Owen Law was inspired by the practical and theoretical balanced mechanical engineering education at VTC and has continuously pursued further studies in his spare time. He has now become a registered engineer with a Ph.D. in mechanical engineering. With twenty years of experience in the semiconductor industry, he has mastered the interdisciplinary application of technology. Currently, he works as the Chief Engineer at the semiconductor manufacturer Nexperia, focusing on chip packaging design. Owen constantly pushes the boundaries of his field, develops high-tech products, and challenges himself.
Interest sprouts for advancement in Engineering
Throughout his childhood, Owen delighted in hands-on assembly of components and had a profound interest in mechanical engineering. Despite facing financial constraints in his early years, Owen was fortunate to have access to vocational and professional education and training at VTC when the government facilitated broader access to higher education. Tailoring his skill development to align with his passions sowed the seeds for his personal growth and fostered him thrive in the profession. Upon enrolling in the Higher Diploma in Mechanical Engineering at IVE, he experienced a parallel emphasis on theory and practical application. While majoring in mechanical engineering, his final year project required him to use computer programming skills to control the operation of electronic machinery for product manufacturing. This exposed him to the realm of mechatronics technologies and applications, equipping him with interdisciplinary practical skills that would prove invaluable for his future endeavors.
The final year project at that time introduced the concept of artificial intelligence simulation, demonstrating foresight by teaching students on predicting object trajectories through data analysis of factors such as colors, boundaries, etc. Looking back on those days, Owen recalled, "Our teachers taught us how to utilise image analysis to locate the green ball on the grass field." He also valued his practical experience during summer internships, where he applied his professional knowledge and skills at work for the first time, benefiting greatly from the generous guidance of his teachers and mentors. Upon graduation, they prepared recommendation letters and introduced work opportunities for Owen, assisted him in smoothly entering the workforce so that he could enhance his knowledge in mechanical engineering and complete his bachelor's and master's degrees. He expressed gratitude for their unwavering support. Understanding that blessing is not guaranteed, he was determined to seize every opportunity for personal growth.
Professional breakthroughs and striving for excellence
As a newcomer to the semiconductor industry, Owen delved into work on ASM chip packaging. He designed machinery for chip packaging to produce chips for various electronic products. Confronted by innovative and intricate challenges, he felt well-equipped to address these challenges confidently. Owen mentioned that his time in the Higher Diploma programme had familiarised him with the application of diverse knowledge and skills, establishing a robust educational groundwork for him. The landscape of electronic product innovation evolves rapidly. Owen remains committed to driving technological progress and achieving breakthroughs, particularly in overcoming challenges related to small form factors, multifunctionality, high efficiency, increased yield, and compatibility. Therefore, he persistently pursued further education in his spare time, culminating in the attainment of a Ph.D. in mechanical engineering. Despite his demanding schedule, he appreciates the opportunity to acquire new knowledge and practically implement it in product development.
As the saying goes, "It takes ten years to grow a tree but a hundred years to nurture people.” The seeds sowed in the past have sprouted with a solid foundation. Currently, Owen works at Nexperia as a Principal Modelling Engineer in chip packaging design. Leveraging his extensive experience and expertise in new technologies, he employs artificial intelligence to estimate product performance and conduct Multiphysics simulations, minimising the necessity for physical testing models. This approach notably shortens product development cycles and costs, resolving potential issues in products at an early stage. Owen also utilises computer simulation to prevent electronic corrosion, thereby enhancing product quality. Being a chip designer, he views the challenge of balancing customer requirements, ensuring consistent product quality across all suppliers and staying ahead of market trends in the shortest time possible. Owen emphasises that with the advancement of technology, engineers must embrace flexible design thinking, reduce development expenses, mitigate production risks, and maintain product competitiveness throughout its lifecycle to seize market opportunities.
Gratitude and support for the younger generation
As the seeds planted in the past have blossomed beautifully, Owen remains ever thankful for the mentors who selflessly supported him along his life's journey. Therefore, upon gaining the ability to give back, he embraced the spirit of "sharing flowers so their fragrance might linger" and actively supporting educational causes in his spare time. He serves as a member of the school management committee of three kindergartens, nurturing young children with love. He also guides emerging talents with care, passing on knowledge and experience, influencing lives with his own life.
Owen advises aspiring fellows looking to enter the mechanical engineering industry to explore their interests early on. Once they define their goals, they should persist diligently, invest time in exploration, and exhibit patience. He believes that their future careers will undoubtedly flourish like a blooming garden, vibrant and dazzling.
