memsstar's new CEO to drive expansion in MEMS markets
memsstar has taken on former company founder, Tony McKie as its new chief executive officer (CEO).
The company is a provider of etch and deposition equipment and technology solutions to manufacturers of semiconductors and micro-electrical mechanical systems (MEMS).
McKie is tasked with capitalising on the company's experience and reputation in the semiconductor and MEMS markets to drive its growth.
"memsstar is poised to take advantage of the significant growth potential of the MEMS and remanufactured semiconductor equipment markets," says Peter Connock, chairman of the board of memsstar.
"Both MEMS and remanufactured equipment are forecast to see continuing growth over the next few years. Tony, with his industry experience and in-depth knowledge of technology, is ideally suited to ensure we maximise our opportunities in these markets. We look to Tony to advance our MEMS technology beyond our present capabilities and drive our efforts to expand our remanufactured equipment and services business," continues Connock.
Europe remains a centre for semiconductor technology development in emerging applications along with the cost-effective manufacture of legacy products, both of which benefit from production-ready remanufactured legacy semiconductor processing equipment - a market poorly supported by conventional suppliers.
Under McKie's guidance, memsstar will expand its portfolio of process capabilities and services to better supply the needs of its customers.
At the same time, single wafer dry release etch is seeing global adoption by the leading advanced MEMS manufacturers to overcome the process challenges associated with traditional wet etch and batch etch processes. memsstar's proprietary sacrificial vapour release etch technology is market-proven and positioned to take advantage of emerging requirements for MEMS manufacturing.
"Tony has been a key resource as the company has developed," comments Andrew Elder, non-executive director representing Albion Ventures. "His extensive knowledge of the industry, together with his vision for ongoing development and expansion, makes him the obvious choice to lead the company through its next stage of growth."
McKie was originally responsible for developing the memsstar range of technology products and managing business development activities for the single wafer release etch platforms. He brings an extensive background in semiconductor equipment manufacturing through prior management roles at Electrotech, Lam Research and Applied Materials.
