Cross-Cultural Challenges in International Research Collaborations: Insights from Filipino Engineers in Taiwan

After completing a Physics and Materials Science Engineering degree from Ateneo de Manila University, Jethro engaged in a career in the Semiconductor/Electronics industry, working as a Product Engineer with Amkor Technology in the Philippines and Sonion in Vietnam. Inspired by a business trip to the Netherlands, Jethro decided to pursue graduate studies, where he recognized the imperative need for further education to bolster his international competitiveness. Opting for Taiwan, specifically National Chiao Tung University, proved strategic due to the country's prominence in semiconductor technology.

In Taiwan, Jethro discovered an essential center where his interest in the field became mainstream of semiconductor advancements. The vision is built by daily discussions, constant news coverage, and widespread aspirations to work in the semiconductor industry. Choosing National Chiao Tung University over plans for the Erasmus program in Europe was reinforced by the university's solid academe-industry collaboration, not as widespread in European programs.

Jethro's academic journey at National Chiao Tung University was marked by intensive lab work, dedicating much of his time to cutting-edge projects even as a Master's student. Despite the demanding workload, the experience was invigorating, and Jethro consistently engaged in novel pursuits. Supportive lab mates enhanced the collaborative atmosphere, contributing to his overall experience. Winning the first Hult Prize at National Chiao Tung University showcased his ability to articulate compelling arguments and execute ideas beyond the semiconductor domain.

Navigating Taiwan presented challenges, including language and cultural barriers, requiring continuous effort to integrate as a foreigner. Jethro acknowledged prejudices against Filipinos, often stereotyped as factory workers and caregivers. He overcame these challenges through focused work and proactive engagement with Taiwanese colleagues, gradually dispelling stereotypes and fostering mutual understanding.

As a National Chiao Tung University WLab Alumni, Jethro expressed immense gratitude to Prof. Tian Li Wu for providing a conducive environment and valuable guidance during his Master's program. Prof. Wu offered opportunities for international collaborations with entities like IMEC and intern from MIT, enriching Jethro's research experience beyond Taiwan. Although he primarily focused on lab work during graduate school, he also found time for leisure activities, exploring Taiwan's accessible attractions. Recently, he ventured into boxing, with plans to resume, and actively sought participation in a Table Tennis club.

Currently a Product Development Engineer at Nvidia in Taiwan, works on product bring-up from Wafer to CHIP level, contributing to Nvidia's dynamic and fast-paced environment. Despite the demanding workload, he finds excitement in being part of Nvidia's ongoing developments. Notably, he played a role in sustaining production for several Nvidia chips, visited the headquarters in Santa Clara for on-going projects, and was featured in Pinoy Scientist, an Instagram account highlighting Filipino scientists and engineers to promote STEM in the Philippines.

Being in Taiwan, the heart of semiconductor technology is crucial for Jethro. The industry news is available in Mandarin in Taiwan days before it reaches the US, emphasizing the country's central role in the semiconductor field, which he sees as vibrant, dynamic, and far from stagnant. In essence, Jethro's journey embodies a seamless blend of academic excellence, professional growth, and cultural integration, reflecting his adaptability and commitment to the ever-evolving world of semiconductor technology.