Intel to invest €80 billion in the European Union over the next decade along its semiconductor value chain.

Commenting on today’s announcement by Intel that it is to significantly increase its chip production capacity in Europe, Professor Orla Feely, President of Engineers Ireland, said: “Intel has long been a supporter of Ireland, and we very much welcome Intel’s announcement that it will invest a further €12 billion between now and the end of next year on completing its ‘Fab 34’ plant in Leixlip, Co. Kildare. Intel has played a critical role in Ireland for more than 30 years - or around a third of the lifetime of the state. We also welcome the decision by Intel to build further cutting-edge manufacturing capacity in Europe to help avoid future computer-chip supply shortages.

“Innovative programmes such as Intel’s bring together researchers from higher education institutions with industry to enhance R&D capability nationally and attract global R&D investment. 

“Intel has supported Irish women at the top table, such as Executive Vice President Ann Kelleher and Engineering Factory Manager and Vice President Ann-Marie Holmes. Women make up around 23% of engineering graduates in Ireland, but we need greater representation in the sector. Therefore, Intel’s Chief Executive was right to point out last September that we need more female engineers in Ireland.

“The fact remains that women are not represented in the engineering profession at the level we would want in order to maximise our talent pipeline. It is also vital to cultivate and champion the many aspects of diversity that go beyond gender. We look forward to working with Intel to achieve this.

“The Inclusion and Diversity Society, a sector within Engineers Ireland, hopes to create an environment in which people are valued, feel valued, and are able to achieve and contribute their full potential.”

For more information, see: https://www.intc.com/news-events/press-releases/detail/1532/intel-announces-initial-investment-of-more-than-33