Could you speak about your career and how it has progressed since graduating from UCLA?
I joined UCLA in 1987 to do a M.S. in EE and then continue for the Ph.D. in EE. I worked then as a PostDoc with Prof E. Yablonovitch on Photonic bandgap. Above all, I met my wife there and had my 2 child at UCLA Hospital. These years at UCLA have been defined by major personal transitions, weather in my eductation or personal life.
Could you speak about your career and how it has progressed since graduating from UCLA?
After UCLA, I had the chance to return to Europe, working as Scientist at CERN, the largest High Energy Physics Lab in the world. I then made a major shift, moving away from basic science to private companies, first IBM, and then Abilis and now AESA as CEO. I strengthened my business skills and entrepreneur spirit, as well as financial acumen, but still in the high tech sector.
What do you think are the most important components for educating students to be culturally competent global citizens, regardless of their major?
Open mind, being curious, ambitious, and not US centric.