foundries CEO wants help for growth
Posted at: 05/25/2012 5:50 PM
| Updated at: 05/25/2012 6:22 PM
By: Beth Wurtmann
MALTA - "Advanced manufacturing will be the key driver of the economy on the future," Ajit Manocha told a panel of semiconductor industry and state leaders Friday.
The California-based chip company CEO said he's optimistic about the future, but that the key to growing high tech manufacturing, is to stay competitive.
"Make sure that we do not fumble. We cannot afford to fumble. We must show the successes and that will be inspiring other businesses to come here. I'm very confident about that," Manocha said.
He made the remarks after a panel with leaders from government, education and the computer chip industry. Capping off the annual meeting of the World Semiconductor council.
One of Governor Cuomo's top economic advisors said it is an honor for the region.
'It could have chosen anywhere in the United States of America. To have CEO's from six countries from around the globe. It chose New York and it chose specifically the Capital Region to host," said Leecia Eve, Deputy Secretary for Economic Development.
The 4.6-billion-dollar chip plant started production in December, creating 1300 jobs. With several hundred more jobs expected when it's up to full production, Manocha said he needs more infrastructure, faster.
"Primary and backup sources for power, water, sewer, roads and of course education system and so on. we need to work on all those areas started here and cannot stop, cannot slow down," he said."I'm not disappointed but I'd like to see more speed in infrastructure support. So far so good."
He's also concerned that there will be enough highly skilled workers in the pipeline in order to keep expanding with another Fab.
"If we're woefully under-producing engineers and scientists we need to address that. We need to address trades because we need people to build and manufacture so from trade to PhD's there's a need to connect," said Rep. Paul Tonko.
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