BIOGRAPHY
Dr. E. Steve Putna, a pioneering figure in the semiconductor industry, has been appointed as the inaugural director of the Texas A&M Semiconductor Institute, commencing his role on July 1, 2024. He also holds a prestigious appointment as a Visiting Professor of Practice in the Artie McFerrin Department of Chemical Engineering at Texas A&M University. This dual role signifies a major advancement in The Texas A&M University System's dedication to semiconductor research, development, workforce training, and industry collaboration.
Dr. Putna's extensive career spans over 25 years, primarily at Intel Corporation, where he honed his semiconductor manufacturing and supply chain management expertise. His diverse experience encompasses technical and financial responsibilities, leading large teams, and driving innovative research projects from concept to implementation.
The Texas A&M Semiconductor Institute emerged in response to the CHIPS and Science Act legislation at both the federal and state levels. The Institute aims to propel the growth and competitiveness of the semiconductor industry by focusing on advanced semiconductor manufacturing technology and promoting workforce development. It serves as a multidisciplinary research organization and a collaborative hub for academic researchers, industry leaders, and government partners to tackle complex semiconductor manufacturing challenges.
Under Dr. Putna's strategic vision, the Institute focuses on conducting cutting-edge research, collaborating with industry partners, securing federal and state funding, and offering education and training programs to cultivate the next generation of the semiconductor workforce. Additionally, the Institute will establish secure semiconductor fabrication capability to support national defense needs and address the critical requirement for U.S. leadership and security in semiconductor manufacturing.
Dr. Putna holds a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Pennsylvania and a B.S. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Texas at Austin. His robust academic background, extensive professional experience, and role as a Visiting Professor of Practice equip him with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead the Texas A&M Semiconductor Institute to a position of global prominence, ultimately strengthening the domestic semiconductor ecosystem.