A Commitment to Oklahoma's Economic Development
The CLPR's goal is to help Oklahoma become a competitive player in the national and international semiconductor and optoelectronics markets. Its unique structure bridges traditional academic boundaries to promote technology transfer and to facilitate University-Industry collaborations. University-Industry joint efforts are closely tied to the CLPR's commitment to Oklahoma's economic development through the strengthening of existing industries and the creation of new companies, products, and jobs. This economic growth, in turn, helps the University through an increase in the level of research and enrollment. The combination of the semiconductor growth capabilities and the cleanroom facilities will prove beneficial to the state's economic development potential and competitiveness because Oklahoma will be in a much stronger position to attract high-tech industries, especially in semiconductor-related areas. This technology is crucial to improving the ability of Oklahoma industries to compete at progressively higher levels in the national and international markets, to attract high-tech industries to the State, and to encourage the development of new industries. The presence of these high-tech facilities is a critical element in leading high-tech companies to select Oklahoma and Stillwater as their plant sites over the many other competing out-of-state locations.
Securing a steady stream of highly skilled personnel is crucial for the survival of a high-tech company, which has to stay abreast of rapidly emerging technologies. In addition to the benefits associated with scientific and technical personnel training, the facilities can also be used to test new design concepts, prototype product development, and assess product performance, thus helping companies prepare for the next generation of "unknown" technology. Establishing reputable semiconductor R&D facilities will keep OSU in the forefront of rapidly changing semiconductor technology. Because the CLPR will operate the first University cleanroom complex in Oklahoma, OSU will be able to provide industrial personnel with one-of-a-kind, state-of-the-art, high-tech training through the facilities. The equipment housed in the cleanroom will provide unique opportunities for advanced technology development in collaboration with industries and give them a decided advantage over other manufacturers by enabling the marketing of new products at the earliest possible date.
To assist in economic development efforts, many CLPR faculty participate in collaborative efforts with Oklahoma industries, as well as with industries throughout the United States. It is clear that future research funding will be focused on University-Industry collaborations. Because of this changing environment, the CLPR is actively participating in this new trend toward more University-Industry collaborations to enhance economic development and technology transfer.

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