In 12th standard, I had the chance to work on a year-long Nanotechnology project at the Institute of Materials Research and Engineering in Singapore, and I thoroughly enjoyed working on Nanotube fabrication. With a desire to explore this field further, I got admitted to National University of Singapore, where I pursued my bachelors in Materials Science and Engineering.

During my university days, I took courses in semiconductor device physics, materials structures and properties, etc., and did two-year-long lab projects to work on solar cell technology and an interesting game design project. The focus on industry-relevant courses and extensive lab experience helped me land a job in the largest Semiconductor Manufacturing Plant in Singapore.

After graduating, I started to work in the Failure Analysis Lab in the semiconductor company. It was a great hands-on experience in the industry, as I was getting an insight into the physical structures of semiconductor devices at a nanometer scale. Using Scanning Electron Microscopes, Tunnelling Emission Microscopes etc. was a rare chance to work with cutting edge equipment.

After two years in the Failure Analysis Lab, I changed roles to my current job of Yield Analysis Engineer. One of the perks of an engineering degree or job is the transferable skills that we acquire over the years, so I was keen on applying myself in a different role to pick up new skills of data manipulation, statistical inferences and presentation skills.

I spend a lot of time pulling, sorting, filtering and analysing data. The Semiconductor industry is at the forefront of industry 4.0, with a ton of advanced AI software and big Data applications. My job is to understand the process, get the right data, and present conclusive solutions to process problems in the manufacturing line.

The advantage of working in a large MNC is the international opportunities and various clubs and activities available for us to explore. In my 4 years, I've been an active contributor to the company's Toastmasters Club, Diversity & Inclusion Committee and I've had the chance to work with colleagues from Italy, USA, Japan, China etc. This results in great internal cross country mobility, and a tightly knit semiconductor industry ecosystem will open you up to many jobs in the industry, across the world. Most of my senior colleagues have shifted through 3-4 semiconductor companies, across various roles from manufacturing to operations to quality and even sales.

The fundamental skills I've picked up in my time at this company, include data analysis, communication and public speaking, leadership, project management and people skills. After 4 years in this company, I have successfully obtained a seat at a top international MBA program, and I'm looking forward to learning more and applying the skills I've picked up.