Asif Chowdhury stands as outstanding figure in the semiconductor industry, recognized not only for his extensive experience but also for his visionary leadership. With over 30 years in the outsourced semiconductor assembly and test (OSAT) sector, Asif has carved out a unique niche, influencing the back-end semiconductor landscape in the United States, Japan, Korea, and Singapore.
Currently serving as the Senior Vice President of Sales for the Asia-Pacific (APEC) region at Amkor Technology, Asif plays a pivotal role in steering one of the world’s leading companies in advanced semiconductor packaging technology. Amkor, the only U.S.-based semiconductor back-end assembly and test company, has benefitted significantly from Asif’s strategic acumen, spending an equal proportion of his time in Singapore, Japan, and the USA to maintain a global perspective.
Asif’s career trajectory is a testament to his dedication and expertise. He began his journey at Amkor Technology in Texas as a Design Engineer and quickly ascended the ranks, ultimately becoming Vice President of the company’s largest business unit. His leadership was instrumental in establishing the outsourcing trend for semiconductor assembly and testing in Japan during the late 1990s, collaborating with industry giants such as Toshiba, SONY, NEC, and Panasonic. Notably, he facilitated the inception of the first joint-venture semiconductor back-end manufacturing site between a U.S. and a Japanese company in northern Japan.
Before his current role at Amkor, Asif held key positions at United Test and Assembly Center in Singapore, where he led global marketing and business units. His experience also extends to Analog Devices in Boston, where he managed the back-end MEMS (Micro Electro-Mechanical Systems) group. His diverse background equips him with a holistic understanding of both the technical and business aspects of the semiconductor industry.
Asif’s academic credentials further enhance his profile. He holds a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Texas at Arlington and Southern Methodist University, respectively. Additionally, he has earned a Master of Science in Finance and an MBA from Northeastern University in Boston. His rigorous education has provided him with a solid foundation to tackle the complexities of the high-tech world.
Beyond his professional achievements, Asif is an avid writer and thinker, with a keen interest in history, culture, and politics. His passion for writing has seen him contribute to various newspapers, magazines, and semiconductor trade journals. He is a regular contributor to “Living in Singapore,” a bi-monthly magazine published by the American Association of Singapore. His literary pursuits culminated in the publication of his first book, “A Gaijin Sarariman,” released by Penguin-Random House in 2022, which explores the intricacies of Japanese work culture.
Asif’s personal life reflects a balance of ambition and family values. He is married to Sharmeen Chowdhury, a doctor and amateur artist, and together they have two accomplished children. Their daughter, Farhana, has earned her Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Purdue University and works for Rolls-Royce North America, while their son, Rayan, is pursuing his degree in mechanical engineering at the University of Colorado, Boulder.
One of Asif’s most ambitious goals is to establish high-tech semiconductor back-end manufacturing technology and industry in Bangladesh. As global attention shifts towards Asia as a key manufacturing hub for semiconductor assembly and test, Asif envisions leveraging his expertise to contribute to the growth of this vital sector in his home country.
In addition to his professional and personal pursuits, Asif enjoys flying and holds a private pilot’s license, showcasing his adventurous spirit and zest for life.
Asif Chowdhury’s journey is not just a story of professional success but also a narrative of passion, dedication, and a commitment to fostering innovation in the semiconductor industry. His vision and leadership continue to inspire many, paving the way for future advancements in technology and manufacturing.
