From Summer Job to Director of Operations

At TTM, we are inspiring growth and innovation in everything we do — and we believe that starts with our people. Great companies are built by great people, and great people are built by the opportunities given to them. We sat down with one of our own to hear their story firsthand.

Q: How did your career at TTM begin?

It actually started as a summer job back in 2003. I never expected it to turn into what it has become. I came in as an entry-level team member in the Quality department, learning the basics: inspections, rework operations, and filling in as a backup lead when needed. It was hands-on, demanding work, but it gave me a foundation I still rely on today.

Q: What did your growth look like in those early years?

After two years in Quality, I moved to the Soldermask department, and that's really where my mindset took shape. I earned certifications across every process, became a certified trainer, took on backup lead responsibilities, and qualified as a preventative maintenance technician. In 2008, that work ethic paid off with a promotion to Lead.

Q: How did TTM support your development into a leadership role?

TTM's tuition reimbursement program was a game changer for me. It gave me the opportunity to take management courses at college, which helped me build business acumen and understand the people side of running a team. I also earned my IPC trainer certification, which deepened my technical knowledge of how printed circuit boards are built. TTM gave me the tools, I just had to put in the work.

Q: Tell us about your move into the Business Unit Manager role.

In 2016, I became Business Unit Manager overseeing Soldermask, Automated Optical Inspection, Finishing, and Via Fill. It was a big shift where it was more about empowering my team. I focused on cross-training line operators, leads, and supervisors, developed structured training plans, and became a certified master trainer in people management. The challenges in precision manufacturing are constant, but working alongside a team that truly embodies 'One TTM' made every obstacle worthwhile. I also had incredible mentors throughout this time who helped shape me into the leader I am today.

"Working with a team that carries the legacy of 'One TTM' has been one of the greatest experiences of my career."

Q: And now you're Director of Operations — what does that role look like?

Since January 2025, I've been focused on the bigger picture: identifying what's driving low yields, leading root cause analysis, and making sure my teams have the training and certifications they need to succeed. It's strategic and operational at the same time.

Q: What would you say to someone considering a career at TTM?

After 22 years, I can say with confidence that TTM invests in its people. The tuition reimbursement, the mentorship, the opportunity to grow from within — it's all real. 

Stories like this one are a reminder that careers aren't always planned — sometimes the right opportunity at the right company makes all the difference.

Interested in building your career at TTM? Visit our Careers page to explore open opportunities.