Great Lakes Wire

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has urged Michigan to unite in an effort to establish a semiconductor chip assembly plant, also known as a fab, by the end of 2026. During her speech at the GM Mobility Research Center at Kettering University in Flint, Whitmer described this as an "ambitious but attainable goal," though she did not elaborate on what "work together" entails or specify the company involved.

Whitmer emphasized the transformative potential of such a facility, calling it a "once-in-a-century investment" that could turn the region into an economic hub. She stated, “We’re not going to beat China by sitting on the sidelines.”

In her address, part of her "Road Ahead" series, Whitmer repeatedly mentioned terms like "chip" and "FAB," yet omitted any reference to "Project Grit," a proposed large-scale development in Mundy Township.

Tyler Rossmaessler from the Flint & Genesee Economic Alliance expressed local leaders' interest in attracting an advanced manufacturing project similar to Whitmer's vision. However, he refrained from naming any specific company interested in the site near Bishop International Airport due to confidentiality concerns.

Media reports have speculated that Western Digital Technologies might be considering a $55 billion investment linked to former President Joe Biden’s “CHIPS Act.” Nonetheless, President Donald Trump has indicated he may pursue alternative plans, casting doubt on Project Grit's future.

Rossmaessler confirmed no business has committed to using the site yet but emphasized their efforts in preparing it for significant opportunities.

Semiconductor chips are crucial components for various technologies like medical devices and solar panels. Whitmer outlined the substantial work required for building a fab: moving enough soil “to fill 400 Olympic pools,” bending more steel than used for Mackinac Bridge construction, and pouring vast amounts of cement exceeding Ford Field's usage.

She portrayed the project as one with intergenerational impact where family members across generations could contribute at different stages—from foundation work to final production.