Episode 3 of The Chip Frontier: Florida’s Semiconductor Edge is here!
Posted on: October 29, 2025
Betting on Florida. The Sunshine State is stepping into the spotlight as a rising force in semiconductor innovation, with specialty advanced packaging at the center of it all. As chipsets get smaller and more powerful, the ability to stitch them together into cutting-edge hardware is a game-changer. And Florida, the sleeping giant, is waking up.
In Episode 3, The Investment: Funding Promising Technologies, we dive into the mission of the NSF Florida Semiconductor Engine, a statewide coalition uniting microelectronic companies, universities, and local leaders to onshore specialty advanced packaging and strengthen the U.S. tech edge.
Driving this momentum is the National Science Foundation (NSF), whose support of regional innovation hubs like Florida could be transformational. For 75 years, NSF has funded scientific breakthroughs that shape the nation’s economy and global competitiveness. Now, it’s placing bold bets on technologies, like semiconductors.
Subscribe and listen now to hear insights from voices behind the Engine’s work and NSF’s strategic vision:
Matt Walsh
As Chief Engineer of the NSF Florida Semiconductor Engine, Matt Walsh leads the technical strategy for the Florida Semiconductor Engine, focusing on building advanced packaging capabilities and coordinating efforts across industry and academia to accelerate innovation and commercialization.
Dr. Erwin Gianchandani
Dr. Erwin Gianchandani serves as the Assistant Director for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships (TIP) at the National Science Foundation (NSF) leading the TIP Directorate, which supports use-inspired research and the translation of discoveries into practical technologies. He has worked at NSF since 2012, and he plays a central role in identifying and funding emerging areas of national importance, including semiconductors. He holds a bachelor’s degree in computer science and a master’s degree in biomedical engineering from the University of Virginia.
Jessica Fields
As the Program Director for the National Science Foundation, Jessica Fields manages NSF programs that support regional innovation engines and academic partnerships. Her work helps connect federal investment to local ecosystems, enabling impact and workforce development. She graduated from Webster University with a bachelor’s degree in anthropology & psychology.