Lisa Su, Chair and CEO of AMD, shares her inspiring journey from a curious child fascinated by engineering to a leading figure in high-performance computing. She discusses the importance of hands-on experiences and STEM education, and highlights the current groundbreaking innovations in semiconductor technology. Su emphasizes the role of collaboration in both her leadership style and the rapid advancements in AI, painting a picture of an exciting era for hardware that mirrors the early internet days.
Lisa Su's early exposure to hardware sparked a lifelong passion for engineering, shaping her career in semiconductors and technology.
The importance of hands-on learning and collaborative experiences during her education significantly influenced Lisa Su's understanding and appreciation of engineering.
Advancements in AI and semiconductor technology, like chiplets, are paving the way for high-performance computing solutions that enhance hardware-software integration.
Deep dives
Entry into Hardware and Semiconductors
The speaker recounts an early fascination with hardware, sparked by the ability to build and test semiconductors. Observing the construction of chips with a few transistors that could be examined under a microscope left a profound impression. This early interest laid the foundation for a career in hardware and semiconductors. The excitement of seeing technology at such a compact scale is emphasized as a pivotal moment that shaped their professional journey.
Pursuing Electrical Engineering at MIT
The journey into electrical engineering began at MIT, where the prevalence of engineering students influenced a natural gravitation toward this field. Although unsure initially about focusing on hardware over software, hands-on experiences in both domains clarified their passion for hardware. Crucial early engineering experiences, including working with semiconductor devices, solidified this interest and led them to appreciate the practical applications of their studies. This foundational education emphasized that being immersed in hands-on learning environments is vital for developing a robust understanding of engineering.
The Value of a Ph.D. in Semiconductor Technology
The speaker reflects on the significance of pursuing a Ph.D. in semiconductor devices, which involved complex problem-solving and research. This experience taught them how to navigate challenging issues without established solutions, fostering confidence in their contributions to the field. The collaborative nature of graduate studies with peers also enriched the learning process, highlighting the importance of teamwork in overcoming technological challenges. Ultimately, the Ph.D. journey was viewed as a vital foundation for their future leadership and innovation within the semiconductor sector.
Leadership Experiences and Career Progression
Early in their career, leadership aspirations became clear during collaborations that achieved groundbreaking results in technology. The decision between pursuing a high-level technical role or a managerial position prompted reflection on the joy found in team accomplishments. Leading teams through complex projects solidified their desire to foster collaboration and innovation. This understanding of leadership's impact led to growing responsibilities at notable companies, including IBM and eventually AMD.
Exciting Developments in AI and Semiconductor Technology
A transformative period is underway in AI and semiconductor technology, marked by evolving workloads that demand increased computational power. Recent innovations, such as the introduction of chiplets for processors, illustrate the remarkable strides made to overcome limitations in Moore's Law. These advancements enable companies to deliver high-performance computing solutions for AI workloads and maintain competitive advantages. The future promises continued collaboration and exploration of new technologies that will drive computing forward across various applications, enhancing both hardware and software integration.
As Chair and CEO of AMD, Lisa Su leads the transformation of the strategy and product execution of one of the fastest growing semiconductor companies in the world. She’s the recipient of numerous awards, and a recent appointee to the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology. In this episode, she discusses her upbringing as the daughter of a mathematician, her early interest in engineering and figuring out how things work, and why she thinks this is the most exciting time in hardware in recent decades.
