We often describe Taiwan as having built one of the world’s most important semiconductor industries. I’m no longer convinced that’s the best way to describe what happened.
It built the capabilities that allowed a semiconductor industry to emerge—and, just as importantly, to keep evolving as the world changed.
Institutions. It became a bridge between government, universities and industry.
Talent. The talent pipeline was growing.
Engineering culture. The engineering culture was taking shape.
Patience. A willingness to invest patiently in capabilities before the opportunity was obvious.