Stan Shih at Global Chamber on TSMC, Technology and the Semiconductor Industry
Phoenix, AZ – March 2025 – The 4th Annual Global Chamber® Semiconductor Summit 2025 featured dozens of compelling presentations including one hour of a compelling keynote presentation by global business icon Stan Shih. Speaking from Taiwan, Mr. Shih shared his insights on leadership, the semiconductor industry evolution, global collaboration, women in business and technology, and Taiwan’s (and TSMC’s) role in high-tech industries. Mr. Shih delivered the keynote address and there was a Q&A portion with Senator Francis Tesmer and CEO Doug Bruhnke.
Watch the nearly hour-long conversation with Stan Shih HERE.
TSMC and Advanced Semiconductor Manufacturing
In line with Mr. Shih's vision for global collaboration and innovation, TSMC recently announced a significant expansion of its advanced semiconductor manufacturing capabilities with the development of a third fabrication plant in Arizona. TSMC intends to expand its investment in the United States to US$165 billion to power the future of AI… the largest foreign direct investment in history.
Link to more background HERE and to the story on the TSMC website HERE.
This historic investment underscores Taiwan’s commitment to strengthening the U.S. semiconductor ecosystem and highlights the strategic partnership between Taiwan and the U.S. in securing a resilient global supply chain. Mr. Shih’s emphasis on specialization, talent development, and sustainable business models aligns with TSMC’s approach, reinforcing the importance of cooperative efforts in driving technological advancements and economic growth.
Leadership in a Changing World
Mr. Shih emphasized that leadership is essential for value creation and sustainability. He stressed the need for balancing stakeholder interests while fostering both tangible and intangible value. According to Mr. Shih, long-term success depends on investing in future opportunities and adapting to dynamic market conditions.
“Innovation is not just about technology but also about mindset transformation, mechanisms, and execution,” Mr. Shih said.
The Semiconductor Revolution and Taiwan's Role
Mr. Shih outlined the semiconductor industry’s transformation, tracing its journey from early transistors to today’s highly complex integrated circuits. He discussed the shift from vertical integration to a specialized supply chain model, a strategy that has allowed Taiwan to become a dominant player in semiconductor manufacturing through firms like TSMC.
“In the late 1980s, I envisioned Taiwan as a ‘High-Tech Island’ and a ‘Global Citizen.’ This vision has come true as Taiwan has become a critical part of the global technology supply chain,” Mr. Shih noted.
Taiwan's role in global economic security is crucial despite its small size. Mr. Shih recalled Taiwan's contribution to China’s modernization over the past 30 years through major export industries. However, shifting trade policies and political tensions have led many companies to relocate operations outside China, prompting Taiwan to explore new markets and partnerships.
Mr. Shih also highlighted Taiwan's success in acquiring foreign technology, noting that while Japan was reluctant to transfer technology, American companies facilitated Taiwan's growth in high-tech industries. The U.S. remains a key partner in technological advancements and semiconductor development.
The 'Smiling Curve' and Future Business Models
Mr. Shih introduced an updated multi-dimensional Smiling Curve, emphasizing that the highest value in a supply chain lies in R&D, branding, and customer experience rather than manufacturing. He stressed the integration of AI, IoT, and healthcare technologies to drive future growth.
“Taiwan must lead in AIoT and AI-driven medical advancements to stay competitive,” Mr. Shih asserted.
Arizona’s Role in the Semiconductor Industry
Addressing Arizona's growing semiconductor industry, Mr. Shih emphasized the need for openness, specialization, and collaboration. He advised leveraging the state’s talent pool to support TSMC’s expansion and fostering an innovation ecosystem. He also underscored the importance of sustainable cooperation in the high-tech sector, advocating for a "win-win" philosophy where shared benefits drive long-term success. CEO Doug Bruhnke of Global Chamber® echoed these sentiments, highlighting Arizona’s strategic position in the global semiconductor market and the importance of fostering international partnerships to drive innovation.
Global Workforce and Employee Engagement
Mr. Shih discussed Acer’s global workforce strategy, where two-thirds of employees operate outside Taiwan to manage international markets. He highlighted the importance of employee shareholding, noting that all employees are encouraged to become shareholders, aligning their interests with the company’s long-term success.
The company’s vision, Mr. Shih explained, is to break barriers between technology and people, ensuring accessibility and enhancing user experience. Adapting management strategies from the U.S. while tailoring them to Taiwan’s business culture has been key to success.
Women in Technology and Future Workforce Development
During the Q&A session, Mr. Shih addressed the role of women in the semiconductor industry, emphasizing the need to provide platforms for talent development. He cited examples of female leaders within his organizations and noted Taiwan’s strong entrepreneurial culture that fosters inclusivity.
“We do not lack talent; we need the right platforms for everyone to cultivate their potential,” Mr. Shih said.
Sustainability and the Future of Technology
Beyond semiconductors, Mr. Shih discussed his involvement in zero-emission projects, renewable energy solutions, and sustainable shipbuilding. He highlighted Europe's leadership in green technology and the potential for cross-border collaborations to address climate change.
Long-Term Vision: Medical Technology and Beyond
Looking ahead, Mr. Shih identified medical technology as the next major frontier, advocating for collaboration between medical and ICT professionals. Encouraging doctors to engage in AI and electronic advancements could expand Taiwan’s contributions beyond the technology sector.
This long-term vision, spanning 20-30 years, aims to create invisible yet significant value for global society, reinforcing Taiwan's role in driving sustainable technological advancements.
Conclusion
Stan Shih’s keynote at the 4th Annual Global Chamber® Semiconductor Summit 2025 reinforced his reputation as a visionary leader in global business and technology. His insights on leadership, semiconductor evolution, and sustainability provided a roadmap for the future. As Arizona and Taiwan continue to develop their semiconductor ecosystems,
Mr. Shih’s emphasis on collaboration, specialization, and talent development offers valuable guidance for ensuring long-term success in the rapidly evolving tech landscape. The involvement of Global Chamber® and CEO Doug Bruhnke further strengthens the international ties necessary to foster a thriving semiconductor industry on a global scale.
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