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Schenectady, N.Y., June 9, 2021 — The Schenectady County Metroplex Development Authority today announced that the vacant 18,000 square foot former M&P Lab building at 2210 Technology Drive in Schenectady will be redeveloped as a research facility that will support the semiconductor industry. The project involves a total investment of almost $4 million. The new owner is First Principles Technology. On Wednesday evening, the Metroplex Board of Directors approved an $83,000 infrastructure grant to help run a new water line into the building and install a sprinkler system.
The project is being developed by Mr. Robert Maire who is the owner of First Principles Technology. Mr. Maire also operates a consulting firm, Semiconductor Advisors, that provides financial and strategic advisory services to technology companies specializing in the semiconductor equipment and cleantech sectors. He formerly served as an analyst covering semiconductor equipment companies for Morgan Stanley, Bear Stearns, and others.
“Schenectady County continues to attract new business and investment,” said Anthony Jasenski, Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature. “Our economic development team has done a great job matching the needs of businesses to existing structures within the County that benefit both the company and our community.”
Mayor Gary McCarthy said, “As more technology companies continue to call Schenectady home, we are leading the way to build the 21st century economy right here in the Capital Region. I would like to thank Mr. Maire of First Principles Technology and Metroplex for their leadership on this project that will create good-paying local jobs in this growing industry.”
“Schenectady County is home to many technology companies,” said Ray Gillen, Metroplex Chair. “By retooling this lab facility, we provide research space for growing semiconductor industry suppliers to locate and grow in Schenectady, helping the Capital Region continue to develop its leading role in this key technology sector. We are pleased that Robert Maire has selected Schenectady for this new research facility.”
Robert Maire said, “We feel this is both a perfect facility and perfect location to develop advanced semiconductor technology in support of the industry and the capital region’s existing efforts. As evidenced by current news of semiconductor shortages and the need to re-invest in semiconductor technology in the U.S. it is clear that the need is high and the time is now to make this sort of investment. We will have a number of companies working cooperatively, under one roof, to more quickly and efficiently develop much needed technology to advance the industry and domestic interests.”
The project involves adapting the vacant chemical lab into a semiconductor lab for R&D that ultimately leads to improved designs for machinery and tooling used in “chip fab” plants. The building is fully pre-leased as three semiconductor suppliers including a large international firm have already signed agreements to occupy space. A building expansion may be considered to accommodate additional companies. The project is expected to create 40 well-paying, skilled, high tech jobs immediately with the potential for further growth.