Applied Materials, one of the world’s largest semiconductor equipment providers, is doubling down on American manufacturing and Arizona is once again at the center of the story. The company announced it will invest more than $200 million in Chandler to build a new advanced manufacturing facility focused on producing critical components for the tools that enable chipmaking. The site will contribute to the company’s growing national footprint, which includes operations in Montana, Massachusetts and a major manufacturing campus in Austin.
Applied Materials CEO Gary Dickerson called the effort a milestone: “For nearly 60 years, Applied Materials has been driving transformative innovation in chip manufacturing and ensuring the building blocks of technology are produced in the United States. Strengthening America’s semiconductor leadership has never been more important than in today’s AI era.”
It is expected to create up to 200 jobs in Arizona across manufacturing, R&D and support services over the next five years. The move is the latest in a series of semiconductor announcements tied to Apple’s $600 billion U.S. investment commitment. Under its American Manufacturing Program, Apple is working with key partners to localize chip production and packaging, from working with Samsung and GlobalFoundries to launching advanced packaging operations with Amkor in Arizona.
“Applied Materials’ new advanced manufacturing facility will further bolster Arizona’s robust semiconductor ecosystem and strengthen U.S. supply chain resiliency,” says Sandra Watson, president and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority.
For Arizona, the momentum continues. From foundries to fabs to critical components, the state’s role in next-generation chipmaking is growing and Chandler’s newest addition signals it’s only gaining speed.
