Celebrating New Connections - Meet Jimmy Haight ????

If you've attended our TechCon conference, you’ve likely met Jimmy Haight in the Exhibit Hall representing Semicore. Last year, however, he took on an even bigger role as a moderator??? at the Technology Forum Breakfasts (TFBs).

The TFBs are a fantastic opportunity to kickstart your day with insightful discussions, valuable networking, and great food???. These forums offer a chance to hear from industry experts on the latest technological advancements while enjoying a good cup of coffee or tea. The informal setting encourages open conversation, making it easy to exchange ideas, brainstorm solutions, and connect with like-minded professionals.

Whether you're looking for fresh perspectives, practical advice, or simply a way to stay informed, the TFBs provide a perfect blend of knowledge-sharing and community-building.

Jimmy’s role as a moderator allowed him to bring his deep industry experience to the table, facilitating dynamic discussions that sparked new ideas and fostered collaboration. His passion for technology and his commitment to advancing the field made him a natural fit for this role.

SVC: When did you first learn about the SVC and the Technical Forum Breakfasts (TFB)??

Jimmy: I think I heard about the SVC about 16 years ago. I had been involved in the AVS and SEMI societies so I was naturally interested when I heard of the SVC. As for the TFBs,??I know I heard about them at least a couple of years ago, but I never realized exactly what they were until last year. ?As an Exhibitor, I had thought they were geared for TechCon attendees as part of some of the more formalized programs.

SVC: What was your first experience at TechCon like, and what were your initial impressions?

Jimmy:?I can’t really remember my first TechCon but I do remember thinking it was similar to the National AVS Expo but with focus coatings, which was a great fit.?

SVC: What motivated you to take on the role of a moderator for the TFB??

Jimmy: Frank Zimone had reached out to me last year asking if I would like to participate as a co-moderator at the 2024 TechCon in Chicago .?He explained that was not a “talk” but a conversation with the participants. I found that intriguing.

SVC: In what ways does your experience at Semicore influence your role as a TFB moderator?

Jimmy: These days, my focus is in the technical sales area. I came from equipment engineering and support before that. I did this at Semicore since 1998 before moving to sales in 2014. So having the “hands-on” background, then moving into helping develop configuration solutions for our customers, gave me a new perspective. I was an end user, then a support role, then development, then sales. I believe that enables me to contribute, in some way, to many aspects of this industry.

SVC: Can you describe a key moment in your career that has shaped your current path?

Jimmy:?This is my second career. I started in an entirely different industry out of school. I was excited and thought it would be my future until retirement. However, only a couple of years in, I was laid off due to military base closures. I was offered an opportunity to move from southern California to Silicon Valley (San Jose, CA) to start over in the semiconductor industry. I found this to be more interesting and challenging. This was technology I had never heard of. It was science fiction for me. 32 years later, it still is. The technology continuing to be developed pushes not only boundaries but imaginations.

SVC: What challenges have you encountered in your field, and how did you address them??

Jimmy: Being asked to integrate more and more features and technology into traditional PVD systems is always challenging. We work with the manufacturers of the technology and the customer to develop the best integration design for maximum performance without sacrificing other aspects of the process. The collaborative effort fosters innovation.

SVC: What excites you the most about the future of the TFB?

Jimmy:?Meeting more industry colleagues and learning about new technologies.

SVC: How do you manage to balance your professional responsibilities with your personal life??

Jimmy: That is a regular battle. There are times when I spend many more hours than I should “working”. However, when the time comes when there is a lull in the demand and I can catch up a little, I try to take advantage of it and pull back on the workday(s) to spend the time with my family. Sometimes, they can overlap. During the last TechCon in Chicago, my colleague and I brought our wives with us. We would go out in the evenings to take in the city together.

SVC: Are there any upcoming projects or goals you’re working on within the TFB that you can share??

Jimmy: After attending/co-moderating my first one, I am planning to attend more of them during future conferences and possibly co-moderate more than one.

SVC: What advice would you offer to someone just starting out in your field??

Jimmy:

1. Find a mentor. Maybe even two, but not more than two at one time. I believe we should always have a mentor and be mentoring someone. Even in our personal lives.
2. Never be afraid to ask questions. Smart people tend to like to share their knowledge.
3. Always look for something new to learn. Never get comfortable or settled into where you are. You never want to arrive at a “destination”.

Discover More About Jimmy: His Passions, Hobbies, and Beyond

?? Favorite Hobby:

• Tinkering

?? Favorite Movie:

• Back to the Future

?? Favorite Book:

• "I can’t pick just one"

?? Go-to Podcast:

• "I don’t do many podcasts. I do a fair number of audiobooks, however. From novels to documentaries to skill development."

?? What's Playing on Your Playlist:

• Red

?? Interesting Fact:

• I died… twice. As a child, I went into cardiac arrest and flat-lined due to severe illness on two occasions but was revived both times (if that wasn’t obvious).

?? Proudest Achievement:

• It is hard to find something that tops raising children with my wife.

Ultimately, surrounding yourself with exceptional people is key. Four years ago, Jimmy shared an insightful post made by Matthew M. Hughes, that perfectly illustrates the values driving Semicore. This post highlights the strength in creating technology that endures. In a fast-paced world where everything is quickly consumed, it’s a reminder of the importance of investing in what lasts. When you dedicate yourself to the work, you can truly elevate your life.

Keep Learning, Keep Growing????

At the end let’s take a moment to celebrate some exciting news and fresh connections! ??? We’re thrilled to announce that our LinkedIn community grew by an incredible 2,000+ followers in October! ??

This milestone highlights the power of connection and the impact of sharing ideas in today’s digital world. Maybe there’s something to that TikTok #OctoberTheory after all! With just 77 days until New Year’s Eve, it’s the perfect time to set new goals and make the changes you’ve been dreaming of. ????

In the spirit of growth, Jimmy has shared some inspiring advice for aspiring professionals. He believes in finding a mentor, staying curious, and never being afraid to ask questions. “Mentorship is invaluable - even beyond the workplace,” he says. Embrace learning as a lifelong journey, and always seek opportunities for growth. ????

Thanks for joining us, and stay tuned for more inspiring stories from the SVC community!