The Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA) on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, named Michael Robbins as its next president and chief executive officer, effective October 1. Robbins will step into the role at a moment when U.S. chip policy — from CHIPS Act implementation and export controls to workforce and AI infrastructure — is squarely at the center of national economic and security debate.
Succeeds John Neuffer after 12 years
Robbins succeeds John Neuffer, who announced in January his intent to retire after nearly 12 years leading the association. Neuffer will remain through September to hand over the reins. “Michael Robbins joins SIA at an important moment for our industry,” said AMD chair and CEO Lisa Su, who serves as 2026 SIA board chair, citing his ability to advance policies that strengthen the U.S. semiconductor ecosystem and accelerate innovation.
Coming from the drones and autonomy trade group
Robbins currently serves as president and CEO of the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI), the largest trade group for drones, robotics, and autonomous systems, where he joined in 2020 and previously served as chief advocacy officer. Before AUVSI, he co-founded Washington consulting firm Intrepid and led government and public affairs at the Air Line Pilots Association. He also serves as an officer in the U.S. Navy Reserve, and earlier spent a decade as chief of staff to the late Rep. John D. Dingell (D-Mich.). AUVSI's board named Heather Lee acting president and CEO to lead the association from October 1.
Chip-industry priorities await
SIA represents about 99% of the U.S. semiconductor industry by revenue and nearly two-thirds of non-U.S. chip firms, wielding significant influence over Washington policy. Robbins inherits a full agenda: defending CHIPS Act incentives that anchor projects like Sony and TSMC's $6.4 billion Kumamoto joint venture, addressing AI-driven capacity demand tied to buildouts like Firebird's Armenia AI factory, and shaping export-control policy amid renewed scrutiny of Nvidia China shipments.
Reporting based on coverage from the Semiconductor Industry Association, AUVSI, DroneLife and EE Times India.