"It is very exciting knowing that I'm part of the team developing some of the best and smallest semiconductors in the world." –Stan, CAD Engineer
What do you do in your position?
As a CAD Engineer in the Layout Verification group, I write programs called DRCs (Design Rule Checks) that check the chip layouts for design rule violations. A design rule tells the layout engineer how to draw the different layers required in a semiconductor. Design rules are necessary to make sure the parts will not have defects when they're manufactured. If a layer or group of layers is drawn incorrectly, the programs I write will find the error. For example, if two transistors are drawn too closely together, the DRC program will identify the error in the design so the layout engineer can fix it.
How or why did you decide to enter a technical career?
Shortly after high school, I started studying architecture, but quickly realized it wasn't the career for me. Because I always had an interest in anything electronic, I decided to embark on an electronics career. I joined the United States Air Force and became a radar technician spending five years in active duty and three years in the National Guard. After leaving active duty, I came to work at Micron and started taking classes part-time towards a degree in electrical engineering.
What do you like about your job?
Give an example of an interesting project or opportunity.
What I like about my job is that it is challenging and very interesting. Verifying integrated circuit layouts is a challenge, and I get to take part in trying to constantly improve Micron's design verification process. It is very exciting knowing that I'm part of the team developing some of the best and smallest semiconductors in the world.
What high school courses helped you prepare for your job or
college program?
Looking back at high school, I can see some value in all the classes I took. However, there are a few that stand out as very important: computer programming, algebra, English and typing.
What post-high school education did you pursue?
I received a degree in electronic systems technology from the Community College of the Air Force, and I'm currently taking classes toward a degree in electrical engineering.
What advice would you give a student interested in pursuing a technical career?
Make sure you get good grades in college. You don't need a 3.9 stellar grade point average; just make sure you get more A's and B's than C's.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I enjoy golfing, driving my sports car and reading.
Education: CAD Engineer
The degree typically sought for this position is an Associate of Applied Science in computer-aided drawing.
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