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The University at Buffalo’s Bridging the Gap: Activating the Semiconductor Supply Chain Network conference connected leaders, manufacturers, and regional stakeholders for a two-day conversation on how to grow New York’s presence in the global semiconductor industry. Held July 15-16 at the UB Center for the Arts and Alfiero Center, the event offered a valuable combination of insights, networking, and strategy building around supply chain activation and industry readiness. 

What Happened 

Over the course of two days, participants connected with industry leaders from companies such as Micron, Moog, and Edwards Vacuum. Sessions explored the quality standards required for semiconductor suppliers, how to navigate federal and state purchasing processes, what it takes to finance a business expansion, and what it takes to successfully play a part in domestic chipmaking. 

Hosted by UB’s Center for Supply Chain Analytics, in partnership with the NY SMART I-Corridor, the conference highlighted the region’s growing role in shaping America’s semiconductor future. “The United States is making a comeback in semiconductor production,” said Ajay Balan, Senior Manager of Silicon Planning at Micron Technology. 

BNP at The Table 

One of the conference’s standout moments was Session 2: NY SMART I-Corridor Tech Hub and GO-SEMI, where BNP President and CEO Dottie Gallagher joined other regional leaders to discuss the exciting progress being made as a result of our Regional Tech Hub effort. 

The panel shared how coordinated efforts across Buffalo, Rochester, and Syracuse are already driving infrastructure investment, industry partnerships, and workforce development. Gallagher spoke on the strength of our regional collaboration and explained the behind-the-scenes work happening to connect employers with opportunities.  

How Employers Benefited 

In addition to the information shared, the Lightning Round Buyer Needs Talks, one-on-one supplier meetings, and targeted sessions on government contracting helped businesses better understand the landscape and upcoming opportunities. Presentations from Edwards Vacuum, Moog, and GDI offered direct insights into specific sourcing needs. 

• Edwards Vacuum is seeking materials like sheet metal, aluminum and iron castings, piping, and tubing. 

• Moog is looking for suppliers of precision machining and electronic components. 

• GDI emphasized their facility services, particularly contamination control in the clean rooms that are critical in semiconductor production which refer to cleanliness classifications critical in semiconductor manufacturing. 

The key takeaway: the semiconductor supply chain is deeply interconnected and presents exciting opportunities for Buffalo Niagara businesses to get involved. 

Looking Ahead 

Bridging the Gap was more than a conference, as it marked a milestone in Upstate New York’s rise as a national semiconductor leader. The strategies shared, partnerships formed, and challenges addressed all reinforce that the NY SMART I-Corridor is not waiting for the future but actively building it. 

Get Involved 

If you’re a supplier, manufacturer, or workforce partner looking to plug into the semiconductor ecosystem, visit the NY SMART I-Corridor’s website for updates on available resources, opportunities, and upcoming events.