Electronics

Metro New Mexico's electronics cluster is diverse and growing. Anchored by Intel Corp., the cluster of about 50 companies includes lab spinoffs and start-ups, mature home-grown firms, and relocating companies. Industry incentives offer electronics companies many opportunities and advantages over surrounding states.

Activities include:

• manufacturing computer chips, silicon wafers and electronic components and equipment
• developing and producing semiconductor measurement tools and training equipment
• electronics fabrication and assembly.

Industry Leaders

Intel, in Rio Rancho since 1980, has expanded three times. Its semiconductor manufacturing operation is now the largest of its kind in the world.

In November 2004 Sparton, an electronic parts manufacturer, expanded to a 110,000-square-foot plant. The company had offers from other cities but chose to stay because of its 200 employees here.

Small and medium-size companies do well here. Bi Ra Systems Inc., founded in 1972, is a family-owned designer of electronic lab equipment. Affordable land and low interest rates made it possible for the company to buy a building and expand late in 2004. InnovASIC, which designs and fabricates replacement semiconductors, will grow with $4.25 million in second-round venture capital financing. And SBS Technologies, which makes embedded components, expanded in 2005.

Work Force Training

Training availability starts in high school with the Advanced Technology Academy and extends through graduate work. Central New Mexico Community College's electronics and advanced manufacturing programs, developed with industry input, are well established. The University of New Mexico's School of Engineering has degree programs in manufacturing engineering, with a semiconductor and electronics track.