Vikas Kumar, a Senior Manager in Information Technology and Semiconductor Process Audit at ON Semiconductor, is a prominent figure in materials engineering and semiconductor technology. With a remarkable professional and academic background, Vikas has made significant contributions to the semiconductor industry through his innovative work and leadership.

His journey from a Research Assistant to a Senior Manager has been characterized by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a passion for advancing technology and sustainability. In this exclusive interview, Vikas shares his inspiring career journey, his challenges, and his vision for the future of semiconductor manufacturing.

Could you start by sharing what inspired you to pursue a career in material engineering and semiconductor technology?

I was drawn to a career in materials engineering and semiconductor technology primarily due to these fields’ profound impact on modern technology and sustainable practices. My fascination with how materials can be engineered at atomic levels to improve everything from consumer electronics to renewable energy sources has continually inspired me.

The field’s blend of physics, chemistry, and engineering and the challenges of innovating in fast-evolving environments fuel my passion and curiosity daily. Additionally, the potential to contribute to environmentally friendly solutions and the solid career prospects within tech industries were significant factors in my decision to pursue this path. These elements make every day exciting and rewarding, knowing that my work helps shape the future of technology and sustainability.

Can you describe your journey from your initial role as a Research Assistant to your current position as a Senior Manager at ON Semiconductor?

My journey from an initial role as a Research Assistant to my current position as a Senior Manager at ON Semiconductor has been challenging and immensely rewarding. Starting out, my days were heavily focused on lab work, conducting experiments, and analyzing data, which helped me understand the foundational aspects of material science and semiconductor technology. This hands-on experience was crucial for grasping the complexities of the materials we worked with and their applications in semiconductors.

As I moved up the ladder, transitioning from technical roles to more leadership-oriented positions, I focused on developing my management skills and understanding of the industry’s business aspects. Each new role offered a steeper learning curve, pushing me to adapt and integrate my technical knowledge with business strategy. I learned to lead teams, manage projects, and make decisions aligned with our company’s long-term goals.

As a Senior Manager, I oversee emerging and cyber technology risks, including but not limited to Artificial Intelligence, GenAI, and cyber-attacks on semiconductor manufacturing facilities at ON Semiconductor. My role involves managing these risk-based projects and strategizing for innovation and efficiency improvements. It’s a role that balances technical acumen with strategic oversight, requiring a broad view of both current market conditions and future technological trends. This progression from a hands-on researcher to a leader in the company has been incredibly fulfilling, offering me opportunities to influence key decisions and drive forward the technologies that will shape our future.

What have been some of the most challenging projects you’ve undertaken, and what impact did they have on the semiconductor industry?

Throughout my career, I’ve been involved in several challenging projects, each having a unique impact on the semiconductor industry. One particularly demanding project was developing a new type of low-power, high-efficiency memory device called a Memristor, which is intended for use in next-generation electronic devices. This project required integrating advanced materials with novel manufacturing techniques, and the learning curve was steep. The collaboration across multiple disciplines and the continuous iteration of designs and materials were challenging and exhilarating.

Another significant project was leading a team to improve the yield and performance of semiconductor components used in renewable energy applications, particularly solar panels. This involved enhancing the material properties to withstand variable environmental conditions while maintaining efficiency. The work not only improved the product performance but also reduced the cost of renewable energy technologies, making them more accessible and viable.

Both projects required pushing the boundaries of current technology and involved a high degree of problem-solving and innovation. The impacts were substantial, leading to advancements in how semiconductors are manufactured and used, particularly in consumer electronics and renewable energy.

These experiences shaped my career and contributed to the ongoing evolution and improvement of semiconductor technology, demonstrating its critical role in a wide array of industries.

How have your contributions to companies like Deloitte, KPMG, and Capgemini influenced the semiconductor sector’s process auditing and technology enhancement?

My experience in firms like Deloitte, KPMG, and Capgemini played a pivotal role in transforming my contribution to process auditing within the semiconductor sector. I brought audit methodologies and perspectives that helped semiconductor industries refine operations and align technological advancements with business goals by assessing risks in a timely manner.

My role often involved leveraging my extensive expertise in process optimization, risk management, and strategic consulting to improve operational efficiencies.

In process auditing, I focused on establishing robust audit frameworks that enhanced data integrity and compliance with international standards. This improved product reliability and ensured operational transparency, which is critical in a highly regulated industry like semiconductors.

Regarding technology enhancement, I drove the adoption of cutting-edge technologies within semiconductor manufacturing. This included integrating AI and machine learning for predictive maintenance, utilizing big data analytics to streamline supply chain operations, and implementing advanced ERP systems to enhance production processes. These technological enhancements helped reduce costs, shorten production timelines, and elevate product quality.

As a leader managing global teams and significant projects, what leadership qualities do you think are essential for success in high-tech industries?

As a leader managing global teams and significant projects in high-tech industries, I’ve found that several leadership qualities are crucial for success. Visionary thinking is essential; it allows me to guide my team towards innovative solutions that anticipate market needs. Adaptability is also critical, as it enables me to respond swiftly to the fast-paced changes typical in our industry. Effective communication is key, especially with a diverse global team—it ensures everyone is aligned and collaborative. While I maintain a solid understanding of our technologies to guide and make informed decisions, I also emphasize empathy and emotional intelligence to support and motivate my team. Lastly, decisiveness is vital; making quick, informed decisions is necessary to keep projects moving forward and to instill confidence in my leadership during high-pressure situations. Together, these qualities help me navigate the complexities of the high-tech sector and foster an innovative, supportive work environment.

You have a deep background in microfabrication and characterization techniques. What emerging technologies do you see as game-changers for the future of semiconductor manufacturing?

In my view, several emerging technologies are poised to be game changers for the future of semiconductor manufacturing:

1. Advanced Materials: I see significant potential in new materials such as graphene and carbon nanotubes. These materials could revolutionize semiconductor devices by offering better electrical properties, such as increased conductivity and reduced power consumption, which are crucial for developing smaller, faster, and more efficient devices.
2. Extreme Ultraviolet (EUV) Lithography: This technology is already starting to make a significant impact by enabling much smaller feature sizes on chips than traditional lithography. EUV lithography allows more circuits to be packed onto a single chip, drastically improving performance and energy efficiency.
3. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML): AI and ML are becoming integral in optimizing manufacturing processes, from predictive maintenance to improving yield and quality control. By leveraging AI, we can predict equipment failures before they happen and optimize production processes in real time, leading to higher throughput and lower costs.
4. 3D Printing: Additive manufacturing or 3D printing could transform how semiconductor components are fabricated, particularly for complex parts and prototypes. This technology offers the flexibility to produce small batches of customized parts quickly and cost-effectively, which is particularly valuable for high-performance computing applications.
5. Quantum Computing: Although still early, quantum computing represents a transformative computational power and capability shift. For semiconductor manufacturing, quantum computing could solve complex modeling problems, such as electron behavior in new materials, much faster than conventional computers, speeding up research and development.

These technologies have the potential to advance semiconductor manufacturing processes and redefine the capabilities and applications of semiconductor devices in various industries.

What are some of the biggest challenges facing the semiconductor industry today, and how are you addressing these challenges in your current role?

In my opinion, some of the biggest challenges currently facing the semiconductor industry are:

• Supply Chain Disruptions: One of the most pressing issues has been the fragility of the global supply chain, highlighted by recent disruptions. I’m actively working with our team to diversify our supplier base and develop more robust supply chain strategies, including local sourcing and inventory management improvements, to mitigate these risks.
• Technological Complexity: As devices become smaller and more complex, the manufacturing processes become more challenging. To tackle this, I’m focusing on advancing our technological capabilities through investments in next-generation manufacturing technologies like EUV lithography and exploring innovative materials that can support higher performance at reduced dimensions.
• Talent Shortage: There is a growing need for skilled workers in the semiconductor industry. To address this, I’m involved in initiatives to strengthen our partnerships with universities and technical schools to help shape curricula and create internship programs that prepare students with the specific skills we need.
• Environmental Regulations: Increasingly stringent environmental regulations are prompting the need for cleaner production processes. I am leading efforts to implement more sustainable manufacturing practices, such as reducing waste and energy consumption and integrating more environmentally friendly materials into our processes.
• Market Demand Fluctuations: The semiconductor industry is highly susceptible to market demand fluctuations. In response, I am guiding our team to enhance our flexibility in production capabilities and to better forecast demand to adjust production schedules and inventory levels accordingly.

These challenges are complex in nature and in some cases require extreme measures. In my current role I am currently focusing on addressing challenges related to technology complexity by helping my current organization understand the risks around legacy technology and fostering collaboration between engineering and other business unit. I am also involved in addressing risks around AI and ESG regulations.

Looking ahead, what are your professional goals for the next five years, and how do you plan to achieve them?

Over the next five years, my professional goals are to drive innovation and sustainability within the semiconductor industry while advancing into a more strategic leadership role. Firstly, I aim to lead my team in pioneering the development of advanced semiconductor materials that are more efficient and environmentally friendly. To achieve this, I plan to increase our investment in research and development and strengthen collaborations with leading universities and tech companies.

Additionally, I aspire to enhance our company’s global presence by expanding into emerging markets. This will involve exploring new business opportunities and establishing local partnerships and operations, which will require navigating various cultural and regulatory landscapes. I’m committed to continuous personal and professional development to prepare for a higher leadership role. This includes pursuing advanced management training and staying abreast of industry trends through continuous learning and professional networking. By building on my expertise and leadership skills, I aim to contribute to my company’s success and the broader industry’s advancement towards a sustainable future.

What advice would you give to young engineers who aspire to follow a path similar to yours, especially in such a competitive and rapidly evolving field?

I recommend a multifaceted approach for young engineers aspiring to succeed in the competitive and rapidly evolving semiconductor industry. First and foremost, embrace continuous learning; the field is constantly changing, and staying updated on the latest technologies and industry trends is crucial. Focus on building a strong technical foundation in essential areas such as materials science, electrical engineering, and physics, as deep expertise will enable you to innovate and solve complex problems. Additionally, gaining experience across various aspects of semiconductor manufacturing, from design to production, will give you a holistic view of the industry and help you determine your area of passion. Networking is also key—attending industry conferences, participating in professional groups, and seeking mentorships to build relationships that could lead to future opportunities. Lastly, don’t overlook the importance of soft skills such as leadership, communication, and teamwork, which are vital for managing projects and leading teams effectively. By integrating these strategies, young engineers can build a robust platform for a successful semiconductor career.

From the editor….

Vikas Kumar’s journey in the semiconductor industry is a testament to the power of innovation, perseverance, and strategic leadership. His contributions have advanced the semiconductor technology field and paved the way for more sustainable practices within the industry.

As he continues to push the boundaries of what is possible, Vikas remains a guiding force for future engineers and a key player in shaping the future of technology. Through his visionary approach and dedication, he exemplifies the impact that one individual can have on an entire industry, inspiring the next generation of engineers to pursue their passions and contribute to technological advancements.