The Semiconductor Industry—Model for Industry/University/Government Cooperation

Semiconductor companies have joined forces to address a variety of industry-wide problems. The first step was the formation of the Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA) in 1977 to work on common environmental issues. The Association worked closely with the federal government to resolve an adverse competitive situation vis à vis Japanese companies. In 1982, the SIA formed the Semiconductor Research Corporation with dual objectives of developing highly qualified technical personnel for employment in the industry and conducting a program of long-range, pre-competitive research and technology development. The program is carried out at a large number of universities, and is unique in its industry/university relations. Subsequently, in 1987, a corporation for conducting technology development, primarily by industry, SEMATECH, was formed. Finally, to guide the research funded by these two corporations, the SIA produced the Semiconductor Technology Roadmap, with the technical contributors coming from industry, academia and government. This comprehensive set of initiatives has resulted in excellent working relations with government and utilization of the university community, in addition to technology developed for the benefit of SIA members. This initiative can also serve as a model for other industries.