WASHINGTON – The Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA) today released the following statement from SIA President and CEO John Neuffer applauding semiconductor manufacturing incentives announced by the U.S. Department of Commerce and GlobalWafers. The incentives, which are part of the CHIPS and Science Act, will support the development of semiconductor wafer production in Texas and Missouri. The Commerce Department previously announced incentives for a range of companies and projects that will help strengthen the U.S. semiconductor supply chain.

“The important incentives announced today will help GlobalWafers bring more wafer production, jobs, and innovation to U.S. shores. The vast majority of silicon wafers are manufactured in East Asia, so expanding U.S. production in this sector will strengthen our supply chains. We congratulate GlobalWafers for this milestone investment and commend the U.S. Commerce Department for its continued work to effectively allocate CHIPS funds.”

The CHIPS Act’s manufacturing incentives have sparked substantial announced investments in the U.S. In fact, companies in the semiconductor ecosystem have announced more than 80 new projects across 25 U.S. states—totaling hundreds of billions of dollars in private investments—since the CHIPS Act was introduced. These announced projects will create more than 56,000 jobs in the semiconductor ecosystem and support hundreds of thousands of additional U.S. jobs throughout the U.S. economy.

An SIA-Boston Consulting Group report released in May projected the United States will triple its domestic semiconductor manufacturing capacity from 2022—when CHIPS was enacted—to 2032. The projected 203% growth is the largest projected percent increase in the world over that time. The report also projected America will capture over one-quarter (28%) of total global capital expenditures (capex) from 2024-2032, ranking second only to Taiwan (31%).

SÃO PAULO, BRAZIL – ROCKA Solutions today announced the continued expansion of its operations in Brazil. Having expanded into Brazil earlier this year with a location in São Paulo, the company is pleased to announce an upcoming second location in Manaus. This strategic growth marks a significant milestone as ROCKA Brazil experiences unprecedented growth, reinforcing the company's commitment to bringing more consumable manufacturing under the ROCKA brand into Brazil.

Having expanded into Brazil earlier this year, ROCKA Solutions is leveraging its extensive expertise and industry-leading solutions to deliver exceptional value and support to its Brazilian customers. The company's rapid growth in the region is a testament to the effectiveness of its innovative approach and high-quality product offerings.

"The continued expansion in Brazil is a key part of our global growth strategy," said Rodrigo Cacho, President & CEO at ROCKA. "Our new locations in São Paulo and Manaus will enable us to better serve our customers and meet the increasing demand for consumable manufacturing solutions in the region."

One of the key drivers behind ROCKA's success in Brazil is its highly skilled sales team, which boasts more than 120 years of combined experience in the Brazilian electronics manufacturing industry. This team of seasoned professionals brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to ROCKA's operations, ensuring that customers receive the highest level of service and support.

"With our experienced sales team and strategic new locations, ROCKA is well-positioned to become a leader in the Brazilian market," added [Spokesperson's Name]. "We are committed to supporting the growth and success of our customers by providing them with the best products and services available."

MORRISVILLE, NC – Juki America – EAS Division, a global leader in automated assembly products and systems, proudly announces the appointment of Sean McMillen as the new Regional Sales Manager for the Southwest Territory. Bringing over two decades of industry experience, McMillen will oversee sales operations across a key region from Southern California to Georgia, including strategic partnerships with DiversiTech (US Area), Quantum Systems, Southwest Systems, Production Automation, and Martec.

Sean McMillen, a seasoned professional in the electronics manufacturing industry, joins Juki from PAC Global, where he demonstrated a profound capability in enhancing sales strategies and nurturing significant customer relationships. His background as a Mechanical Engineer and an MBA in Operations complements his deep understanding of the SMT process and competitive strategies, making him an invaluable addition to the Juki team.

Gregory Lefebvre, National Sales Manager at Juki, expressed his enthusiasm about McMillen’s appointment, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome Sean to our team. His extensive experience and strategic insight are expected to bring dynamic leadership and foster significant growth in our Southwest operations. Sean’s appointment is a clear reflection of Juki’s commitment to leading the industry through innovation and enhanced customer relations.”

McMillen’s role will be pivotal in maintaining and expanding Juki’s presence in the region, ensuring that clients receive first-class service and support. He will be instrumental in driving new sales initiatives and enhancing the overall customer experience with Juki's advanced solutions.

For more information about Juki America – EAS Division, visit www.jukiamericas.com 

MURRIETA, CA – WittcoSales, a leading representative in the electronics manufacturing sector serving Southern California, Southern Nevada, Tijuana, Mexicali, and Baja California, is excited to announce the addition of Todd Smith to their dynamic team. Joining the seasoned father-son duo of Tom and Todd Wittmer, Todd Smith brings a diverse and robust portfolio of expertise to the WittcoSales family.

With a background spanning over three decades across various industries, including retail, hospitality, and event management, Todd Smith has a proven track record of delivering first-class service and driving customer success.

His previous roles include Regional Sales Manager at Sebastian International, high- end suit concierge at Nordstrom in Las Vegas, and supervisory positions at the renowned Bellagio Hotel and Casino.

Todd’s exceptional skills in sales management and customer relations were further honed through his entrepreneurial venture in the cleaning business and his involvement in the restaurant industry, organizing premium catering events. His diverse experience equips him with unique insights and a customer-centric approach to business, aligning perfectly with WittcoSales’ philosophy of exceeding customer expectations through personalized service and innovative solutions.

"Bringing Todd Smith into our team marks a significant step in our commitment to enhancing the scope and quality of our services," said Todd Wittmer, co-leader at WittcoSales. "His extensive experience in service-oriented roles across different sectors provides us with invaluable perspectives that will undoubtedly benefit our customers and principals alike."

Although new to the electronics industry, Todd Smith is eager to immerse himself in the field, leveraging extensive interactions and local internships to quickly become adept at understanding and meeting the specialized needs of WittcoSales’ clients.

WittcoSales is renowned for its dedication to solving complex customer challenges and fostering long- term relationships built on trust and mutual success. With the addition of Todd Smith, WittcoSales reaffirms its position as a leader in the electronics manufacturing industry, dedicated to innovation and quality.

For more information, visit www.wittcosales.com