The New Semi Conductor, by William Shockley

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Don is a mechanical engineer. He doesn't know anything about electrical engineering, but he's working in this new semi conductor division. Don gets posted as a junior engineer sylvania's ipswich, massachusetts plant. Not quite the same glamor as done out in southern california. So after work, he's living in a hotel, by the way. It's like some company sponsord hotel. Like, what a sad existence.

It's time. We dive into the unbelievable history behind the quietest technology giant of them all — and as of recording the world's 9th (!) most valuable company — the Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company. This story checks every box in the Acquired pantheon of greatness: China, America, MIT, Don Valentine, Silicon Valley, "real men" looking silly, and... moats literally built by lasers. We're not kidding. Pull up a seat and settle in for a great one!

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Episode Sources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1rQMgQDY5c3Fs5DsjB4cZHVZGdhN4kK-6HapO_r7pjyQ/edit?usp=sharing

Carve Outs:

Ted Lasso (Season 1): https://tv.apple.com/us/show/ted-lasso/umc.cmc.vtoh0mn0xn7t3c643xqonfzy
Greek: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0976014/
Who is Michael Ovitz?: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07B2HS77M/

‍Note: Acquired hosts and guests may hold assets discussed in this episode. This podcast is not investment advice, and is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. You should do your own research and make your own independent decisions when considering any financial transactions.