Lisa Su, the groundbreaking leader of Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), has solidified her place in history as the first woman to helm the company and the first woman to lead a major semiconductor firm. Since taking over as CEO in 2014, Su has been credited with transforming AMD from a struggling competitor into a powerhouse in the semiconductor industry.
Born in Taiwan in 1969, Su moved to the United States at the age of three and grew up in New York. Her academic journey led her to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where she earned both undergraduate and graduate degrees in electrical engineering, including a PhD.
Before joining AMD in 2012, Su built an impressive career working for some of the industry’s biggest names, including Texas Instruments, IBM, and Freescale Semiconductor. Her expertise and strategic vision helped pave the way for her eventual leadership role at AMD.
Under Su’s guidance, AMD rebounded from financial losses and declining market share to become a formidable force in the semiconductor sector. Her leadership has not only restored the company’s profitability but also positioned it as a key player in the global technology landscape.
Su’s contributions to engineering and business have earned her widespread recognition. She is a member of the National Academy of Engineering, the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, and a fellow of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers.
In 2024, Time magazine honored Su as CEO of the Year and included her in its list of the 100 most influential people in the world. These accolades underscore her remarkable achievements and lasting impact on the industry.
As a trailblazer in technology and leadership, Lisa Su continues to inspire a new generation of engineers and business leaders, proving that vision, determination, and expertise can redefine an industry.
