American technology company Intel has announced that construction has begun on a $20bn semiconductor plant measuring nearly 1,000 acres in Licking County, outside of Columbus in central Ohio.
The project, which will contain two chip factories to meet demand for advanced semiconductors, is the largest private-sector investment in the state’s history.
The site may eventually accommodate eight factories as well as their ecosystem partners.
Intel says that 7,000 construction jobs will be created and once operational, 3,000 long-term manufacturing and engineering roles will be supported.
Intel has also allocated $18m to eight projects from Ohio institutions to create semiconductor-focused education and workforce programmes.
Pat Gelsinger, Intel’s chief executive, said: “Today marks a pivotal moment in the journey to build a more geographically balanced and resilient semiconductor supply chain.
“The establishment of the Silicon Heartland is testament to the power of government incentives to unlock private investment, create thousands of high-paying jobs, and benefit US economic and national security.”
Manufacturing on the site may begin in 2025.
