ASU’s state-of-the-art research facilities are credited with helping to produce technological advances that have aided the rise of today’s semiconductor industry. ASU students are being prepared to contribute to future progress. Among them is Taylor Gowdy, a 2024 ASU graduate who earned her degree through the mechanical engineering systems program in The Polytechnic School, part of the Fulton Schools. Many courses Gowdy took provided hands-on, project-based learning, giving her experience that helped her to get hired by the Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company’s Arizona operations, where she works as an equipment engineer. ASU’s many world-class researchers have been a key factor in drawing the thriving company to the Phoenix area, says Zak Holman, Fulton Schools vice dean for research and innovation. The booming semiconductor sector is now expected to produce more jobs and economic benefits extending beyond the tech manufacturing industry.