[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 137 (Tuesday, October 25, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2173]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  25TH ANNIVERSARY OF INTEL RIO RANCHO

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. TOM UDALL

                             of new mexico

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, October 25, 2005

  Mr. UDALL of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 
25th anniversary of the Intel Corporation facility in Rio Rancho, in my 
home state of New Mexico. Intel Corporation came to New Mexico in 1980 
with just 25 employees and a tremendous vision for the future; today 
Intel is the largest employer in Rio Rancho, an area now known as the 
Silicon Mesa. Intel Corporation is a vital part of the local economy 
and a major contributor to civic and educational programs in Rio Rancho 
and the surrounding area.
  Intel has been instrumental in the growth and economic development of 
Rio Rancho throughout the years; as plant operations expanded so did 
the number of employees and support services utilized by this 
technology giant. Intel expansion has resulted in numerous improvements 
in Rio Rancho; in 1997, the corporation donated $30 million dollars for 
the construction of a much-needed high school.
  Intel currently employs over seven thousand workers and 
subcontractors in New Mexico who benefit from wages that are well above 
the state average. Area businesses also flourish as Intel continually 
bolsters the local economy by purchasing goods and services in Rio 
Rancho. The city of Rio Rancho has grown, and continues to grow, around 
the presence of Intel Corporation.
  Intel's involvement in Rio Rancho extends far beyond economic 
consideration, and commitment to community is evident by the 
corporation's participation in numerous philanthropic programs. Intel 
employees regularly volunteer time on many local art, education and 
cultural projects which are then matched by corporate funding. Intel 
also awards monetary grants to local organizations seeking to better 
the community and the state of New Mexico.
  The Intel Corporation plays a key role in technology education in New 
Mexico. Intel partners with higher learning institutions in the state 
to create programs and curriculum that prepare students for employment 
at the Rio Rancho facility. Additionally, Intel provides access to 
technology in the Computer Clubhouse program and donates funding and 
equipment to local schools.
  Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating Intel Corporation on 25 
successful years of business in Rio Rancho. Intel's presence in Rio 
Rancho has resulted in abundant resources for both employees and the 
surrounding community. Intel is an integral component in the growth of 
Rio Rancho and a stabilizing factor in the local economy. I thank the 
Intel Corporation for their consistent participation and lasting 
contributions to Rio Rancho and the state of New Mexico.

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