Governor Greg Abbott has announced that Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU) will receive a $1.98 million grant from the Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund (TSIF). The grant will support a workforce development initiative at PVAMU, which is part of The Texas A&M University System, aimed at advancing 3D Heterogeneous Integration (3DHI) microelectronics through specialized training programs.
“Texas is investing in the workforce of tomorrow today,” said Governor Abbott. “Prairie View A&M University, the second-oldest public higher education institution in Texas, has built an unparalleled reputation for empowering scholars. This specialized workforce training program will further Texas’ leadership in cutting-edge microelectronics, enhance national security by strengthening domestic semiconductor manufacturing, and expand the path to better jobs and bigger paycheck opportunities for Texans for years to come.”
The 3DHI technology allows separately manufactured chips or wafers made from different materials to be stacked within a single package. This method can lead to significant improvements in performance and functionality.
The Roy G. Perry College of Engineering at PVAMU, recognized as a Historically Black College and University (HBCU), is leading this initiative with the Texas A&M Semiconductor Institute and partnering with the Next-Generation Microelectronics Manufacturing (NGMM) program. The collaboration aims to provide training in areas such as 3DHI process capabilities, Electronic Design Automation (EDA), digital twins, and 3DHI microsystems. The goal is to prepare students for careers in high-tech fields related to microelectronics.
“I want to thank Governor Abbott for investing in Texas’ semiconductor workforce and providing a strong vision to maintain our state’s dominance in this critical sector,” said Texas A&M University System Chancellor Glenn Hegar. “Prairie View A&M University is preparing students for the most complex and in-demand jobs in the industry. This grant is an investment not only in Texas’ economic future, but also in the men and women whose skills will keep our state at the forefront of innovation for decades to come.”
“Texas is a global leader in developing innovative technology, and Prairie View A&M is at the forefront of that effort,” said Senator Lois W. Kolkhorst. “This important fund will help Prairie View A&M continue to create a highly educated workforce that is building a bridge to the future.”
Governor Abbott signed the Texas CHIPS Act into law in 2023, establishing TSIF as well as the Texas Semiconductor Innovation Consortium (TSIC). These initiatives are managed by the Texas CHIPS Office, which operates under his administration’s Texas Economic Development & Tourism Office. These efforts are designed to encourage growth within Texas’ semiconductor industry by supporting research, design, manufacturing expansion, and expertise development among state institutions.
The Office of Texas Governor Greg Abbott plays a key role within the executive branch of state government since Greg Abbott was elected governor in 2014. Under his leadership, Texas has seen job growth and record employment levels while focusing on economic opportunity and education enhancement statewide.
