Celebrating Women in Technology

By April Arnzen - 2021-03-04

I work with women who inspire me. In honor of International Women’s Day, I want to acknowledge the contributions and dedication of women in the technology field. We all know the names Ada Lovelace and Grace Hopper. Their contributions shaped the technological world. But there are other inventors, and many are right here at Micron.

Creating a space where creativity is encouraged is essential for innovation. Over the course of our 42-year history, Micron has contributed over 44,000 patents. In FY20,136 women were named as inventors on the company’s original patent application filings. Micron’s own Debra Bell and Arzum Simsek-Ege were each recently named on their 50th U.S patent. Let me highlight their contributions!

Being a woman brings Bell a unique perspective

Debra Bell, vice president of DRAM Engineering, is named on 58 U.S. patents, with more in the pipeline. Most of her patents are related to DRAM circuit design and product engineering technologies. The first Micron patent application that listed Bell as an inventor was filed in 2001. “I feel confident that, in a lot of ways, my unique perspective as a woman in a high-tech industry helps my innovation, since that very uniqueness leads to viewing situations and solutions differently,” said Bell.

Debra Bell

It’s about resourcefulness and mindset for Simsek-Ege

Arzum Simsek-Ege, distinguished member of the technical staff for Advanced DRAM Engineering, is named on 54 U.S. patents, with several dozen more in the works. Those patents are related to technology process integration, NAND, DRAM, emerging memories, 5G, AI, security and the medical field. “Resourcefulness is a mindset, an attitude. Start learning more, and more … Because your knowledge, persistence, and intuition are needed to enrich life for all,” said Simsek-Ege.

Arzum Simsek-Ege

These women and countless others throughout Micron are bringing innovation to life and helping us achieve our vision to transform how the world uses information to enrich life for all.

Happy International Women’s Day!

April Arzen portrait image

April Arnzen

April Arnzen is executive vice president and chief people officer at Micron Technology. She also serves as President of Micron's Foundation. She leads Micron’s people strategy with a focus on inspiring a culture that embraces performance, growth and inclusion for our global diverse workforce. Arnzen has led the transformation of many of Micron’s people programs and is passionate about strengthening DEI at Micron and in the communities where we live and work.

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