News Summary
Radiance Technologies has announced a $370 million investment to establish a new microchip packaging facility in Ruston, Louisiana. This facility will create 150 high-wage jobs, far exceeding local salary averages, and is expected to significantly boost the local economy. With construction set to begin in 2026, the project has strong support from Louisiana Economic Development and aims to enhance collaboration between industry and education.
Ruston, Louisiana Announces $370 Million Microchip Facility Investment
Radiance Technologies, a defense contractor headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama, has committed to a substantial $370 million investment to establish a new microchip packaging facility in Ruston, Louisiana. This new facility will be constructed on a 40,000-square-foot site located in Lincoln Parish, just north of the Ruston Sports Complex.
The new facility is anticipated to create 150 direct high-wage jobs, with an average annual salary of $85,000, significantly higher than the average for the parish, which rests at around $47,222—indicating salaries that are up to 180% above local averages. In addition to these direct openings, Louisiana Economic Development (LED) estimates approximately 146 indirect jobs will be generated, suggesting a total potential job creation of 296 in the northwest region.
The announcement regarding this investment was made during a press conference held on August 25, 2025, at the Louisiana Tech University Integrated Engineering and Science Building. In support of the project, LED has pledged $20 million in matching funds through a performance-based grant to the Louisiana Tech University Foundation aimed at acquiring equipment for the upcoming facility. Furthermore, an additional $17 million has been dedicated to Louisiana Tech University for enhancing research equipment and establishing specialized training programs focusing on secure chip manufacturing.
Facility Operations and Timeline
The new facility is set to emphasize research, development, design, and fabrication operations dedicated to secure microchip technology. Plans indicate that construction will commence in spring 2026, with an estimated completion date in summer 2027. This expansion signifies Radiance Technologies’ ongoing commitment to the state, following their investments in existing locations in Shreveport and Baton Rouge.
Implications for Economic Development
This initiative is expected to have a significant impact on the economic landscape of Ruston and the surrounding regions. Radiance Technologies’ expansion aligns with Louisiana’s strategy of leveraging public funds to stimulate private sector growth in the defense and technology sectors. The collaboration among state officials, the city of Ruston, and Louisiana Tech University aims to bolster economic development through strategically focused partnerships.
Industry and Educational Collaboration
Radiance Technologies has maintained a long-standing partnership with Louisiana Tech, tapping into the university’s academic resources and talent pipeline for its various projects. This collaboration not only enhances job opportunities in the area but also enriches educational programs designed to provide the workforce needed for emerging technologies.
Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry has noted that the establishment of this facility will bolster national security and position North Louisiana as a center for advanced manufacturing. Ruston Mayor Ronny Walker has also recognized the agreement as a prime example of successful cooperation between educational institutions and industry, highlighting the potential for success through unified efforts.
Conclusion
The investment by Radiance Technologies heralds a promising future for the local economy, with substantial job creation and increased educational opportunities in the field of microchip manufacturing. As the project moves forward, it reflects a broader commitment to strengthening Louisiana’s defenses and technological advancements, solidifying its position in the national landscape.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- KNOE
- Wikipedia: Microchip
- Shreveport Times
- Google Search: Microchip manufacturing
- Black Chronicle
- Google Scholar: Microchip technology
- Business Facilities
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Microchip
- Ruston Leader
- Google News: Ruston microchip facility
Author: STAFF HERE NEWORLEANS WRITER
NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER The NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewOrleans.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New Orleans, Orleans Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as French Quarter Festival, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and Essence Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce and Greater New Orleans, Inc., plus leading businesses in energy, healthcare, and education that power the local economy such as Entergy, Ochsner Health, and Tulane University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREShreveport.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
