On our last day of the program, we visited the Intel Assembly Plant.  Once again, I am not the brightest crayon in the box in terms of understanding the internal components of computers.  Nevertheless, I jumped in with both feet as the IT Service Ops Manager, Marco, enlightened our group on the why Intel chose Costa Rica, and moreover illustrated how Intel contributes to the local economy.

Initially, Intel had all their eggs in the Southeast Asia market and needed a new assembly and test facility to maintain its leadership position.  Intel began a comprehensive search for the right location to expand its international manufacturing capabilities.  In 1996, Intel decided to build their new plant in Costa Rica due to a few key reasons including that the government offered investment incentives in the Free Trade Zone, the education in Costa Rica was/is strong, and the roads from the plant to the international airport were in excellent condition. In terms of foreign investment, Intel was a pioneer in Costa Rica and is recognized as a catalyst of new foreign companies investing in this beautiful country.  Although the numbers vary, Intel is directly responsible for up to 10% of Costa Rica’s total GDP and accounts for 20% of the total exports.

Furthermore, Intel recognizes the importance of giving back to the local economy.  Intel has invested over $800 million which is seven times the initial commitment and has purchased $120 million in local goods in the last 3 years.  Also, Intel has purchased over 10,000 books for kids in 2011 alone and has built after school clubhouses for 3,000 kids in Alajuela. Another way that the Intel employees give back is that 60% of the workforce averages 30 hours of community service.  According to surveys, 92% of the Costa Rica population considers that Intel supports the local economy.  In a nut shell, Intel decision to build their new plant was absolutely vital as Costa Rica continues to attract even more foreign investments.