The Semiconductor Workforce in the Southeast

The semiconductor industry in the southeastern United States is a growing and vital part of the national value chain. While manufacturing jobs are still developing, the region is a powerhouse for upstream research and development (R&D) and downstream manufacturing industries.

• 38,680 Jobs
  • The nine states in the study area supported 38,680 jobs in semiconductor and electronic components manufacturing in 2023, representing 10% of the national total.
• 265,000+ Jobs
  • When including the total ecosystem—comprising upstream and downstream manufacturing industries—the region employs nearly 265,000 people, with an additional 136,000 in R&D.
• R&D Strength
  • States like North Carolina and Virginia have a high concentration of R&D jobs, while other states have strengths in related manufacturing sectors like electrical equipment.

North Carolina: A Hub for Innovation

North Carolina is a key player in the semiconductor ecosystem, with a strong foundation in R&D and a growing workforce pipeline.

• Workforce Projections
  • The state’s workforce is projected to continue growing as the number of degrees and certificates from higher education institutions increases. However, the report highlights the need for new entrants to grow faster over the next five years to address the increasing rate of retirement among senior engineers and technicians.
• Education Pipeline
  • The state has a strong talent pipeline at the bachelor’s and master’s levels, particularly from institutions like NC State University. The report also suggests opportunities to strengthen technician pathways through community college certificate and associate degree programs.

Ecosystem Assets

• Patenting
  • Between 2018 and 2024, North Carolina had 567 university-assigned patents and 4,131 industry-assigned patents related to semiconductors. This is a testament to the state’s innovation and research prowess.
• Venture Capital
  • North Carolina ranks as the 6th state nationally for total venture capital funding in the semiconductor sector between 2015 and 2024, with 44 deals and a total value of $384 million. The report highlights several top companies in the region, including Phononic and X Display.

The Road Ahead

To further strengthen the semiconductor ecosystem, the report recommends key actions, including bolstering workforce certification training at community colleges, aligning funding models with workforce needs, and expanding outreach to primary and secondary schools to raise awareness of career paths in the industry.