Fresno is priming itself to train the next generation workforce for advanced manufacturing, with some interest from semiconductor companies. But will it happen? Adobe stock image
published on November 24, 2025 – 1:41 PM
Written by Jeff Macon
In late 2023, Wyoming-based Tynergy, LLC, was heralded as one of the biggest economic development wins in Fresno’s recent history. Backed by a $15 million California Competes award, the semiconductor and energy storage manufacturer pledged to relocate to the Valley, build two facilities, and create more than 500 jobs paying starting salaries of around $70,000.
Two years later, the project’s status remains uncertain. Tynergy has yet to announce a final site in Fresno, leaving local leaders eager for clarity while continuing to prepare the groundwork for advanced manufacturing growth.
Tynergy, a subsidiary of Indonesia-based Mirah Green, outlined an ambitious vision: a semiconductor plant producing wafers from imported silica, paired with a flywheel-based energy storage facility. The company promised robust benefits for employees, from apprenticeships to childcare, while working with local unions and education providers on workforce training.
At the time, supporters saw the project as a strategic fit, hopeful it would give the Valley a position in the national semiconductor industry.
Since then, however, public updates have been sparse. Will Oliver, president and CEO of the Fresno County Economic Development Corp., confirmed that Tynergy has not committed to a Fresno site. “Tynergy has not yet made a final decision on a Fresno location, but the project continues to align with our broader semiconductor and CHIPS Act strategy,” he noted. “Meanwhile, we’re building out workforce initiatives like the new Central Valley FAME chapter to ensure local talent is prepared for advanced manufacturing opportunities.”
Tynergy’s CEO, Yan Purba, has been unavailable for comment.
Even without a firm site announcement, the Valley is positioning itself for semiconductor-related opportunities. Chris Zeitz, vice president of workforce development at Fresno EDC, described a “continuum of training” for advanced manufacturing careers, including these programs:
Manufacturing Generalist: a short-term, entry-level program, with a follow-up “2.0” version focused on machining.
FAME (Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education): a 2.5-year apprenticeship model combining Reedley College studies with paid work at local manufacturers.
Intensive Welding: a four-month program through State Center Community College District’s Training Institute, delivering American Welding Society certifications.
“These pathways are co-designed with employers and apprenticeship providers, ensuring that training leads directly to high-quality careers,” Zeitz said. The approach follows the principles of the federal Good Jobs Challenge, with an emphasis on employer-led training and clear advancement opportunities.
For Fresno, the stakes are high. Cliff Long, the city’s new director of economic development, emphasized the broader importance of advanced manufacturing.
Supporting technology and advanced manufacturing operations is a key strategy for Fresno’s future prosperity,” Long said. “These companies create good-paying jobs, not just for engineers and technicians, but for workers from many trades. Attracting technology companies helps diversify our economy and brings new opportunities for our existing businesses and residents of the area.”
Long noted he was not involved in Tynergy’s original 2023 announcement, but has since discussed the project with Oliver. The city, he said, remains focused on attracting industries that are “a good fit for Fresno and share our commitment to improving quality of life.”
If Tynergy moves forward, one challenge looms large: water. Semiconductor fabrication is notoriously water-intensive, and the Central Valley already grapples with drought, overdrafted aquifers, and competing agricultural demands. Local officials stress that any new industrial development must adopt world-class water efficiency.
Tynergy has promoted its sustainable energy credentials, arguing that its flywheel technology could support California’s clean energy transition. But details on how it would balance semiconductor water demand with regional sustainability remain scarce.
As Fresno positions itself for the federal CHIPS Act and the reshoring of U.S. semiconductor production, Tynergy’s project remains a bellwether. If realized, it could anchor a new sector of high-paying, high-tech jobs in the Central Valley. If delayed or relocated, it would underscore the challenges California faces in competing with other states for semiconductor investment.
For now, the Valley waits. The infrastructure, workforce, and political support are aligning, but the decision rests with Tynergy.