What is it like to work in the changing exciting world of the global Semiconductor Supply Chain?

Candace Crawford is a third-generation semiconductor employee as both her mother and grandmother worked for Motorola. Candace has worked in the semiconductor industry for over twenty-five years and has expertise and experience in commodity management, supplier relations and contract negotiation. In this article, she shares her career story and focuses on how supply chains and field service engineering interact. Most recently, she was the Senior Global Sourcing Manager for NXP Semiconductors.

Spotlight on the global Semiconductor Supply Chain – one woman’s story

Background

What sort of technical things interested you as a child?
As a child, I was fascinated by the world of technology. I vividly remember the excitement of our first home computer, an Apple Macintosh Plus, which sparked my interest in writing short stories. The Nintendo NES was also a big deal; getting together with friends to play Super Mario Bros during hot Arizona summers.

Looking back, which toys or hobbies indicated your future career?
As a child, I was quite the organiser; I enjoyed setting up cities for my Barbies and managing ‘inventory’ for my toys. I also developed an interest in sports, which required collaboration, discipline, and strategic thinking. These early experiences undoubtedly laid the groundwork for my career, where attention to detail, strategic planning, and effective communication are key.

Were there family members, friends, or teachers who influenced your study choice?
My parents were strong supporters of my decision to study Supply Chain Management, even though the name was relatively new at the time. Previously, the degree had been known as Purchasing and Logistics Management, so many people weren’t familiar with the new terminology. Their encouragement and belief in the importance of this field played a significant role in my decision.

Why did you choose Supply Chain Management for your first degree?
I selected Supply Chain Management because the field is incredibly dynamic and offers roles in various sectors, including manufacturing, retail, healthcare, and technology. Supply Chain Management professionals can work in procurement, logistics, inventory management, and demand planning. Supply Chain Management also allows for global career prospects, as supply chains often span across different countries and continents. This provides the opportunity to work with diverse teams and understand different markets and cultures. By choosing Supply Chain Management, I positioned myself in a field that is essential to the success of businesses worldwide and provides numerous opportunities for career advancement and specialisation.

A career in semiconductor supply chain

Can you summarise your career so far?
Over the past 25 years, I have built a diverse and progressive career in logistics, planning, and Supply Chain Operations, culminating in extensive experience in procurement with progressively higher levels of responsibility.

Why did you decide to join Intel?
I’m a third-generation semiconductor employee. My grandmother and mother both worked for Motorola while I was growing up and that had a big impact on my decision to enter the semiconductor industry when I graduated from Arizona State University.

Managing a semiconductor supply chain and how it impacts on field and service engineering

How do global supply chains impact on field service engineering?
Strong global supply chains helps field and service engineering by providing timely resources, controlling costs, maintaining quality, managing risks, and encouraging innovation.

For you what have been the challenges of working globally?
Working globally presents several challenges; time zones and cultural differences have been the ones that I have personally encountered the most.
Why has working in a global industry been exciting?
Working in a global industry has allowed me to encounter diverse perspectives and has given me opportunities to travel to different countries.

Women in engineering

You are working in a male dominated industry. How do you find this? How do you think it will change over the next ten years?
This has been the norm for me for the last 25 years, but I’m encouraged to see more women joining the industry as education and STEM programmes are reaching more girls and young women. While there is still a gap to bridge, I believe we will continue to see more women gravitating toward semiconductor careers in the future.

What needs to be done to encourage more women to consider a career in science and engineering including the semiconductor industry?
Increased awareness of gender diversity and inclusion, leading to stronger advocacy for women in the industry. Likewise, as more women achieve leadership positions and excel in their careers, they serve as role models and inspire others to pursue similar paths. Increased representation of women in senior roles can help break down stereotypes and encourage more women to enter and succeed in the semiconductor industry.

What would you say to a woman who is considering working for a semiconductor company?
Joining the semiconductor industry can be incredibly rewarding. It’s a dynamic field driving technological advancements. While traditionally male-dominated, there’s a growing focus on diversity and inclusion, making it a supportive environment for women. Your unique skills will be valued, and you’ll have opportunities for growth and collaboration with top professionals. Stay confident, seek mentors, and share your ideas—your contributions can shape the future of technology.

Global supply chain and field service engineering

What are your tips for field service leaders on managing costs?
My top three tips are as follows.

Efficiency

Efficiently schedule and route technicians to minimise travel time and fuel costs.

Regular Maintenance

Implement regular maintenance programmes to reduce costly emergency repairs and extend equipment life.

Inventory Levels

Maintain optimal inventory levels by tracking usage patterns and forecasting demand to avoid over/understocking.

How do you think global sourcing and global supply chain is going to change and develop over the next ten years?
Over the next ten years, global sourcing will see increased automation and AI, driving efficiency and proactive solutions. The focus on sustainability will grow, with companies prioritising environmentally friendly practices. Geopolitical tensions may lead to more regionalised supply chains, improving resilience and reducing reliance on distant suppliers.

Further information

The importance of successful Operational Management of Field Service

Advice For Women Engineers Working In Gender Imbalanced Teams