Intel Plans Third-Party 18A Foundry Services as Chair Frank Yeary Retires
Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan is positioning the 18A chipmaking node for third-party foundry services after relegating it to in-house use, as CFO David Zinsner highlights its ramp progress. Board chair Frank Yeary will retire in May and be succeeded by Craig Barratt, marking another governance refresh under Tan.
1. 18A Node Opening to External Clients
Intel has reversed its stance on the 18A manufacturing process, now offering the leading-edge node to external foundry customers after keeping it reserved for internal projects last year. CFO David Zinsner confirmed that ramp-up of the 18A node is on track, potentially unlocking new contract opportunities and diversifying revenue beyond in-house chip production.
2. Board Chair Retirement and Governance Refresh
Frank Yeary, an Intel board member since 2009 and chair since 2023, will retire following the annual shareholder meeting in May. He will be succeeded by Craig Barratt, a semiconductor veteran who joined the board in 2025, as part of ongoing governance updates supporting CEO Tan’s strategic restructuring.