Intel (INTC.O) has revealed plans to invest $1.2 billion in Costa Rica over the next two years, as stated in a recent press release. This significant investment comes in the wake of the U.S. State Department's announcement in July of its partnership with the Costa Rican government to bolster the country's semiconductor sector under the 2022 Chips and Science Act. These developments indicate a mutual commitment to support and strengthen Costa Rica's semiconductor industry.
Intel's campus in Costa Rica is strategically located in the province of Heredia, just north of the country's capital. It houses a cutting-edge Research and Development Center as well as a Global Services Center that play a crucial role in providing essential services and solutions for the entire corporation.
Since 1997, Intel's presence in Costa Rica has not only contributed to the growth of the country but has also attracted Foreign Direct Investment. With over 2000 employees, the Costa Rican facility is involved in various activities such as designing, prototyping, testing, and validating integrated circuits and software solutions. Additionally, it offers support in finance, human resources, procurement, sales, and marketing.
Originally established as an assembly and test manufacturing facility, Intel's operations in Costa Rica have evolved significantly over the years. It now operates as a state-of-the-art Research and Development Center and a Global Services Center, making it a vital part of the corporation. In fact, Intel Costa Rica accounts for 60% of the country's research and development exports, contributing significantly to its progression in the Global Value Chain. Moreover, aside from the direct and indirect employment opportunities created, Intel's presence has spurred further foreign direct investments in the country.
Intel Costa Rica is committed to promoting Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education. The company actively participates in volunteer initiatives and provides in-kind donations aimed at preparing young individuals for the future of work. Programs like "Let's play engineering" (Juguemos a la ingeniería) engage engineers who share various branches of engineering through interactive games. "Vocational STEM" (STEM vocacional) sessions are organized by Intel employees, who share their personal stories to inspire high school students to pursue careers in engineering. These outreach efforts reach thousands of people each year. Intel Costa Rica also collaborates with public and private universities in the country, offering assistance in evaluating and updating their curricula to align with emerging technologies and enhance student employability. The topics covered include electrical engineering, integrated circuit design, printed circuit board design, data science, and critical soft skills required in the workforce. Furthermore, Intel hosts multidisciplinary workshops at their Innovation Center to help professors enhance their teaching skills and incorporate new topics into their courses.
