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Darin Hart is senior vice president of advanced technology at Boston-based Suffolk Construction. The opinions are the author’s own.
As the backbone of modern technology, the semiconductor industry is experiencing unprecedented growth. This increase is fueled by growing demand for advanced electronics, from smartphones and laptops to electric vehicles and artificial intelligence. During the pandemic, the need to manufacture advanced electronics on US shores became even more apparent.
To meet this demand, the construction industry must evolve, adopt new technologies and improve operational efficiency. But the challenge so far is that our industry has not kept up with technical advances or productivity gains. Builders can buck this trend now by using technology to create technology. Here’s how.
Darin Hart
Courtesy of Suffolk Construction
Building information modeling: BIM has become a game changer for construction projects in the semiconductor industry. By creating detailed digital models of facilities, construction teams can simulate processes, optimize workflows, and anticipate challenges before they arise. This proactive approach leads to faster project completion times and reduced costs, allowing companies to stay competitive in a fast-paced market.
Off site manufacturing: Off-site manufacturing is critical to factory construction today due to the size and complexity of these constructions. Off-site assembly production saves time and money and provides a controlled work environment, creating safer production of subassemblies.
Automation and robotics: Automation and robotics can increase production and efficiency. Through Suffolk Technologies, a Suffolk-affiliated venture capital platform, we work with startups in the built world to pilot and scale their products on-site. These include KayaAIthat automates and streamlines the hiring process, i Robust roboticswhich uses robotics to perfect the layout of the field.
Energy efficient designsThe new semiconductor factories include renewable energy sources such as solar and wind, advanced HVAC systems and efficient lighting. By reducing energy consumption, companies can reduce operating costs while contributing to global sustainability goals. Suffolk Design, our in-house design and design management team, has partnered with engineers and architects to streamline the design and construction workflow and achieve the most buildable and energy efficient designs possible.
Water conservation technologies: Water is a critical resource in semiconductor manufacturing, used extensively in the manufacturing process. Innovative construction techniques include recycling systems and rainwater harvesting. In this area, Suffolk Technologies works with WINT Water Intelligencethat detects and stops leaks at the fountain using artificial intelligence, alerts users when water is leaking and automatically shuts it off.
Material selection: Designs and technologies are increasingly promoting non-traditional building materials. Many construction companies are opting for recycled or eco-friendly materials, which not only reduce waste, but often result in better performance. This commitment to sustainability is becoming a differentiator in the competitive landscape of semiconductor construction.
Workforce Development: Construction companies need to invest in technology to ensure team members want to join the field and are equipped with the skills needed to build and operate new factories effectively. Many companies are establishing training programs to upskill their workforce in areas such as robotics, BIM and sustainable construction practices. Partnerships with educational institutions can facilitate the transfer of knowledge and ensure a steady pipeline of skilled workers.
Faced with the dual challenge of meeting growing demand and closing the skills gap to build these facilities, we are at a crucial moment. As technology continues to evolve, so will the strategies and approaches to building the facilities that enable innovation in the semiconductor industry. By remaining agile and forward-looking, the semiconductor manufacturing industry can not only keep pace with technological advances, but also lead the charge toward a more efficient and sustainable future.
