The Information and Communications Technology Council of Canada (ICTC) has partnered with the Center for Security and Emerging Technology (CSET) at Georgetown University on a first-of-its-kind research initiative to map the semiconductor industries in Canada and the United States.
The initiative will focus on identifying and comparing national strengths in semiconductor industries, examining the applications of semiconductors across industries, understanding the impacts of transformative technologies like AI, as well as supply chain resiliency, labour market needs, opportunities for workforce development—including upskilling and reskilling existing workers to meet evolving industry needs—and avenues for Canada-U.S. collaboration to safeguard economic security and competitiveness in the global semiconductor marketplace.
"This collaboration comes at a crucial time as both Canada and the United States work to strengthen their semiconductor capabilities. By mapping our respective industry landscapes and identifying complementary strengths, we can build more resilient supply chains and create meaningful opportunities for workforce development across both nations." - Rob Davidson, Director of Data Science, ICTC
“The semiconductor industry is fundamental to both technological innovation and national security. Through this partnership with ICTC, we'll develop a comprehensive understanding of North American semiconductor capabilities that can inform evidence-based policies and strategic investments in this critical sector." - Dr. Matthias Oschinski, Senior Fellow at CSET
The semiconductor industry in Canada
Semiconductors are critical to Canadians’ daily lives and are needed for current technologies and future innovations in nearly every industry, including automotive, telecommunications, defence and low-carbon technologies.
Canada has a long-established and innovative semiconductor industry that continues to flourish in global markets and capitalize on an increasingly digital and green economy. The Government of Canada is committed to making advancements to position Canada as a critical global supplier of specialized semiconductor technologies.
The semiconductor industry in the U.S.
Semiconductors form the foundation of the digital economy, enabling innovations that make the world smarter, greener, more efficient, and better connected. With up to tens of billions of transistors on a single chip, producing these complex devices is a marvel of modern technology, made possible by the synchronous synergy of highly advanced research, design, and manufacturing.
In 2022, the U.S. enacted the landmark CHIPS and Science Act to provide needed semiconductor research investments and manufacturing incentives and to reinforce America’s economy, national security, and supply chains.
About the Information and Communications Technology Council of Canada (ICTC)
The Information and Communications Technology Council (ICTC) is a neutral, not-for-profit national centre of expertise with the mission of strengthening Canada's digital advantage in the global economy.
ICTC strives to stay ahead of the curve as digital technologies rapidly advance and transform industries and society. For over 30 years, and with a team of 110 experts, our goal is to ensure that technology is utilized to drive economic growth and innovation and that Canada's workforce remains competitive on a global scale.
To accomplish our mission, we partner with a vast network of industry leaders, policymakers, and academic institutions to focus on areas like digital skills development, technology adoption, and innovation. Our work comprises forward-looking research, practical policy advice, and capacity-building solutions for individuals and businesses.
We assist government and industry leaders in recognizing current and future opportunities and developing strategies to fully exploit the potential of the digital economy. We also help Canadians of all backgrounds acquire the skills they need to be successful in Canada’s economy while helping businesses transform and improve their competitiveness for today’s and tomorrow’s marketplace.
About Center for Security and Emerging Technology (CSET)
A policy research organization within Georgetown University’s Walsh School of Foreign Service, CSET provides decision-makers with data-driven analysis on the security implications of emerging technologies. Additionally, we seek to prepare a new generation of leaders to address the challenges and opportunities of emerging technologies.
For more information about this ongoing research initiative, please contact Mairead Matthews, Manager of Digital Policy at ICTC, at @email.
