Samsung Austin Semiconductor celebrated its 30th anniversary in Austin with a special event on March 3, attended by local officials including Mayor Kirk Watson and Adriana Cruz, executive director of Texas’ Economic Development and Tourism division. The event featured a proclamation from Mayor Watson honoring the company’s milestone and highlighted the impact Samsung has had on the city since opening its first U.S. semiconductor manufacturing site in 1996.
The celebration underscores Samsung’s role in shaping Austin’s economic landscape over three decades. Local leaders say that Samsung’s investment helped transform both the city and Central Texas into a hub for semiconductor innovation.
Mayor Watson reflected on his own history with Samsung’s arrival, saying, “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. 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 also recognized Samsung’s contributions: “In 1996, the $1.4 billion [investment in the first fab] was the largest single foreign investment in Texas history,” she 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.” She added, “Thirty years is no small feat. It takes grit, resilience and dedication… 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, shared memories from his early days at the company: “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.” He continued: “When I think about this impact amplified by three decades, I feel exceedingly proud for what we’ve accomplished, together… your contributions and skills keep Samsung Austin Semiconductor moving forward.” President Bonyoung Koo credited employees: “None of this would be possible without our people who are bold, resilient and who are not satisfied with the status quo,” Koo said.
The event also recognized long-serving employees such as Woody Duke—who joined in July 1996—and others hired soon after as key contributors to company success over time.
Organizations like the Austin Chamber of Commerce play an important role supporting regional economic growth through collaboration among businesses; they promote inclusive development benefiting neighborhoods; rely on board leadership; cover economic efforts across greater Austin; build partnerships advancing both community interests and business opportunities; while providing events designed to help companies grow—all according to their official website.
As it looks ahead beyond three decades in operation locally, company leaders say they remain committed to innovation as well as supporting their workforce—and plan continued engagement within Greater Austin.
