GTI @ San Jose State University

November 9, 2026 1:30 PM - 5:15 PM PST

Location:

Diaz Compean Student Union
Student Unions Rooms 1 – 4
San José State University
One Washington Square
San José, CA 95192

The Technology Powering What’s Next

Join the Global Semiconductor Alliance (GSA) and San José State University for an inside look at the semiconductor industry and the technologies shaping its future.

Hear directly from professionals at Applied Materials, Siemens EDA, Cadence, and SanDisk as they explore emerging technologies, real-world engineering challenges, and the many career paths across the semiconductor ecosystem. Discover what different technical roles involve, how your academic background can translate into an industry career, and the skills and experiences that can help you get started.

The program includes a keynote, an interactive panel discussion, and a networking session where students can connect directly with industry professionals, ask questions, and explore career opportunities.

Register

Agenda

Check In and Tech Challenge

Check in and put your knowledge to the test with Astera Labs! Join a fun, interactive challenge, explore semiconductor technology, and compete for prizes.

Keynote – What’s Next in Semiconductors – and the Work Behind It

Join Dennis McHaffie, Vice President of Operations at Applied Materials and SJSU alum, for a look at where the semiconductor industry is headed, the technologies and challenges shaping its future, and the people and skills behind the progress.

Panel Discussion – Finding Your Path in Semiconductors

Hear from industry professionals about what their work involves, how they found their career paths, and what they wish they’d known as students. Explore different technical roles, learn which skills matter, and bring your questions for the conversation.

Sushma Chandrasekaran, Strategic Account Director – Siemens
Umama Oishi, Application Engineer – Cadence
Lito De La Rama, Senior Director Technology Development Engineering – Sandisk

Networking with Industry Professionals and Refreshments

Meet representatives from leading semiconductor companies and learn more about their technologies, engineering roles, and career opportunities. This informal networking session gives students the chance to ask questions, make connections, and explore internships and full-time career paths across the semiconductor industry.

Participating Companies