What Type Of Person Thrives In The Tech Industry, According To A Vice President At Applied Materials
Mike, a Vice President at Applied Materials, highlights a passion for technology as crucial, stating that even without an engineering background, "there's still lots to be excited about." Success also requires embracing constant change, a high-pressure environment with "a very high standard of performance," and a self-driven ambition to excel.
Passionate about Technology, Adaptable to Change, High-Pressure Tolerance, Results-Oriented, High-Performance Drive
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Mike DeMuro
Vice President, Global Workplace and Infrastructure
Applied Materials
University of Southern California
MBA, Arizona State University (ASU) - W. P. Carey
Economics, Finance
Real Estate, Technology
Strategic Management and Executive
Video Highlights
1. A passion for technology is essential, even if you aren't an engineer. Mike emphasizes the excitement of the industry, regardless of technical expertise.
2. The tech industry demands adaptability. Be comfortable with constant change, fierce competition, and evolving work practices.
3. High performance and a drive to excel are highly valued. The industry is fast-paced, high-pressure, and celebrates those who maintain high standards.
Transcript
Would you describe people who typically thrive in this industry?
In the tech industry, you definitely have to be passionate and interested in technology. I'm not an engineer and not very technically savvy; I studied finance. But I am interested in and passionate about technology and what we enable in the semiconductor industry.
If you're an engineer, there's a lot to be excited about. But even if you're not, there's still much to be enthusiastic about in terms of the industry you're a part of.
You also have to be very comfortable with change. Nothing stays still; competition is fierce, and technology constantly evolves. You have to be willing to adapt. The way you work today will be different tomorrow, and you have to be excited by that, not concerned.
There's high pressure to deliver because the window to stay ahead of technology is very short. You have to keep moving; there isn't much time to relax. It's a high-charge, high-paced environment with a very high standard of performance.
If you naturally hold yourself to a high degree of performance and want to excel, this industry celebrates that. You would thrive here if that's your natural tendency.