Rick Wallace is the President and CEO of KLA, a leading company in the semiconductor equipment and materials industry. With a career spanning over 30 years at KLA, Wallace has held various management positions and played a significant role in the company's strategic direction and growth. He holds a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering from the University of Michigan and a master's degree in engineering management from Santa Clara University.
Who is the CEO of KLA?
As the President and CEO of KLA, Rick Wallace has made a significant impact on the company and the semiconductor equipment industry. With over 30 years of experience, Wallace began his career at KLA Instruments in 1988 as an applications engineer and has since held various general management positions.
In addition to his role at KLA, he has served on the Proofpoint Board of Directors and held positions on the Board of Directors of SEMI (Semiconductor Equipment and Materials International), including a term as SEMI's Chairman of the Board.
Work History
- KLA, President and CEO: 2006 - Present
- Marvell Technology, Board Member: 2024 - Present
- Splunk, Board Member: 2022 - 2024
- Proofpoint, Board Member: 2017 - 2021
- NetApp, Board Member: 2011 - 2019
- Silicon Valley Leadership Group, Board Member: 2011 - 2015
- SEMI, Board Member: 2005 - 2014
- Beckman Coulter, Board Member: 2009 - 2011
- KLA, Various Positions: 1988 - 2005
- Cypress Semiconductor, Lithography Engineer: 1984 - 1987
- Procter & Gamble, Engineer: 1982 - 1984
Education History
Rick Wallace's educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (BSEE) from the University of Michigan, which he obtained between 1978 and 1982. Following this, he pursued a Master of Science in Engineering Management (MS Eng. Management) at Santa Clara University from 1984 to 1989. These degrees have provided him with a strong foundation in both engineering and management, contributing to his successful career in the semiconductor equipment and materials industry.
When did Rick Wallace join KLA?
Joining KLA in 1988, Rick Wallace has been an integral part of the company for over three decades. He started as an applications engineer and held various management positions before becoming the President and CEO in January 2006. With his extensive experience and leadership, Wallace has contributed significantly to KLA's growth and success in the semiconductor equipment and materials industry.