Samsung Austin Semiconductor Celebrates 30 Years

From a single fab to a powerhouse of innovation, Samsung Austin Semiconductor's 30-year journey in Austin has been truly extraordinary.

On March 3, 2026, we hosted a special event to commemorate our 30th anniversary, featuring special guests Austin Mayor Kirk Watson and Adriana Cruz, executive director of Texas' Economic Development and Tourism division.

During the celebration, Mayor Watson issued a proclamation honoring Samsung Austin Semiconductor for this significant milestone. In his speech, Watson reflected on how his own public service timeline aligns with Samsung's.

Click here for Samsung Austin Semiconductor's
timeline

In 1996, when Samsung Electronics selected Austin, Texas, as the location for its first semiconductor manufacturing site in the United States, Watson was serving as a volunteer vice chair with the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce, closely collaborating with then-Mayor Bruce Todd. The following year, Watson was elected mayor, where he served until 2001.

"I don't believe Austin would be able to brag the way we do—that we are an international city—but for the role that Samsung has played," Watson said. "In addition, I don't believe we would be able to brag about some of the great things that have happened locally but for the commitment that Samsung has had to Austin, Texas and Central Texas. It has truly been phenomenal and one that I am very proud of."

Cruz's remarks highlighted Samsung Austin Semiconductor's economic impact in the past 30 years. "In 1996, the $1.4 billion [investment in the first fab] was the largest single foreign investment in Texas history," Cruz said. "Samsung's selection of Austin for its first fab transformed Austin and Central Texas and gave birth to the growing semiconductor ecosystem across Texas."

"Thirty years is no small feat. It takes grit, resilience and dedication," added Cruz. "Your commitment to Texas truly means the world to us and the state of Texas is proud to be Samsung's home in the United States. We appreciate you and we thank you for choosing Texas 30 years ago."

Jon Taylor, executive vice president of Infra Technology at Samsung Austin Semiconductor, reminisced about how Parmer Lane didn't exist when he started with the company in June of 1997. "It was a dirt road that started at Dessau Road and ended at our driveway. And we ate at Ken's Tacos every day for lunch," joked Taylor.

"When I think about this impact amplified by three decades, I feel exceedingly proud for what we've accomplished, together," Taylor added. "From all corners and levels of our company, your contributions and skills keep Samsung Austin Semiconductor moving forward."

Samsung Austin Semiconductor president Bonyoung Koo echoed the far-reaching impact the company's employees, contractors and vendors have. "None of this would be possible without our people who are bold, resilient and who are not satisfied with the status quo," Koo said.

As we celebrate this occasion, we're reminded of our commitment to lead, innovate and enrich the Austin community for generations to come. Here's to the next 30 years of inspiring innovation!

Recognizing our employees

During the event, we also recognized our longest-tenured employees, pictured below top right. The title of longest-serving employee goes to Woody Duke, who joined Samsung Austin Semiconductor in July 1996.

Additionally, seven other employees started with us in January and February of 1997.

While much has changed since their new employee orientation, their dedication has not! Thank you to these exceptional employees.