Intel Pumps $5B into Hillsboro Campus, Adds 1,000 Jobs to Oregon Chip Hub

HILLSBORO, Ore. — Intel Corp. announced a $5 billion expansion of its sprawling Hillsboro campus on Thursday, promising 1,000 new jobs and reinforcing Oregon's status as a semiconductor powerhouse. The project, first reported by Oregon Business, focuses on ramping up production of next-generation chips using 18A and 14A process technologies — advanced nodes critical for powering the world's most sophisticated processors. Intel executives emphasized the site's role in the company's strategy to reclaim U.S. leadership in chip manufacturing, aligning with federal goals to onshore advanced semiconductor capacity.

The Hillsboro facility, Intel's largest in Oregon and a cornerstone of the region's 'Silicon Forest,' will see investments in research, development and manufacturing over the next several years. 'We're laser-focused on process technology leadership,' an Intel representative stated, highlighting ongoing work on 18A ramp-up and future nodes like 14A right in Hillsboro. This builds on Intel's decades-long presence in Washington County, where it already employs over 20,000 workers and contributes billions to the local economy annually.

Oregon officials, including Gov. Tina Kotek, welcomed the news as a timely boost amid global chip shortages and trade tensions. The expansion supports the CHIPS and Science Act's aims, with Intel prioritizing Oregon alongside sites in Arizona, New Mexico and Ohio. Local impacts include strengthened supply chains in the Portland metro area and enhanced training programs at institutions like Portland Community College, which partners with Intel on workforce development.

Amid broader industry shifts, Intel faces competition but gains from partnerships like its recent AI collaboration with NVIDIA, though that deal is separate from the Hillsboro investment. The $5 billion commitment underscores Oregon's pivotal role in America's tech resurgence, with job growth projected to ripple through housing, education and infrastructure in Hillsboro and beyond.