In this episode, host Nidhi Arora explores the impact of AI in semiconductor manufacturing with Jon Herlocker, founder of Tignis, Inc. Jon shares his journey from leading a billion-dollar business unit to launching a startup that uses AI, machine learning, and physics to solve challenges like yield issues, high costs, and long time-to-market for new materials. He also offers insights into innovation and securing venture capital.

Jon Herlocker, a former computer science professor, has a strong entrepreneurial background, founding Pi Corporation in 2006 and managing a $1.2 billion business unit at VMware. His current venture, Tignis, reflects his drive to transform industrial processes using advanced technologies.

Discussion Points

• Jon shares his shift from cloud management to using AI in semiconductor manufacturing, with Tignis improving yield, reducing costs, and speeding up material development.
• Jon explains founding Tignis, inspired by cloud automation principles, to address semiconductor yield, cost, and time-to-market challenges with AI-powered solutions.
• Tignis refocused on semiconductor manufacturing due to its high potential and technical demands, after initially targeting broader industries.
• Jon stresses securing a first buyer before product development and Tignis' shift from serving equipment makers to directly addressing manufacturers' needs.
• He discusses raising venture capital, leveraging past successes to minimize risks and ensure product-market fit.
• Jon highlights the importance of passion and perseverance in overcoming personal and technical challenges in complex industries.
• He explores AI's future in industrial settings, including generative AI's potential and the need for an AI-ready data infrastructure in conservative sectors like semiconductors.

Ayna Insights is brought to you by Ayna, the premiere advisory and implementation firm in the industrial technology space that provides transformation and consulting services to its clients. The host of this episode, Nidhi Arora, is VP of Content & Marketing at Ayna The host of this episode, Nidhi Arora, is VP of Business Development & Marketing at Ayna

For More Information

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