Welcome Remarks

The semiconductor industry stands at the forefront of global technology, fueling the digital
transformation across diverse sectors and serving as a cornerstone of every industry supporting our
economy, society, and national security. The development and commercialization of cutting-edge
semiconductor technology demands a fusion of expertise, resources, and vision. To support this,
70+ organizations are collaborating to create the SMART (Semiconductor Manufacturing and
Advanced Research with Twins) USA Digital Twin Institute, a pioneering consortium poised to
revolutionize the landscape of semiconductor innovation, commercialization, and workforce
development.
This talk reports on the genesis, objectives, and transformative capabilities of SMART USA to
reduce the time and cost for chip development and manufacturing; accelerate the adoption of
semiconductor innovation; increase access to semiconductor manufacturing training through
digital twins; and expand access to digital twin tools, solutions, and frameworks.
Established as a collaborative initiative among industry leaders, research institutions, and
academia, SMART USA embodies the essence of collective intelligence, aimed at fostering
innovation, mitigating risks, and accelerating time-to-market for semiconductor technologies. This
is led by SRC (Semiconductor Research Corporation) with endorsements from industry leaders
such as SEMI’s Ajit Manocha and SIA’s John Neuffer.
At the heart of SMART USA lies the concept of the digital twin—an intricate virtual replica of
physical semiconductor devices, processes, and systems and the integration of such. Leveraging
advanced modeling, simulation, and data analytics, the digital twin paradigm offers unprecedented
insights into the behavior, performance, reliability, and efficiency of semiconductor components
across the product lifecycle. By harnessing the power of digital twins, the consortium works to
streamline design optimization, enhance manufacturing efficiency, and ensure product quality and
reliability while building the workforce to support the ongoing research and manufacturing of such
technology.
Central to SMART USA’s mission is the seamless integration of diverse stakeholders, each
contributing their unique expertise and resources towards a common goal. From leading
semiconductor manufacturers and suppliers to cutting-edge research institutions, the consortium
fosters an ecosystem of collaboration, innovation, and knowledge exchange. Through shared
access to state-of-the-art facilities and simulation tools consortium members synergize efforts to
overcome technological barriers, address market demands, and unlock new frontiers of
semiconductor innovation.
Furthermore, SMART USA catalyzes technology commercialization, bridging the gap between R&D
breakthroughs and market adoption. By facilitating cross-ecosystem partnerships the consortium
empowers its members to navigate the complex landscape of product development and
commercialization. Through strategic alliances with venture capitalists, industry associations, and
government agencies, SMART USA accelerates the transition of innovative semiconductor
technologies from the lab to the marketplace.
As we stand on the precipice of a new era of semiconductor innovation SMART USA emerges as a
beacon of collaboration, ingenuity, and progress. Through its unwavering commitment to
excellence, inclusivity, and shared prosperity, the consortium paves the way for a future where
semiconductor technologies not only redefine industries but also enrich lives and empower
societies on a global scale. Join us on this transformative journey as we unlock the full potential of
digital twins to create and commercialize the technologies of tomorrow.